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Creamy and Comforting Homemade Salmon Chowder

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 ribs celery, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups low-sodium seafood or chicken broth
  • 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 pound skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Place a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  • Add butter to the bacon fat. Once melted, add onion and celery and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in the broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then add the potatoes, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.
  • Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook, partially covered, for 10-12 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  • Reduce heat to low. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Add the cubed salmon and cook gently for 3-5 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily. Do not boil.
  • Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the fresh dill, parsley, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately, garnished with the crispy bacon.

Notes

Be careful not to boil the chowder after adding the cream to prevent it from curdling. Gentle heat is key.
Keyword Salmon Chowder, seafood