Amazing Salmon Chowder in Under 1 Hour

Name: Amazing Salmon Chowder in Under 1 Hour
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups salmon broth; 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 cup half-and-half; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

by Jannet Lisa

25 de September de 2025

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Salmon chowder has always been my go-to for a comforting, yet surprisingly quick, weeknight meal. I remember the first time I tried my aunt’s recipe for a creamy salmon chowder; the rich, savory broth and tender flakes of fish filled my kitchen with the most amazing aroma. It felt so gourmet, but she assured me it was incredibly simple. This hearty seafood chowder is perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking this delicious chowder!

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Chowder

Get ready to fall in love with this fantastic chowder. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience!

Incredibly Flavorful: The rich broth and tender salmon create a taste sensation you won’t forget.
Quick and Easy: This easy salmon chowder comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy nights.
Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a meal that truly fills you up.
Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate cozy dish for any occasion, bringing warmth and joy.
Impress Your Guests: Serve this homemade salmon chowder and watch everyone rave about your cooking skills.
Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables or even smoked salmon for a twist.
Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with healthy fats from the salmon and essential vitamins from the vegetables.

Ingredients for the Best Salmon Chowder Recipe

Gathering these salmon chowder ingredients is the first step to creating a truly memorable meal. This Atlantic salmon chowder recipe relies on simple, fresh components to build its incredible flavor.

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing our aromatics
1 medium onion, chopped – the flavor base
2 carrots, chopped – adds sweetness and color
2 celery stalks, chopped – for that classic chowder crunch and flavor
4 cups salmon broth – the heart of our chowder’s savory depth
1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces – use good quality salmon for the best taste and texture
1 cup half-and-half – for a luscious, creamy consistency
1/2 cup heavy cream – to enrich the chowder and make it extra decadent
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – provides a bright, herbaceous finish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – essential for balancing all the flavors

How to Make Easy Salmon Chowder

Let’s get started on this simple yet incredibly flavorful chowder. Following these steps will ensure you have a delicious meal in no time.

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 medium onion, chopped, 2 carrots, chopped, and 2 celery stalks, chopped. Cook until these vegetables are softened and starting to become fragrant, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This initial sauté builds a crucial flavor foundation for your chowder.
Step 2: Pour in the 4 cups salmon broth. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, letting those aromatic flavors from the vegetables meld with the broth.
Step 3: Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Gently add the 1 pound salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces to the simmering broth. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. You’ll see the pink salmon turn opaque. This is a key part of how to make salmon chowder that is perfectly cooked.

Step 4: Reduce the heat to low. This is important to prevent the dairy from curdling. Stir in the 1 cup half-and-half and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Gently warm the mixture through, but do not let it boil. This is what makes it a truly creamy salmon chowder.
Step 5: Stir in the 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped for a burst of freshness. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a good stir and taste to adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 6: Serve your delicious, quick salmon chowder hot. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the comforting warmth and rich flavors!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Salmon Chowder

Want to elevate your chowder game? These tips will help you achieve a truly restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen.

Always use fresh, high-quality salmon. The better the fish, the better the chowder!
Don’t overcook the salmon; it should flake easily but still be moist.
For a thicker chowder, you can whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the simmering chowder before adding the dairy.
Taste and adjust seasonings at the very end. Fresh dill really brightens everything up!

What’s the secret to perfect Salmon Chowder?

The secret to a perfect traditional salmon chowder lies in building layers of flavor. Start with a good sauté of your vegetables, use a quality salmon broth, and don’t boil the dairy once added. This gentle cooking method maintains the delicate texture of the salmon and the creaminess of the broth. For more on building flavor in soups, check out this guide on building flavor in stocks and broths.

Can I make Salmon Chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the base of the chowder (sautéed vegetables and broth) a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator. Add the salmon, dairy, and dill just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor. This makes for a super quick meal on the day you plan to eat it. You might also enjoy other last-minute recipes for busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Salmon Chowder?

A common pitfall is overcooking the salmon, which makes it dry and tough. Also, boiling the chowder after adding the half-and-half and heavy cream can cause it to separate or curdle. Always keep the heat on low when adding dairy and stir gently.

Best Ways to Serve Your Hearty Salmon Chowder

This rich and satisfying chowder is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple accompaniments. For a complete and comforting meal, consider serving this seafood chowder with salmon alongside some crusty bread for dipping into that delicious broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy chowder.

Another great option is serving it with oyster crackers or saltines for added texture and a touch of saltiness. For a heartier spread, a warm cornbread muffin or a slice of toasted sourdough bread complements the chowder perfectly. Enjoying this hearty salmon chowder is all about comfort and delicious flavors!

Variations of Salmon Chowder

This base recipe for salmon chowder is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next pot:

Smoked Salmon Chowder: For a deeper, smoky flavor, swap the fresh salmon for an equal amount of flaked smoked salmon chowder. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking, just to heat through, as it’s already cooked.
Vegetable Salmon Chowder: Boost the vegetable content by adding a cup of corn kernels or frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This creates a delightful vegetable salmon chowder with added sweetness and texture.
Salmon Chowder Without Potatoes: If you’re looking for a salmon chowder without potatoes, simply omit them from the ingredients list. The chowder will still be wonderfully creamy and satisfying thanks to the salmon and dairy.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño with the onions for a touch of heat.

Amazing Salmon Chowder in Under 1 Hour - Salmon Chowder - main visual representation

Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Chowder

Got questions about this delicious chowder? I’ve got answers!

What is salmon chowder?

At its heart, what is salmon chowder? It’s a rich, creamy soup featuring chunks of tender salmon, often with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, simmered in a flavorful broth and finished with dairy for that signature velvety texture. It’s a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a chilly evening. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of salmon chowder.

Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

While fresh salmon yields the best texture and flavor for this creamy salmon chowder, you can use canned salmon in a pinch. Drain two 6-ounce cans of salmon, remove any bones or skin, and add it in Step 3, just like the fresh salmon, cooking it through for about 3-4 minutes. This is a great tip if you’re looking for quick meal solutions.

How do I calculate salmon chowder calories?

To estimate salmon chowder calories, you’ll need to know the exact amounts of each ingredient used and their respective calorie counts. The nutrition information provided is an estimate per serving, based on the specific ingredients and quantities listed in the recipe. Factors like the leanness of the salmon and the type of dairy used can slightly alter the final number.

Can I add other types of seafood?

Absolutely! This recipe is fantastic as a base for a broader seafood chowder with salmon. Feel free to add cooked shrimp, scallops, or mussels during the last few minutes of cooking. Just ensure they are added at the right time so they don’t overcook and become tough. You might also enjoy our chicken etouffee recipe for another delicious seafood option.

Salmon Chowder Nutrition Facts

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of this delicious salmon chowder. These figures help you understand the health profile of this comforting dish.

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 450mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Salmon Chowder

Properly storing and reheating your delicious chowder ensures you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come. Once your hearty salmon chowder has finished cooking, let it cool slightly on the counter for about 30 minutes. This prevents condensation in your storage containers, which can affect texture.

For refrigerator storage, transfer the cooled chowder into airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, the freezer is your best friend. Portion the chowder into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Avoid boiling, especially if you’ve added dairy, to maintain its creamy consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Enjoy your leftovers!