When it comes to comfort food, few things beat a warm and satisfying bowl of seafood soup. And when you add creaminess to the mix, you’ve got a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and familiar or adventurous and exotic, there’s a creamy seafood soup recipe out there to suit your taste.
From the rich and buttery flavors of New England Clam Chowder to the spicy and sour notes of Thai Coconut Seafood Soup, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With ingredients ranging from lobster to shrimp to fish, and spices and seasonings galore, there’s something for everyone in this list. So grab a spoon and get ready to dive into the world of creamy seafood soups!
New England Clam Chowder
This classic recipe is a staple of New England cuisine, featuring tender clams, creamy potatoes, and a rich broth that’s sure to warm your heart and belly. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup all-purpose potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– Salt and pepper 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 clams, potatoes, milk or heavy cream, and clam juice. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes, or until clams are tender and potatoes are cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Coconut Seafood Soup
A flavorful and aromatic soup that combines the richness of coconut milk with the freshness of seafood, this Thai-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion. With its creamy broth and variety of seafood, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), cleaned and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups fish stock or water
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed seafood and cook until lightly browned.
4. Stir in coconut milk, fish stock or water, curry paste, and cumin.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Seafood Gumbo
A hearty, spicy stew that combines the flavors of Louisiana with the freshness of seafood.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound crawfish tail meat (or frozen lump crab)
– 2 cups fish stock (or chicken stock as substitute)
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add shrimp, crawfish, fish stock, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve over rice, garnished with chopped scallions and filé powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic French Bouillabaisse
Bouillabaisse, a hearty fish stew originating from the port city of Marseille, is a quintessential French dish that warms hearts and bellies. This recipe brings together a medley of seafood, aromatics, and spices to create a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mixed fish (such as cod, snapper, and shrimp), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mussels, scrubbed clean and patted dry
– 1 cup clams, scrubbed clean and patted dry
– 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup saffron-infused water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Croutons (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, mussels, clams, tomatoes, saffron-infused water, and thyme.
3. Cook for 5 minutes or until the seafood is tender.
4. Add the fish pieces and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with croutons on top (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tom Yum Goong (Thai Hot and Sour Shrimp Soup)
This classic Thai dish is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors. With its rich aroma, tangy sourness, and spicy kick, Tom Yum Goong is a soup that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (or more to taste)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine water, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, white pepper, paprika, and chili flakes in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and mushrooms; cook until shrimp are pink and mushrooms are tender (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in vegetable oil and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Portuguese Seafood Stew with Saffron
Savor the bold flavors of Portugal’s coastal regions with this hearty seafood stew, infused with the subtle warmth of saffron.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), scrubbed and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fish stock (or water)
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seafood, fish stock, wine (if using), saffron with its soaking liquid, and bay leaf.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Discard bay leaf; serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lobster Bisque with Sherry
This rich and creamy bisque is a perfect showcase for the decadent flavor of lobster, elevated by the subtle sweetness of sherry. Serve it as an appetizer or use it as a base for other seafood soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 lobsters (1 1/2 pounds each), steamed and pulled into chunks
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup dry sherry
– 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 fish stock, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and sherry. Add lobster chunks; cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Seafood Pho
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Vietnam with a seafood-packed pho that’s perfect for a comforting meal. With a clear broth, springy noodles, and an assortment of succulent seafood, you’ll be hooked from the first sip.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups beef or chicken stock
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound squid, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine stock, fish sauce, soy sauce, onion, and garlic in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add shrimp, squid, and mussels to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Ladle pho into bowls and top with noodles, scallions, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spanish Seafood Soup with Garlic Aioli
Experience the bold flavors of Spain with this hearty seafood soup, paired with a rich and creamy garlic aioli for dipping. This recipe is perfect for a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2 cups seafood broth
– 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic aioli ingredients: 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes, seafood broth, saffron, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add mixed seafood. Cook until seafood is cooked through (8-10 minutes).
5. Meanwhile, mix garlic aioli ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Serve with soup.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cioppino (San Francisco Seafood Stew)
A hearty, flavorful stew originating from San Francisco’s Italian-American community, Cioppino is a perfect representation of the city’s rich culinary heritage. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is best enjoyed with crusty bread and a side of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound cod or halibut, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 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 onion is translucent.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, fish broth, mussels, clams, shrimp, cod, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Spicy Seafood Soup (Jjamppong)
This hearty and spicy soup is a staple of Korean cuisine, packed with a variety of seafood and noodles. Jjamppong’s bold flavors will warm your belly and your senses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (clams, mussels, shrimp), cleaned and rinsed
– 1/2 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 8 oz. noodles of your choice (e.g., rice cakes, udon)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seafood and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Add chili flakes, soy sauce, Gochujang, and black pepper; stir to combine.
5. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
8. Serve soup with noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Kakavia (Fisherman’s Soup)
A hearty and comforting soup originating from Greece, perfect for a chilly day or a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of fish bones and heads (any white fish works well)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups of water
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the fish bones and heads under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, carrots, celery, and fish bones to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Mexican Seafood Soup (Caldo de Mariscos)
A flavorful and hearty soup that combines the freshness of seafood with the warmth of traditional Mexican spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fish broth
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine fish broth, onion, garlic, tomato, cilantro, oregano, and cumin.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add mixed seafood and cook until it’s fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Lime wedges on the side are optional but recommended.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Crab and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines fresh corn, succulent crab, and a rich creamy broth, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a light lunch. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, this recipe is a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 pound jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or canned)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add corn, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Gently fold in crab meat.
6. Reduce heat to low and let chowder simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Miso Seafood Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of miso with a medley of seafood and vegetables, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dashi broth and miso paste. Whisk until the miso is dissolved.
2. Add the seafood, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brazilian Moqueca de Peixe
Moqueca de Peixe is a popular Brazilian dish that combines the freshness of fish with the bold flavors of coconut milk and spices. This recipe is a simplified version of this traditional stew, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the fish, coconut milk, water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Manhattan Clam Chowder
This classic New England-inspired soup is a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional clam chowder, featuring tender clams, rich tomato broth, and a hint of smokiness from the bacon.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can whole tomatoes, drained and chopped
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups clams, scrubbed and rinsed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add butter to the pot and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add chopped tomatoes, clam juice, and oregano. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the heavy cream and cooked bacon.
5. Add the clams and cook until they open, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Tom Kha Gai (Coconut Galangal Soup)
A rich and creamy Thai soup infused with the warmth of galangal, perfect for a cold day or as a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, fish balls)
– 4 cups coconut milk
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 1/2 inch galangal, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Add the galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves; sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Add the seafood and cook until cooked through (5-7 minutes).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caribbean Conch Soup
This traditional Caribbean soup is a staple of Bahamian cuisine, made with tender conch meat, aromatic spices, and a hint of tropical flavor. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to warm your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb conch meat (or substitute with clams), cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add conch meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until conch is tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Seafood Minestrone
This Mediterranean-inspired seafood minestrone is a delicious and nutritious soup that combines the freshness of the sea with the warmth of the Mediterranean. With its rich flavors and textures, it’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, water, seafood, parsley, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
3. Add the pasta shapes and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of the sea with these 20 creamy seafood soup recipes. From classic French Bouillabaisse to spicy Korean Jjamppong, and from New England Clam Chowder to Portuguese Seafood Stew with Saffron, this collection has something for every palate. Other highlights include Lobster Bisque with Sherry, Thai Coconut Seafood Soup, and Caribbean Conch Soup. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, these recipes are sure to delight.
