This comforting shrimp and corn soup is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and satisfying. Ready in no time and bursting with flavor, it’s a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with sweet corn in a luscious broth.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it’s not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers a rich and comforting flavor profile that is sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of fresh shrimp and sweet corn creates a harmonious balance, while the creamy base makes every spoonful feel indulgent. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this creamy shrimp and corn soup will not disappoint.
Introduction
As the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul. This creamy shrimp and corn soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining the sweetness of corn with succulent shrimp in a velvety broth. It’s a dish that evokes memories of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, gathering around the table to share stories as the aroma of delicious food fills the air. Not only is it a comfort food classic, but it is also versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or a main course. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup celery (chopped)
- 4 green onions (sliced, white and green parts separated)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (15-ounce) can cream-style corn
- 1 ½ cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled, deveined, uncooked)
- 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (plus more to taste)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Warm a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Once melted, add the chopped celery and the white parts of the green onions. Cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
Step 2:
Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3:
Sprinkle the flour into the pot, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. This will help thicken the soup later. Remove the pot from heat and gradually pour in the milk and heavy whipping cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
Step 4:
Return the pot to the heat, increase to high, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
Step 5:
Add the cream-style corn and corn kernels to the pot. Stir well and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. Finally, add the uncooked shrimp and Old Bay seasoning, stirring to combine. Cook until the shrimp are pink and no longer translucent, about 3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this creamy shrimp and corn soup in warm bowls, garnished with the green parts of the green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine for an elevated dining experience.
Tips:
- For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some diced bell peppers or carrots along with the celery.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the shrimp.
- This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- You can substitute the shrimp with crab meat or lobster for a luxurious twist.
- If you want a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This creamy shrimp and corn soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this soup brings the warmth of home-cooked meals right to your table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful soup that will leave you craving more!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water before adding them to the soup.
2. Is there a way to lighten this soup?
Yes! You can use low-fat milk instead of whole milk and reduce the amount of heavy cream, or replace it with a low-fat cream alternative. You can also use less butter or substitute it with olive oil.
3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Certainly! Omit the shrimp and use vegetable broth instead of milk and cream. You can add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture.
4. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the soup if it thickens too much.
5. What should I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with a side of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
