When the evenings start to cool and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like settling in with a warm bowl of chowder. I remember the first time I crafted my Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder—its rich, aromatic flavors enveloped me like a cozy blanket. The melding of tender, blackened salmon with a creamy, cheesy base creates a comfort food masterpiece that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your soul. What’s more, this dish can be whipped up in under an hour, making it a wonderful solution for those hectic weeknights when you’re craving something hearty without the fuss. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises warmth, flavor, and a little bit of spice—perfect for sharing around the dinner table or savoring all on your own!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder
Comforting warmth: This chowder wraps you in a hug of cozy flavors, perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick and easy: Whip it up in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The blackened seasoning paired with creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste sensation.
Crowd pleaser: Fill your dinner table with satisfied smiles and full bellies; this dish is always a hit!
Versatile options: Substitute salmon for cod or halibut for a different seafood twist, and customize it to your liking! For a delightful side dish that complements this chowder, consider pairing it with Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a complete meal experience!
Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder Ingredients
For the Chowder
• Salmon – Provides a rich flavor and protein; substitute with cod or halibut for a different taste.
• Olive Oil – Aids in cooking the salmon and preventing stickiness.
• Blackened Seasoning – Adds spice and flavor; adjust the amount for desired heat in your Chowder.
• Honey – Balances the spice with sweetness for a delightful contrast.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances the savory base of the chowder; fresh garlic is best for flavor.
• Butter – Used for sautéing and adds richness; vegan butter works for dairy-free diets.
• Onions – Provides sweetness and depth; yellow onions are recommended for their mild flavor.
• Flour – Thickens the chowder; a gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning, allowing the flavors to shine brightly.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a whisper of smokiness to the chowder.
• Dried Thyme – Contributes to the aromatic quality, creating a comforting essence.
• Parsley – Freshens flavor; can be swapped with fresh chives for a similar taste.
• Cubed Potatoes – Adds texture and heartiness to the dish.
• Chicken Stock – Provides a flavorful base; vegetable stock is a great alternative for vegetarians.
• Heavy Cream – Makes the chowder luxuriously creamy; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; frozen or fresh corn work beautifully.
• Sharp Cheddar & Mild Cheddar (or Gouda) – Provides the creamy, cheesy dimension; use dairy-free cheese as needed.
For the Garnish
• Jalapeño Slices – Adds a touch of spice and visual appeal.
• Fresh Thyme Sprigs – For a burst of fresh flavor and garnish.
• Chopped Scallions – Adds a crisp crunch and a mild onion flavor.
How to Make Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder
- Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil, then rub the salmon fillets generously with olive oil, blackened seasoning, honey, and minced garlic. Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until just cooked through, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Chowder Base: In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and diced onions for 1-2 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Incorporate Flour and Seasoning: Sprinkle in flour, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, blackened seasoning, and chopped parsley. Stir well until the mixture is combined and forms a smooth paste.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes and pour in chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Finish the Chowder: Stir in heavy cream, corn, and a mix of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses. Continue stirring until melted and the chowder is creamy. Gently fold in the shredded salmon chunks to combine.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chowder into warm bowls and top with jalapeño slices, fresh thyme sprigs, and chopped scallions. Add crusty bread on the side for extra comfort!
Optional: Drizzle a bit of extra honey on top for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder Variations
Feel free to make this chowder your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
- Fish Swap: Substitute salmon with firm white fish like cod or halibut to change up the flavor profile entirely.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the chowder for extra heat; it adds a delightful crunch and zest. A little heat goes a long way in heightening the dish!
- Dairy-Free: Make it creamy without dairy by using coconut cream and dairy-free cheese. This is perfect for those looking for a vegan twist!
- Veggie Boost: Toss in extra veggies like carrots or celery; they offer additional texture and nutrition, making the chowder heartier. The more colorful, the better!
- Herb Varieties: Experiment with different herbs such as dill or cilantro instead of parsley for unexpected flavor notes. Each herb brings its own unique character!
- Seasonal Flavors: Add seasonal veggies, like butternut squash or sweet potatoes, for a cozy, autumnal twist that enhances the chowder’s warmth.
- Corn Variations: Use roasted corn for a deeper, sweeter flavor, or try black corn for a pop of color! The sweetness complements the savory profile beautifully.
- Cheese Choices: Mix different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for additional flavor layers and a creamy consistency that invites you back for more!
With so many ways to tailor this chowder, your next bowl will always be a new adventure!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder
Fridge: Store cooled chowder in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to prevent the cream from separating.
Freezer: You can freeze this chowder for up to 3 months, but note that the texture may change upon thawing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through to maintain creaminess.
Serving Tip: To freshen the flavors when reheating, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a splash of cream!
Expert Tips for Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder
• Salmon Timing: Avoid overcooking the salmon; aim for slightly undercooked pieces, as they will continue to cook in the chowder.
• Flavor Development: Don’t rush the simmering of the potatoes; this step melds the flavors beautifully, enhancing your chowder.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh herbs and ingredients; they elevate the taste of your Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder immensely.
• Storage Wisely: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days; reheat gently to keep the cream from separating.
• Freezing Notes: While you can freeze this chowder, the texture may change; thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.
What to Serve with Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder?
As you cozy up to a warm bowl of chowder, pair it thoughtfully to complete your meal experience.
- Crusty Sourdough Bread:
The hearty, chewy texture of sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy chowder, soaking up every flavorful drop. - Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
Smooth and buttery, these potatoes add a delightful richness to your meal, enhancing the creamy texture of the chowder. - Fresh Garden Salad:
A light salad bursting with seasonal greens and a tangy vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the rich chowder, refreshing your palate. - Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
Their crispy edges and savory flavor provide a nice crunch, balancing the silkiness of the chowder while making for a nutritious side. - Cornbread Muffins:
Sweet and crumbly, cornbread muffins complement the chowder’s savory taste, creating a comforting, homestyle pairing. - Sparkling White Wine:
A chilled glass of sparkling wine adds an elegant touch, cutting through the richness of the chowder and elevating the dining experience.
Indulge in these pairings and let them enhance your enjoyment of the creamy, luscious flavors in your Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder.
Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder Recipe FAQs
What type of salmon is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, skinless salmon fillets for the best flavor and texture. However, you can also substitute with firm white fish like cod or halibut if you prefer a different taste.
How long can I store leftover chowder in the fridge?
You can store your creamy blackened salmon chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. When reheating, make sure to do it gently on the stove to prevent the cream from separating.
Can I freeze the chowder, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze this chowder for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the chowder to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. For best results, thaw the chowder overnight in the fridge before reheating it gently on the stovetop.
What can I do if the chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! You can simply stir in a little more chicken stock or water while reheating until you reach your preferred consistency.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Very! To make a dairy-free version of the creamy blackened salmon chowder, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. This way, you won’t lose the creamy texture while catering to dietary needs.
What should I do if my potatoes are not cooking quickly?
If your potatoes aren’t tender after simmering, it could mean they were cut too large. Make sure to cut them into small cubes to ensure even cooking. If needed, simply let them simmer a few more minutes until they soften. Don’t rush this step, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Indulgent Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder for Cozy Nights
Equipment
- Oven
- Dutch oven
- Baking Sheet
- Foil
Ingredients
For the Chowder
- 1 lb Salmon or substitute with cod or halibut
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil for cooking
- 2 tbsp Blackened Seasoning adjust for desired heat
- 1 tbsp Honey for sweetness
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic fresh garlic is best
- 2 tbsp Butter or vegan butter for dairy-free
- 1 medium Onion yellow onions preferred
- 1/4 cup Flour can be gluten-free
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1/4 cup Parsley or fresh chives
- 2 cups Cubed Potatoes
- 4 cups Chicken Stock or vegetable stock
- 1 cup Heavy Cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
- 1 cup Corn frozen or fresh
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar
- 1 cup Mild Cheddar or Gouda
For the Garnish
- 1/4 cup Jalapeño Slices
- 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme
- 1/4 cup Chopped Scallions
Instructions
How to Make Creamy Blackened Salmon Chowder
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil, then rub the salmon fillets generously with olive oil, blackened seasoning, honey, and minced garlic. Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until just cooked through, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- In a Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and diced onions for 1-2 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, blackened seasoning, and chopped parsley. Stir well until the mixture is combined and forms a smooth paste.
- Add cubed potatoes and pour in chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Stir in heavy cream, corn, and a mix of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses. Continue stirring until melted and the chowder is creamy. Gently fold in the shredded salmon chunks to combine.
- Ladle the chowder into warm bowls and top with jalapeño slices, fresh thyme sprigs, and chopped scallions. Add crusty bread on the side for extra comfort!
Notes
Nutrition
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