When the air turns crisp and your sweater becomes your second skin, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of Cozy Salmon Chowder. This dish brings comfort with every spoonful, combining rich salmon, creamy potatoes, and a hint of dill for a satisfying meal that tastes like a hug. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out and makes even the coldest days feel just a little more bearable.

What makes this chowder stand out is its balance. The brininess of the salmon is mellowed by the creamy broth, while hearty vegetables like carrots and celery add a rustic feel. Whether you’re craving something nourishing for a solo evening or you want to impress guests with a simple yet elegant starter, this Cozy Salmon Chowder will be your go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Salmon Chowder

This chowder is a beautiful blend of nutritious and indulgent. Salmon brings healthy omega-3 fats and protein, while the creamy base makes it feel luxurious. It’s a quick weeknight dinner, a warming lunch, or a lovely addition to a holiday spread. Plus, it’s flexible: swap in leeks for onions or add a handful of corn for extra sweetness.

If you love recipes that come together in one pot with little fuss and maximum flavor, this chowder checks every box.

Can I Use Canned Salmon in This Chowder?

Absolutely! While fresh salmon gives a firmer bite and a more delicate texture, canned salmon is a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure to drain it well and remove any bones or skin if needed. It’s perfect when you want to whip up a comforting meal without a trip to the seafood counter.

Ingredients for the Cozy Salmon Chowder

The beauty of this chowder lies in its simplicity. A few fresh ingredients come together to create something incredibly cozy. Here’s what you’ll need:

Salmon: The star of the show. You can use fresh, cooked, or canned.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or russets work best for a tender, creamy texture.
Onion: Adds a sweet base flavor to the broth.
Carrots: For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
Celery: Gives the soup a savory depth and a bit of crunch.
Garlic: Brings the aromatics to life.
Butter: Helps soften the veggies and adds richness.
Flour: Used to thicken the broth just enough.
Fish stock or chicken broth: Forms the savory base of the chowder.
Heavy cream: For that luscious, velvety finish.
Dill: Fresh or dried, it adds brightness that complements the salmon.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors.

How To Make the Cozy Salmon Chowder

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the veggies are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and stir for another minute.

Step 2: Build the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the vegetables. This helps thicken the soup. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Slowly pour in the broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add diced potatoes, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Add the Salmon

Gently stir in the salmon and let it warm through. If you’re using raw salmon, simmer until it’s just cooked through, about 5 minutes. Flake it into pieces as it cooks.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and warm until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Add fresh or dried dill at the end for brightness.

How to Serve and Store Cozy Salmon Chowder

This salmon chowder serves 4 to 6 people and is best enjoyed warm with crusty bread or a flaky biscuit. It makes a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a hearty lunch that reheats beautifully.

To store, let the chowder cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid breaking the cream. You can also freeze it, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the cream.

What to Serve With Cozy Salmon Chowder?

Crusty Sourdough Bread

Nothing beats dipping a slice of sourdough into a creamy chowder. The tangy flavor and chewy crust complement the soup perfectly.

Cheddar Biscuits

Fluffy, cheesy biscuits are great for soaking up every last drop.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds a light and crisp contrast to the rich chowder.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Oven-roasted with olive oil and sea salt, these bring a smoky depth that pairs well.

Cornbread Muffins

For a slightly sweet Southern twist, cornbread is a comforting side.

Pickled Vegetables

A tangy, crunchy contrast like pickled onions or cucumbers makes for a bright side.

Steamed Green Beans

A no-fuss veggie that adds freshness and color to your plate.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Cozy Salmon Chowder, here are a few other cozy bowls you might crave next:

Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for a cheesy, noodle-filled dream.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup Recipe when you want comfort without the crust.
Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup that brings a Mediterranean flair.
Boilermaker Tailgate Chili if you’re in the mood for bold, meaty heat.
Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole for a seafood fix with a baked twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it whenever you’re in need of a bowl full of warmth.

Have you tried this chowder with smoked salmon? Did you add extra herbs or a splash of white wine? I’d love to hear how you made it your own in the comments below.

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