Ina Garten Fish Chowder Recipe

This Ina Garten Fish Chowder Recipe is a creamy and comforting seafood dish, which uses white fish and bacon. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 55 minutes.

Jump to Recipe

Ina Garten Fish Chowder Recipe Ingredients

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon (chopped)
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups fish stock or seafood broth
• 1 cup clam juice (or additional fish stock)
• 2 large potatoes (diced)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1½ pounds white fish (cod, halibut, or haddock), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

How To Make Ina Garten Fish Chowder Recipe

1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
2. Sauté vegetables: Add onion and celery, cooking for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and butter; cook 1 minute more.
3. Make the base: Sprinkle in flour and stir well, cooking for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add fish stock and clam juice while stirring to avoid lumps.
4. Add potatoes and seasoning: Stir in potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
5. Add fish and dairy: Stir in white fish and cook for 5–7 minutes until cooked through. Reduce heat and stir in cream and milk. Warm gently without boiling.
6. Finish and serve: Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning and add lemon juice if desired. Garnish each bowl with bacon and parsley. Serve hot with bread or crackers.

Recipe Tips

• What kind of fish is best?: Cod, haddock, halibut, or any firm white fish works well.
• How to avoid curdling: Don’t let the cream boil—heat gently after adding.
• Can I use frozen fish?: Yes, just thaw and pat dry before adding.
• How to thicken chowder more: Simmer longer or mash some potatoes.
• How to make it smokier: Add more smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke.

What To Serve With Fish Chowder

This creamy chowder pairs perfectly with cozy sides:

• Crusty sourdough bread
• Oyster crackers
• Garden salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables
• Buttery biscuits

How To Store Fish Chowder

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Freeze before adding cream and milk for best texture. Reheat, then add dairy before serving.

Fish Chowder Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~380
• Fat: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Protein: ~25g
• Sodium: ~700mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

FAQs

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, make a day ahead and reheat gently. Add dairy last for best texture.

Is this chowder gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour to thicken the soup.

What’s the best way to reheat chowder?
Reheat slowly over low heat without boiling to preserve creaminess.

Can I substitute shellfish?
Yes, shrimp or scallops make great additions. Adjust cook time accordingly.

How do I know when the fish is done?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Roasted Potato Leek Soup Recipe
• Ina Garten Tomato Orzo Soup Recipe
• Ina Garten Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe