Danielle's Ocean-Inspired Chowder

This creamy chowder is packed with fresh seafood and comforting flavors that bring the ocean straight to your bowl. Perfect for a cozy night in, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.

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TIME50 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 teaspoon olive oil 1 onion, minced 1 quart half-and-half, or as needed 2 cups bar clams, drained with juice reserved 2 potatoes, cubed 2 cups cream-style corn 1 large ear corn, kernels cut from the cob 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes 1 ½ cups water, or as needed sea salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste 1 fresh haddock fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces 2 cups large shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 cup canned lobster meat, with juice

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by melting the butter and olive oil together in a large pot over medium-low heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook it gently until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the flour and whisk it into the buttery mixture to help thicken the chowder. Slowly pour in the half-and-half along with the juice from the drained clams, stirring constantly to keep things smooth.

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Step 2

Once the mixture is nice and creamy, stir in the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese until it melts completely, about 2 minutes. Then add the potatoes, cream-style corn, corn kernels, and cherry tomatoes. If the soup feels too thick, add water a little at a time—about half a cup—until it reaches the consistency you like. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, around 15 minutes.

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Step 3

When the potatoes are ready, stir in the drained clams, haddock, and shrimp. Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes more, just until the fish and shrimp are cooked through. Finally, add the lobster and its juices, warming it just until heated. Taste and season with sea salt and pepper to your liking before serving.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use fresh or properly thawed seafood to keep the best texture and flavor.
- Simmer the chowder gently to avoid curdling the cream.
- Add herbs like thyme or parsley at the end to keep their bright flavor.

Why you’ll love it

This chowder brings the fresh flavors of the sea right to your table. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with delicious seafood. Perfect for a cozy night or impressing guests with something special.

Serving ideas

Serve this chowder with warm crusty bread or oyster crackers. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make a nice light side. A glass of crisp white wine pairs beautifully with the seafood flavors.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring often to prevent sticking. Avoid freezing, as the cream may separate and affect texture.