Easy Fish Chowder Recipe: Creamy New England Comfort Food

The aroma of creamy New England Fish Chowder wafts through your kitchen, enveloping you in a warm embrace that feels just like home. With a bowl of this sumptuous chowder, brimming with tender fish and hearty potatoes, you’re moments away from a cozy dinner that rivals the coziest of family gatherings. This Easy Fish Chowder brings the essence of the sea to your table, and trust me, every spoonful is a delicious hug you didn’t know you needed.

Imagine sitting with loved ones, laughter filling the room as each of you takes a satisfying slurp from your bowls. This dish is not just about food; it’s about memories, connection, and sharing something special with those who matter most. Perfect for chilly evenings, this chowder transforms simple ingredients into a spectacularly flavorful experience that will make your taste buds dance. Get ready to impress everyone with this easy, comforting recipe!

Ingredients for Easy Fish Chowder

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy Fish Chowder:

1 tablespoon butter – A rich base to start your chowder, adding depth and creaminess to the flavor profile.

1 tablespoon olive oil – Enhances the sautéing process and helps prevent the butter from burning, ensuring a golden-brown finish.

3 large yellow onions – These add sweetness and complexity, forming the flavorful backbone of your chowder.

2-3 cups water – Needed to adjust the consistency of the chowder; feel free to use more or less based on your texture preference.

2 bay leaves – Infuses the chowder with a fragrant, herbal note that complements the seafood beautifully.

1 pinch dried thyme leaves or 1/4 teaspoon fresh – Adds an earthy undertone, enhancing the overall flavor.

1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for amplifying all the wonderful flavors in your chowder.

1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Just the right kick to awaken your taste buds without overpowering the dish.

1.5 – 2 lbs. cod or other fish – Fresh fish brings a tender texture and mild taste; feel free to swap in haddock or another firm fish.

8 oz. clam juice – This adds a delicious briny flavor that allows the ocean to seep into every bite.

2 lbs. potatoes, diced into 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces – Potatoes not only provide heartiness but also absorb the flavors of the chowder beautifully.

1 cup whole milk – For a rich, creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the heartiness of the chowder.

small pinch ground nutmeg – A unique twist that brings warmth and enhances the creamy components of the dish.

1/2 tablespoon minced chives – A fresh and mild onion-like flavor that gives the chowder a lovely finishing touch.

1 cup heavy cream – The secret to making your chowder luxuriously smooth and rich.

more chives, fresh ground black pepper, extra butter, and nutmeg for garnish (optional) – These optional toppings provide extra depth and a beautiful presentation to your dish.

How to Make Easy Fish Chowder

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Easy Fish Chowder:

Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a large heavy pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and softened, which should take about five minutes. You want them to be aromatic and slightly caramelized.

Step 2: Prepare the Broth
Add 2 cups of water along with the thyme, bay leaves, kosher salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, letting the flavors develop and mingle.

Step 3: Cook the Fish
Gently place the cod in the pot, ensuring to lay the pieces flat in a single layer. If the cod isn’t sufficiently submerged, feel free to add a bit more water. Cover the pot and let it cook on low for about 4-5 minutes, until the fish flakes apart easily.

Step 4: Flake the Fish
Once cooked, carefully remove the fish and place it on a plate to cool. You can put it in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, gently flake the fish into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes
In the same pot, add the clam juice and the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Scald the Milk and Combine
While the potatoes are cooking, in a small saucepan, scald the milk with the quartered onion layers. Allow it to boil briefly before reducing the heat to low and simmering uncovered for 5-7 minutes. Strain the milk into the pot, discarding any solids. Stir in the flaked fish, minced chives, and a small pinch of nutmeg. Bring everything back to a gentle simmer before stirring in the heavy cream, allowing the flavors to bloom together.

Transfer to bowls and garnish with extra butter, nutmeg, fresh chives, and a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Dig in and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness that is Easy Fish Chowder. It’s comfort food at its absolute best!

