Are you looking for a comforting and delicious meal to warm up your belly? Look no further than these 20 creamy salmon chowder recipes! Salmon chowder is a classic dish that never goes out of style, and when you add creaminess to the mix, it’s a match made in heaven. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and indulgent, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering recipes.
From classic New England-style chowders to international twists and unique flavor combinations, our list of creamy salmon chowder recipes is sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get cozy, and let us guide you through a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds singing.
Classic New England Salmon Chowder
Experience the comforting warmth of New England with this classic salmon chowder recipe, featuring tender chunks of fish and a rich, creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced potatoes (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 1 cup fish stock or clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until opaque.
3. Add potatoes, fish stock, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder is a perfect blend of smoky salmon, sweet corn, and comforting potatoes. A delightful twist on traditional chowders, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup diced potatoes (about 2-3 medium-sized potatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add corn kernels, diced potatoes, chicken broth, and smoked salmon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Dill Salmon Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillets, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add salmon and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
4. Remove salmon from the pot and set aside.
5. In the same pot, combine heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in chopped dill and season with salt and pepper.
7. Return salmon to the pot and warm through for 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Salmon Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of salmon with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add salmon and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Potato and Leek Salmon Chowder
A hearty and comforting chowder that combines the rich flavors of salmon with the creamy sweetness of potatoes and leeks, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 medium leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped leeks in butter until tender and lightly browned.
2. Add the diced potatoes, fish stock, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
3. Add the salmon fillet and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Salmon Chowder
This creamy and flavorful chowder is a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors with the richness of salmon. A comforting and nutritious meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the coconut oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the salmon and cook until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the coconut milk, fish broth, and grated ginger. Stir to combine.
6. Return the salmon to the pot and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Salmon Chowder
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the rich taste of salmon, creating a comforting and satisfying chowder perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of salmon, drained and flaked
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the flaked salmon, diced potatoes, chicken broth, and milk to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Healthy Kale and Salmon Chowder
This creamy and comforting chowder is packed with nutrients from kale, salmon, and sweet potatoes, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and healthy dinner on the table in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillet on it.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
6. Add the diced sweet potatoes, chicken broth, and roasted salmon. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Salmon Chowder
Warm up with a comforting and flavorful slow cooker salmon chowder that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon (14.75 oz), drained and flaked
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of diced potatoes
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, flaked salmon, diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, and thyme to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Thai-Inspired Salmon Chowder
This creamy chowder combines the richness of salmon with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch. With its blend of spices and herbs, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fish broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon red curry paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 oz salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ginger and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cumin and curry paste; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the fish broth, diced tomatoes, coconut milk, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the salmon pieces and cook until cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Thai basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Salmon Chowder
Start your week off right with this rich and satisfying Cheesy Salmon Chowder, packed with the goodness of omega-rich salmon and sharp cheddar. This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless salmon fillet
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in salmon, cheddar cheese, and half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low; let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Roasted Garlic Salmon Chowder
Roasted Garlic Salmon Chowder Recipe
A rich and creamy chowder that combines the flavors of roasted garlic with succulent salmon, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 4-5 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the garlic cloves in a single layer.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the garlic and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, sauté the chopped onion and diced potatoes in a large pot over medium heat until tender.
5. Add the roasted garlic, fish stock, and heavy cream to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Potato Salmon Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the rich flavor of salmon, all wrapped up in a creamy and comforting broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
3. Add the fish stock, flaked salmon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in half-and-half and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Salmon and Mushroom Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of fresh herbs, succulent salmon, and earthy mushrooms, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the year. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, you’ll want to serve it up again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; place salmon fillet on it.
3. Roast salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil over medium-high heat until tender.
5. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot; stir to combine.
6. Flake roasted salmon into the pot; simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Pepper Salmon Chowder
Brighten up a chilly day with this refreshing and flavorful chowder featuring succulent salmon, zesty lemon, and a hint of pepper.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, cooked and flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in lemon zest, black pepper, and cooked salmon.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Salmon Chowder
This hearty and flavorful chowder is a perfect comfort food dish, packed with tender salmon, potatoes, and vegetables, all cooked in one pot. Serve it warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine salmon, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in milk and thyme; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Gluten-Free Salmon Chowder
This creamy chowder is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring salmon as the star of the show. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch, this gluten-free recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add fish broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add salmon fillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Salmon Chowder
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful chowder, packed with the rich flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add wine, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Add salmon fillet; cook until opaque and flaky, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Curried Salmon Chowder
This flavorful chowder combines the richness of salmon with the warmth of curry spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. With a hint of sweetness from the potatoes and creaminess from the coconut milk, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup fish stock or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the salmon, potatoes, coconut milk, and fish stock/broth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Rice and Salmon Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the rich taste of salmon, perfect for a cold winter’s day. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or fish stock
– 1 can (14 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/2 cup diced potatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and cook according to package instructions using water or fish stock.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes until tender.
3. Add the cooked salmon, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Once the wild rice is cooked, add it to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Simmer the chowder for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 creamy salmon chowder recipes! From classic New England styles to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Discover how smoked salmon pairs perfectly with corn and cream, or how coconut milk adds a tropical touch. Spice things up with Cajun seasoning or add some heat with red pepper flakes. For a comforting treat, try adding potatoes and leeks or roasting garlic for added depth. Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or a rich indulgence, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. Dive in and find your new favorite chowder!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
