Chef Mitchell preparing Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder while exploring the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. It took several attempts to perfect the balance between the spicy chorizo and creamy broth. Each bowl tells a story of warmth and comfort that I love to share with friends and family. This chowder has become a staple in my kitchen, embodying the essence of a flavorful Mediterranean dinner."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, I have developed a passion for creating authentic and delightful dinner recipes. My culinary journey has taken me through various regions, allowing me to blend traditional flavors with modern techniques. I strive to make every dish an experience.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder served on a plate

Why This Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder Recipe Works

This chowder stands out due to its unique combination of spicy chorizo and tender shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. The creamy base complements the spices perfectly, making it a comforting dish for any day. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that is both hearty and satisfying.

The technique of sautéing the chorizo first releases its oils and flavors, which infuse the chowder beautifully. Simmering the ingredients together allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a rich and creamy consistency that is sure to impress. This dish can easily adapt to your preferred spice level, making it versatile for any palate.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the potatoes before adding them to the chowder. This adds a subtle caramelization that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end to ensure a perfect balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chowder ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Just be sure to add the shrimp just before serving to keep them tender.

If you prefer not to use shrimp, you can substitute it with diced firm fish like cod or even chicken, although the cooking times may vary. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, you can use chickpeas or a mix of your favorite vegetables, keeping the chorizo for flavor.

The chowder is done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque, typically after 3-4 minutes of cooking. Additionally, the potatoes should be fork-tender, ensuring they are cooked through. The overall consistency should be creamy and hearty.

Freezing chowder is possible, but the texture may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, do so before adding the shrimp and cream. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, then add the shrimp and cream.

This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A light salad with vinaigrette also complements the richness of the chowder. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a glass of white wine.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder can last in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be sure to reheat thoroughly before consuming. If it has been left out for more than 2 hours, it's best to discard it to ensure food safety.

Absolutely, you can make this chowder in advance. Just follow the recipe, cool it completely, and store it in the fridge. To maintain freshness, consume it within 2 days, and remember to reheat gently before serving.

The best way to reheat the chowder is on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid sticking or scorching. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency while reheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chowder is thicker than desired and lacks moisture.

Solution: Add a little more chicken broth or cream to loosen the chowder. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to incorporate the added liquid.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chorizo isn’t as crispy as preferred.

Solution: Ensure the chorizo is cooked thoroughly in the initial step before adding the other ingredients. Cooking it longer will help achieve that crispy texture.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The shrimp are tough and rubbery.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking shrimp, add them to the chowder last and monitor closely. They only need a few minutes to cook through; remove from heat as soon as they are opaque.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Potatoes are still hard in the chowder.

Recovery: If the potatoes are undercooked, let the chowder simmer longer until they are fork-tender. You can also partially mash them to help thicken the soup.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The ingredients at the bottom of the pot are burning.

Prevention: Make sure to stir frequently while sautéing and adjust the heat to prevent burning. Adding liquid early can help create steam and prevent sticking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to counteract sweetness.

Too Salty: Add a small amount of cream or sugar to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: Increase seasoning with herbs or spices like paprika or cayenne to enhance flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder

Essential Ingredients for Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder

Key ingredients in this chowder include succulent shrimp and flavorful chorizo, which provide a spicy kick. Potatoes add heartiness, while cream gives it a rich and velvety texture. Fresh herbs and spices elevate the dish, making it irresistible.

Using high-quality shrimp and chorizo is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Opt for fresh seafood and artisan chorizo for a more authentic taste. Quality ingredients will ensure a chowder that is both satisfying and delicious.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight sheen. Avoid any that smell overly fishy.
  • Chorizo: Select a high-quality chorizo, preferably Spanish or Mexican. This will impact the overall flavor of the chowder. If you prefer less heat, choose a milder variety.
  • Potatoes: Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamy texture that holds up well in chowder. Avoid starchy potatoes, as they may dissolve too much during cooking.
Cooking process for Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for this chowder is straightforward, starting with sautéing the chorizo for flavor. Adding aromatics like onions and garlic enhances the base, while simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The addition of cream at the end creates a luxurious texture.

To achieve perfect results, monitor the cooking times closely, especially for the shrimp. Keeping the heat moderate ensures ingredients cook evenly without burning. This method results in a chowder that is rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor.

Key Technique for Perfect Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder

The key to a successful chowder lies in the layering of flavors. Sautéing the chorizo first not only renders its fat but also infuses the base with rich flavors. Each step in the cooking process builds upon the last, ensuring a well-rounded and delicious final dish.

Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup flour
    For thickening
  • 1 cup chicken broth
    Low-sodium
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For richness
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
    Fresh or frozen
  • 8 oz chorizo, sliced
    Spicy or mild
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
    For base flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    Fresh is best
  • 2 cups potatoes, diced
    Waxy variety
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
    For sweetness
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
    For the base
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For richness
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    For depth of flavor
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
    Adjust to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    To season
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
    For sautéing
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
    Adds freshness
  • Juice of 1 lime
    For brightness

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Chorizo

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Add Aromatics

    Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Cook Potatoes

    Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

  4. Incorporate Corn

    Stir in the corn, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.

  5. Add Shrimp

    Add the shrimp and cook until they are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

  6. Stir in Cream

    Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Garnish and Serve

    Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. If storing longer, consider freezing it without the shrimp and cream to maintain texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Shrimp Chorizo Chowder in a warm bowl topped with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lime juice. Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this chowder by adding other seafood like scallops or crab. You can also adjust the spice level by including more or less cayenne pepper, or try substituting with smoked sausage for a different flavor.