You Must Know About Easy Fish Chowder This showstopping Easy Fish Chowder delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Easy Fish Chowder Cooking Process

To churn out the smoothest Easy Fish Chowder, fry the onions first until they’re golden. Next, add the liquid ingredients, allowing the flavors to dance before introducing your fish and potatoes. This step-by-step approach ensures perfect results every time.

Add Your Touch to Easy Fish Chowder

Feel free to swap in your favorite fish instead of cod; salmon works great too. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a zestier finish or throw in a handful of fresh spinach for an extra health kick.

Storing & Reheating Easy Fish Chowder

Store leftover Easy Fish Chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain creaminess and prevent it from separating.

When I first served this chowder to friends at a cozy winter gathering, the compliments flowed like the chowder itself. You could almost hear their tastebuds sing when they took their first slurp – a memory that still warms my heart.

FAQs About Easy Fish Chowder

What is Easy Fish Chowder?

Easy Fish Chowder is a creamy, comforting soup that highlights the flavors of fresh fish, typically cod, mixed with vibrant vegetables and potatoes. It’s a classic dish in New England, celebrated for its rich texture and savory taste. With a blend of aromatic herbs, clam juice, and hearty potatoes, this chowder stands out as a perfect choice for cozy dinners or gatherings. You can easily customize it with your favorite seafood, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

How do I make my Easy Fish Chowder thicker?

If you desire a thicker Easy Fish Chowder, consider adding a roux made from equal parts flour and butter. Cook the roux for a few minutes before whisking it into your chowder. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the potatoes once they are cooked, then return them to the pot for a creamy texture. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly to achieve the desired thickness without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use frozen fish for Easy Fish Chowder?

Absolutely! Frozen fish can work wonderfully in Easy Fish Chowder. Just make sure to thaw the fish completely before cooking and remove any excess moisture. This ensures that the fish cooks evenly and doesn’t make your chowder watery. Many people prefer using frozen fish because it’s convenient and often just as fresh as the seafood available in the store.

What should I serve with Easy Fish Chowder?

Easy Fish Chowder pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic experience, serve it alongside crusty bread or buttery biscuits for dipping. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider some hearty cornbread or garlic bread to round out the meal. These options complement the chowder, enhancing its rich flavors while providing a satisfying dining experience.

Conclusion for Easy Fish Chowder

In summary, Easy Fish Chowder is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its creamy base, combined with flavorful fish and tender potatoes, makes it a favorite among many. This recipe not only promises incredible taste but also invites creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, Easy Fish Chowder is guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to enjoy it with your favorite accompaniments for the perfect meal experience!

Easy Fish Chowder Recipe: Creamy New England Comfort Food

Experience the warmth of Easy Fish Chowder, a creamy New England classic, with simple ingredients and rich flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: New England

Calories: 249

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 large yellow onions
• 2-3 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pinch dried thyme leaves or fresh
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1.5-2 lbs cod or other fish
• 8 oz clam juice
• 2 lbs potatoes, diced 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup whole milk
• small pinch ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tablespoon minced chives
• 1 cup heavy cream
• more chives, fresh ground black pepper, extra butter, and nutmeg for garnish optional

Equipment

• Large heavy pot
• Small Saucepan

Method

 

1. In a large heavy pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add 2 cups of water, thyme, bay leaves, kosher salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil.
3. Add the cod to the pot, placing the pieces flat in one layer. If necessary, add more water until it comes up to the top of the fish. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 minutes until the fish flakes apart.
4. Remove the fish to a plate and cool in the fridge or freezer. Once cool, gently flake the fish apart.
5. Add the clam juice and cubed potatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer on low for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are soft.
6. While the potatoes are cooking, scald the milk in a small saucepan with the quartered onion layers. Boil, then reduce to low and simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes.
7. Strain the scalded milk into the pot and discard the solids. Add the flaked fish, chives, and nutmeg to the pot.
8. Bring the chowder back to a simmer. Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream gently.
9. Serve and garnish with butter, nutmeg, chives, and black pepper if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 249kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 17gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 481mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4g

Notes

This chowder is perfect for cozy gatherings and can easily be customized with different types of fish or added vegetables.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!