Campbell Soup Seafood Chowder Recipe

When you think of comfort food, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is a rich, creamy soup. And when we talk about soups that can warm you up from the inside out, Campbell Soup’s Seafood Chowder is a standout. This classic chowder recipe is a perfect balance of savory, rich, and satisfying flavors. With its combination of tender seafood, creamy broth, and subtle seasonings, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a big hug in a bowl.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or simply craving a cozy meal, this seafood chowder is sure to hit the spot. It’s a soup that brings comfort and a touch of elegance to the table, making it an excellent choice for all occasions. Let’s dive into how to recreate this delicious chowder in your own kitchen!

Campbell Soup Seafood Chowder Recipe

Campbell’s version of Seafood Chowder brings together hearty chunks of fish, succulent shrimp, and a creamy base, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl. The beauty of this dish is that it requires just a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, but the flavor is anything but basic.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make this delectable seafood chowder:

• Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Potato Soup: This forms the creamy base and brings a velvety texture to the chowder.
• Seafood Mix (or Shrimp, Scallops, and Fish): Typically, you’ll use a pre-packaged frozen seafood mix, but you can also use fresh seafood. A mix of shrimp, scallops, and chunks of white fish (like cod or haddock) works beautifully.
• Milk: This helps to thin out the soup and balance the richness of the cream of potato soup. You can opt for whole milk for extra creaminess, or use a lighter milk alternative if you’re looking to reduce fat.
• Butter: A bit of butter adds richness and helps to bring all the flavors together.
• Chopped Onion: The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the chowder.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves of garlic will give the soup a savory kick that complements the seafood beautifully.
• Celery and Carrot: These vegetables contribute texture and freshness, offering a nice balance to the creamy and seafood-heavy elements of the soup.
• Seasonings: You’ll need salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley. A bit of Old Bay seasoning or paprika can add a little extra zing and coastal flavor.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens up the chowder, adding a touch of acidity to balance the creamy texture.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! The method is straightforward and allows for plenty of flexibility if you want to make adjustments or add your personal touch.

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Make sure the veggies are finely diced so they blend smoothly into the chowder.
2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to release.
3. Add the Cream of Potato Soup: Open your can of Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Potato Soup and pour it into the pot. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
4. Stir in the Milk: Gradually add the milk, stirring to incorporate it smoothly into the soup. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the Seafood: Once the soup is simmering, gently stir in your seafood. If you’re using frozen seafood, make sure it’s thawed first. You want to add the seafood towards the end so it doesn’t overcook.
6. Simmer the Chowder: Let the chowder simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the soup is nice and hot. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, or it can become rubbery.
7. Season and Adjust: Taste the chowder and add salt, pepper, lemon juice, and your chosen seasonings. A dash of paprika or Old Bay can enhance the flavors, while fresh thyme or parsley can add a pop of freshness.
8. Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or even a drizzle of cream if you’re feeling indulgent.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a deeper dive into why these specific ingredients work so well together and elevate the chowder:

• Campbell’s Cream of Potato Soup: The creamy, smooth texture of this soup serves as the perfect foundation for a chowder. It’s made to be rich and comforting, and it blends seamlessly with milk to create that creamy, velvety consistency.
• Seafood Mix: The mix of shrimp, fish, and scallops offers an oceanic depth that really makes the chowder feel like a seafood feast. The fish adds mildness, while the shrimp gives a sweet, briny bite. Scallops provide a buttery richness that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.
• Vegetables: The carrots and celery add a touch of sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of the seafood. The onion and garlic introduce aromatic depth, making the chowder more complex in flavor.
• Lemon: The acidity of lemon cuts through the richness of the soup and brings a fresh, bright note that helps lift the heaviness of the dish. It also complements the seafood beautifully, highlighting its natural flavors.

Expert Tips

To make sure your seafood chowder turns out perfect, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Don’t Overcook the Seafood: The key to a tender seafood chowder is avoiding overcooking your shrimp and fish. As soon as they’re opaque and cooked through, remove the pot from heat. Overcooking can result in rubbery, tough seafood.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you find the chowder too thick, you can thin it out by adding more milk or even a bit of seafood stock. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
• Make it Ahead of Time: This chowder actually improves after sitting for a few hours, as the flavors have time to meld together. You can even make it a day ahead and reheat gently before serving.
• Use Fresh Seafood: While frozen seafood works just fine, fresh seafood can take this chowder to the next level in terms of flavor and texture. Just make sure to cook it quickly to preserve the delicate flavors.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of seafood chowder lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations:

• Spicy Seafood Chowder: Add a few dashes of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even chopped fresh chilies for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Chowder: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap the seafood for vegetables like corn, potatoes, and mushrooms. The creamy base will still make a delicious, hearty chowder.
• Add Bacon: For an extra smoky flavor, crisp up some bacon and sprinkle it on top of your chowder before serving. It’s a simple way to add depth and richness.
• Crab Chowder: Instead of a seafood mix, use fresh crab meat for a more indulgent twist. Its sweet, delicate flavor will shine in the chowder.
• Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free take, use a plant-based cream soup (like coconut milk or almond milk) and swap the butter for olive oil or a dairy-free alternative.

Final Words

Campbell’s Seafood Chowder is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re curling up on a chilly night or preparing a comforting dinner for guests, this chowder brings the warmth and satisfaction you crave. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly memorable.