Effortless Midweek Smoky Seafood Chowder Recipe You Can Make in 30 Minutes

Seafood chowder often feels like a weekend luxury, something that takes hours to prepare and is best enjoyed slowly. But what if you could make a rich, smoky, and satisfying seafood chowder in just 30 minutes? This recipe proves it’s possible. Using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a comforting bowl of chowder ready to warm you up on a busy weekday evening.

This chowder combines the smoky flavour of streaky bacon with the fresh taste of white fish and mussels in garlic and white wine sauce. The addition of paprika and Old Bay seasoning adds depth and a subtle kick, while potatoes and sweetcorn bring heartiness and texture. The creamy finish with double cream and fresh parsley ties everything together beautifully.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights

This chowder recipe balances speed and flavour. It uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to create a dish that feels indulgent but is quick to prepare. The smoky bacon and spices add complexity without requiring long cooking times. Using prepared mussels cuts down on prep while still delivering authentic seafood taste.

The one-pot method means less clean up, and the hearty ingredients make it a complete meal. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Smoky Seafood Chowder - The Recipe

Ingredients

• 50g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter

• 1 white onion, finely chopped

• 100g streaky bacon, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 2 tsp paprika

• 2 tsp Old Bay seasoning

• 1 pack of prepared mussels in garlic & white wine sauce

• 150ml dry white wine

• 1 litre chicken stock

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1cm cubes

• 100g boneless, skinless white fish (cod, haddock, or monkfish)

• 1 small can of sweetcorn, drained

• 200ml double cream

• 1 small bunch of parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• Squeeze of lemon juice

  
  

Method

1. Start with the Base

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavour foundation for the chowder.

2. Add the Smoky Elements

Toss in the chopped streaky bacon and cook until it starts to crisp and release its smoky aroma. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom and the garlic soften.

3. Build the Broth

Pour in the dry white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then add the chicken stock and cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Add the Seafood and Sweetcorn

Cut the white fish into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pot along with the prepared mussels in garlic and white wine sauce. Stir in the drained sweetcorn. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until the fish is cooked through and the flavours meld.

5. Finish with Cream and Parsley

Lower the heat and stir in the double cream, chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Heat through without boiling to keep the cream from curdling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Tips for the Best Chowder

• Use fresh or high-quality frozen fish for the best texture and flavour. Cod and haddock are mild and flaky, while monkfish offers a firmer bite.

• Prepared mussels in garlic and white wine sauce save time and add a rich, savoury element without extra effort.

• Serve with crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the creamy broth.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Weeknights

This chowder recipe balances speed and flavor. It uses pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to create a dish that feels indulgent but is quick to prepare. The smoky bacon and spices add complexity without requiring long cooking times. Using prepared mussels cuts down on prep while still delivering authentic seafood taste.

The one-pot method means less cleanup, and the hearty ingredients make it a complete meal. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.