Soul-Warming Hearty Crab & Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Nights

Summers bring a magical charm to seafood corn chowder that beckons with rich, creamy flavors.

Coastal kitchens buzz with excitement when fresh crabs and sweet corn meet in a single pot.

The delicate sweetness of seafood blends seamlessly with kernels of golden corn, creating a symphony of textures.

This chowder carries memories of seaside evenings and lazy afternoon gatherings.

Chunks of tender crab mingle with silky potatoes, offering comfort in every spoonful.

Each serving promises warmth and satisfaction that transcends ordinary meal expectations.

Let this recipe transport you to a culinary journey of coastal comfort and pure deliciousness.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: 350 kcal

Servings: 6

Crab & Corn Chowder Ingredients You’ll Love

• Butter: Adds rich, creamy depth and helps soften aromatics without burning.
• Olive Oil: Enhances cooking temperature and provides subtle fruity undertone.
• Onion: Builds deep, sweet flavor base with natural umami characteristics.
• Garlic: Introduces sharp, pungent aroma that elevates overall dish complexity.
• Celery: Contributes fresh, crisp texture and mineral-like herbal notes.

• Crab Meat: Delivers delicate, sweet ocean flavor and tender protein element.
• Crab Stock or Seafood Stock: Intensifies maritime essence and adds profound marine richness.

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates smooth roux for thickening chowder without lumps.
• Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious, velvety mouthfeel and rich consistency.
• Corn: Adds natural sweetness, texture, and helps create creamy background.
• Milk: Lightens cream's intensity while maintaining silky chowder structure.
• Salt: Balances and heightens all ingredient flavors.
• Black Pepper: Introduces subtle warmth and gentle spiciness.
• Thyme: Offers earthy, herbaceous undertone complementing seafood profile.

How to Make Crab & Corn Chowder From Scratch

• Fire Up the Base

Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, creating a flavorful foundation for your chowder.

• Soften the Aromatics

Toss in diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped celery. Sauté these flavor boosters for 3-4 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.

• Build the Flavor Profile

Sprinkle in flour and stir continuously to create a smooth roux that will thicken your chowder and lock in rich, deep tastes.

• Pour in the Liquid Gold

Slowly add chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps and ensure a silky, creamy texture.

• Introduce the Stars

Fold in sweet corn kernels and let them simmer gently, soaking up all the delicious surrounding flavors.

• Bring in the Ocean's Treasure

Gently add lump crab meat, letting it warm through without breaking apart, preserving its delicate texture.

• Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and a touch of thyme. Let the chowder bubble softly, allowing all ingredients to mingle and create a harmonious dish.

• Final Touch

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve piping hot in cozy bowls that promise comfort and satisfaction.

Flavor Add-Ins for Crab & Corn Chowder Fans

• Texture Trick: For an extra creamy chowder, use an immersion blender to partially puree some of the potatoes, creating a thicker base without losing chunky texture.
• Seafood Swap: Not a fan of crab? Easily substitute with cooked shrimp, diced white fish, or even imitation crab meat for a budget-friendly alternative.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk to make this chowder suitable for lactose-intolerant or dairy-free diets.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of Old Bay seasoning or cayenne pepper for a zesty kick that complements the sweet corn and delicate crab meat.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This chowder tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance and gently reheat before serving.

Best Ways to Serve Crab & Corn Chowder at the Table

• Fresh Seafood Feast: Pair this chowder with a crisp green salad topped with cucumber and lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup.
• Rustic Bread Companion: Serve alongside warm, crusty sourdough or garlic bread to soak up every delicious spoonful of the chowder's creamy broth.
• Elegant Garnish Touch: Sprinkle fresh chopped chives or parsley on top, and add a small dollop of sour cream to enhance the visual appeal and provide a tangy flavor boost.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Complement the chowder with a chilled glass of unoaked Chardonnay or a light Sauvignon Blanc to balance the dish's creamy texture and seafood flavors.

Keep Crab & Corn Chowder Ready for Later

• Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store the chowder in an airtight container, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cool the soup completely before sealing to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
• Freezing Magic: Carefully transfer the chowder to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top. Freeze for up to one month, ensuring a delicious backup meal when you need a quick dinner solution.
• Reheating Pro Tips: Gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency if it seems too thick after refrigeration.
• Batch Cooking Wisdom: Prepare a double batch of this chowder and portion into individual servings. These ready-to-go meals become lifesavers for busy weeknights or when unexpected hunger strikes.

Tools to Help Build the Creamiest Crab & Corn Chowder

• Large Pot: Essential for cooking the chowder, with plenty of space for ingredients.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp blade for precise chopping of onions, garlic, and celery.
• Cutting Board: Sturdy surface for preparing vegetables safely.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring and sautéing ingredients without scratching the pot.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for balanced flavors.
• Ladle: Helpful for serving the creamy chowder into bowls.

Hearty Crab & Corn Chowder Recipe

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4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Creamy crab & corn chowder delivers coastal comfort in a bowl. Sweet kernels and tender crab meat mingle with rich broth, promising coastal warmth when you need a hearty embrace.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 medium russet potato, peeled & diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup crispy bacon bits (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Foundation: Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, creating a flavor-rich cooking base.
2. Aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, and celery until translucent, releasing their intricate flavor profile and building depth.
3. Thickening Agent: Dust vegetables with flour, stirring to craft a golden roux that will provide the chowder’s luxurious body.
4. Liquid Integration: Stream in chicken broth and milk, whisking vigorously to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency without lumps.
5. Vegetable Harmony: Add corn kernels, potatoes, and herbs, allowing ingredients to simmer and meld their essence into the developing broth.
6. Seasoning Layer: Introduce salt, pepper, and thyme, balancing flavors with precision and care.
7. Simmering Stage: Let the chowder bubble gently, stirring intermittently until potatoes become tender and broth reaches a creamy thickness.
8. Protein Finale: Delicately fold in lump crab meat, warming the seafood without disrupting its tender texture.
9. Serving Preparation: Rest the chowder briefly to allow flavors to intensify, then ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chives or parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

• Select Fresh Crab: Choose high-quality, fresh lump crab meat to ensure the best flavor and texture in your chowder.
• Control Roux Consistency: Stir flour carefully to prevent burning, creating a smooth base that thickens without becoming lumpy or grainy.
• Manage Heat Levels: Maintain a gentle simmer to prevent milk from scorching and potatoes from breaking down completely.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Substitute dairy milk with coconut or almond milk for a lactose-free version, and use gluten-free flour to make the recipe more inclusive.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg