Description
This creamy fish chowder is a comforting, heartwarming dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights. With tender white fish, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, silky broth, it’s a classic recipe that’s easy to make but impresses every time. The blend of fresh herbs, buttery cream, and perfectly cooked fish creates a flavorful, satisfying bowl that’s both hearty and elegant. Serve with crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb firm white fish (cod, haddock, or pollock), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and sauté onions, celery, and carrots until softened.
- Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add milk and cream, stirring to avoid lumps, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add potatoes, thyme, and bay leaf; simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Gently fold in fish pieces and simmer for 5–7 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Remove herbs before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking fish to keep it tender.
- For a lighter chowder, use all milk instead of milk and cream.
- Allow the chowder to rest for a few minutes to let flavors meld.
- Add extra vegetables like corn or leeks for variety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Soup
- Method: Stove-top simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg