There’s something so heartwarming about a big bowl of creamy salmon chowder, don’t you think? It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly day, wrapping you in its rich, comforting flavors. This chowder is special—packed with tender salmon, creamy goodness, and a hint of dill that dances on your taste buds. Every spoonful is a reminder of those family dinners where seafood was the star of the show. I remember sitting around the table, the aroma of fresh salmon wafting through the air, and the laughter of loved ones echoing as we savored every drop.
This creamy salmon chowder comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. Trust me, once you try this comforting dish, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your home just like it is in mine. So grab your pot, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy salmon chowder. Gather these ingredients and get ready for a delicious experience!
- 1 lb skinless and boneless salmon fillet
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious creaminess)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer)
For seasoning, don’t forget:
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dill (fresh or dried works beautifully)
Now, you’re all set! These simple yet flavorful ingredients will come together to create a heartwarming dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Creamy Salmon Chowder
Alright, let’s dive into the steps for making this dreamy creamy salmon chowder. It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary genius by the end of it! Just follow along, and we’ll get this deliciousness on the table in no time.
Step 1: Boil the Base
First things first, grab that trusty pot of yours! Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and toss in the 2 cups of diced potatoes and 1 cup of corn. Now, let’s bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Keep an eye on it and give it a stir every now and then to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. When it starts bubbling away, it’s time to move on to the next step—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
Next, it’s time to elevate your chowder by adding the star of the show—the 1 lb salmon fillet! Gently place the salmon into the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork. Don’t rush this part; you want that salmon to be tender and perfectly cooked. If you’re unsure, just poke it a little—if it feels firm but gives way, you’re golden!
Step 3: Flake and Return Salmon
Once the salmon is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Here’s a little tip: let it cool for a minute, then use a fork to flake it into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial because you want to keep those lovely salmon chunks intact. Once flaked, return the salmon to the pot, making sure to get every last morsel—no need to waste any of that deliciousness!
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasoning
Now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 1 tsp dill (whether fresh or dried). Give it a good stir to combine all those flavors. Let the chowder simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing everything to meld together beautifully. Make sure to mix thoroughly so every spoonful is packed with creamy goodness. You’re almost there!
And just like that, you’ve got a bowl full of creamy salmon chowder waiting for you to enjoy. Trust me, this is going to warm your soul!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! While I can’t give you an exact breakdown because nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, I can share some typical values for this creamy salmon chowder. Each serving generally packs about 350 calories, with around 25 grams of protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. You’ll also find about 18 grams of fat, including some healthy ones from the salmon and cream, and approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates from the potatoes and corn.
Remember, these values are averages, so they might change a bit depending on your personal choices in ingredients. It’s always good to check labels if you’re counting macros or calories closely. Enjoying this chowder is all about balance, so don’t stress too much—just savor every creamy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This creamy salmon chowder comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, with rich flavors that soothe the soul.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of tender salmon, creamy goodness, and fresh herbs creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your creamy salmon chowder turns out absolutely perfect! First, don’t skimp on the heavy cream—it’s what gives this dish that luxurious texture. If you want to lighten it up a bit, you can swap in half-and-half or even whole milk, but I promise the cream is worth it!
Also, I recommend using fresh dill if you can find it. The flavor is so vibrant compared to dried, and it really elevates the chowder. And remember, when you’re cooking the salmon, keep a close eye on it. Overcooked salmon can get dry and tough, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly undercooked since it will keep cooking a bit once you flake it back into the pot.
Lastly, if you love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you stir in the cream—it gives a delightful kick! Happy cooking!
Variations of Creamy Salmon Chowder
One of the best things about creamy salmon chowder is how easily it adapts to your taste buds! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the veggies? Try adding carrots or celery for extra crunch and flavor. You can even toss in some spinach or kale right at the end for a pop of color and nutrition. If you’re a fan of mushrooms, sautéing some before adding them to the pot can add a lovely earthy depth.
Herb-wise, fresh parsley or thyme can bring a delightful twist to the classic dill. And if you want to play with spices, a touch of curry powder can give a unique flavor profile that’s absolutely scrumptious! Don’t hesitate to experiment—your chowder can be as unique as you are!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your creamy salmon chowder experience, consider pairing it with some warm, crusty bread for dipping. A good sourdough or a rustic baguette is perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the chowder beautifully. You could even whip up some simple garlic bread to add a bit of crunch and flavor to your meal. Trust me, these pairings will make your chowder experience even more delightful!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! To store your creamy salmon chowder, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to leave a little space in the container, as the chowder will expand when frozen!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. Simply warm it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to get your desired consistency. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it can heat unevenly. Happy eating!
For more delicious soup recipes, check out this collection of crockpot chicken soup recipes. If you’re interested in the health benefits of salmon, you can read more here.
Creamy Salmon Chowder
Equipment
- Pot
- Stirring Spoon
Ingredients
For the Chowder
- 1 lb salmon fillet skinless and boneless
- 2 cups potatoes diced
- 1 cup corn fresh or frozen
- 1 cup heavy cream for creaminess
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
Seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp dill fresh or dried
Instructions
- In a pot, combine chicken broth, diced potatoes, and corn. Bring to a boil.
- Add the salmon fillet to the pot. Cook for 15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
- Remove the salmon, flake it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and dill. Simmer for 5 more minutes.
Notes
If you loved this recipe, you’ll want to explore more of our easy dinner favorites! Check out our collection of easy casserole recipes for more one-pan wonders, browse these easy chicken breast recipes that transform plain chicken into something amazing, or try our crockpot chicken soup recipes for ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest so you can find it again later, and follow us on Pinterest for hundreds more delicious recipes and meal ideas!