When it comes to comforting meals that wow your taste buds, this Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili is a hearty game-changer. Loaded with succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and sweet corn, this chili blends coastal flavors with Southern comfort. The creamy base, laced with cheese and kissed with spice, wraps around each bite like a warm blanket on a chilly night.

Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, this chili brings a gourmet twist to classic comfort food. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinners, this bowl of creamy goodness is rich, colorful, and irresistibly flavorful. Top it off with sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for a finishing touch that makes each serving unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili

Decadently creamy with a perfect balance of spice and richness.
Packed with protein from shrimp, sausage, and beans.
Colorful and comforting, ideal for any season but especially satisfying in fall or winter.
Versatile: Easily customize with your favorite seafood or switch out the sausage for turkey or chicken.
Crowd-pleaser that looks fancy but is easy to make in one pot.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect bowl of Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili, having the right tools makes all the difference:

Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: Ensures even heat distribution for slow simmering without burning.
Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: Essential for prepping veggies and proteins cleanly and quickly.
Wooden Spoon or Heat-Proof Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring and scraping the bottom without damaging your pot.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Guarantees accurate seasoning and consistency every time.
Ladle: Handy for serving those hearty portions straight into bowls.

Ingredients for the Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili

Each ingredient adds flavor, texture, or depth to this irresistible chili:

Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – The star of the dish, bringing a sweet, briny flavor.
Andouille sausage (sliced) – Smoky, spicy richness that balances the creaminess.
Red kidney beans – For hearty texture and fiber.
Corn kernels – Sweet bursts that complement the savory broth.
Diced tomatoes with green chiles – Adds acidity and a gentle heat.
Bell peppers and onions (chopped) – Classic aromatics that build a savory base.
Yukon gold potatoes (cubed) – Creamy, tender, and helps thicken the chili naturally.
Garlic cloves (minced) – Adds robust depth.
Cajun seasoning + paprika – For that signature Southern kick.
Seafood or chicken broth – A flavorful foundation for simmering.
Heavy cream + cream cheese – To create a silky, luxurious texture.
Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese – Melts into the chili for richness.
Olive oil + butter – For sautéing and flavor layering.
Fresh parsley or cilantro – For a bright, fresh garnish.

How To Make the Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Heat olive oil and butter in your Dutch oven. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until tender and fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Toss in the sliced andouille sausage. Cook until slightly crisp and browned around the edges to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add in diced tomatoes with green chiles, corn, beans, potatoes, and seasonings (Cajun, paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Creamy Dream

Stir in the cream cheese until melted, followed by the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix gently to form that luscious, creamy base.

Step 6: Add the Shrimp

Gently fold in the shrimp and simmer for another 4-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with sour cream, chopped herbs, and extra cheese if desired. Serve with warm bread or cornbread on the side.

Serving and Storing This Chili

This creamy chili is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pot. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream, extra cheese, or chopped fresh herbs for brightness. Pair it with crusty garlic bread, buttery cornbread, or a simple side salad.

To store leftovers, allow the chili to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive its luscious texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other seafood besides shrimp?

Absolutely! Scallops, crab meat, or firm white fish like cod work beautifully in this chili.

Is it very spicy?

The level of heat depends on your Cajun seasoning and the diced tomatoes with chiles. Adjust both to match your preferred spice level.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just reheat slowly and stir well.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can swap it with mascarpone, a touch of sour cream, or even Greek yogurt for a tangier twist.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Add them at the very end of the cooking process and only cook until they’re pink and firm – about 4-5 minutes max.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Want More Comforting Dinner Ideas?

If this creamy chili hit the spot, you might want to explore more cozy, savory meals from my kitchen:

Each of these recipes is rich in flavor, quick to make, and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add crab or go all shrimp? Did you spice it up even more?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and cozier.