Creamy Potato Soup with Shrimp Recipe: A Comforting Seafood Delight

Why You'll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich & Creamy – The velvety potato base pairs perfectly with tender shrimp.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to dish.
✔ Comforting & Hearty – Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a comforting meal.
✔ Protein-Packed – A great balance of carbs from potatoes and protein from shrimp.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
4 cups chicken or seafood broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
1/2 tsp dried thyme
For the Shrimp
1/2 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or paprika + cayenne mix)
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
Toppings (Optional)
Crumbled bacon
Shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or gouda)
Chopped green onions or fresh parsley
A drizzle of hot sauce for extra spice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken or seafood broth.
Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
Once the potatoes are fork-tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of it and leave some potato pieces intact.
Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree, and return to the pot.
Stir in the heavy cream and milk, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
While the soup simmers, heat 1 tbsp butter in a separate pan over medium heat.
Add the shrimp, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Final Touches
Stir the cooked shrimp into the soup, reserving a few for garnish.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs.
Tips for the Best Creamy Potato Soup with Shrimp
✔ Use Starchy Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes create a smooth, creamy texture.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
✔ Make It Lighter – Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
✔ Extra Depth of Flavor – Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for a bright, tangy touch.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with:
🥖 Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping.
🥗 Fresh Salad – A light green salad balances out the richness.
🧀 Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic combo for ultimate comfort.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months, but leave out the cream until reheating for the best texture.
Reheat: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. If too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Potato Soup with Shrimp is the ultimate combination of comfort and elegance. The creamy potato base, paired with juicy, flavorful shrimp, creates a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it to impress guests, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit!
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