Name: Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced or finely chopped; ¼ cup flour; ¼ cup dry white wine; 3 cups chicken broth; 3 medium golden potatoes, washed and cubed; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 oz salmon fillets (about 3 wild salmon fillets, skin removed); ⅔ cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (100% optional)

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If you are craving a comforting bowl of something that’s both rich and fresh, you will absolutely adore this Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe. It perfectly balances the delicate flavor of salmon with the heartiness of golden potatoes, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy broth that’s subtly brightened by fresh dill. This chowder isn’t just a meal; it’s like a warm hug in a bowl, ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests with soothing yet sophisticated flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several fresh ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. On the left, three bright orange salmon fillets are stacked on a white plate with subtle speckles. Near them are two containers, one with salt and the other with pepper. Below the salmon, there is a small white measuring cup filled with white flour and a whole bulb of garlic. Moving to the right, a large pale yellow onion sits next to three light brown potatoes. Above, two pieces of yellow butter rest on a small white plate, and a few fresh green dill sprigs add color near the top right. On the far right, there is a clear glass pitcher filled with a yellowish liquid and a small glass container of cream or milk. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this chowder is surprisingly straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in building layers of taste, texture, and aroma. From the sweetness of onions and garlic to the velvety smoothness of heavy cream and the fresh zing of dill, every ingredient invites its own magic to this dish.

Butter: The key to creating a rich base for sautéing your aromatics and enriching the broth’s flavor.
Medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes to a golden hue.
Garlic cloves, minced: Offers that fragrant, savory punch that wakes up the soup.
Flour: Works as a thickening agent, giving the chowder its creamy, velvety texture.
Dry white wine: Brings an elegant acidity that lifts the flavors without overpowering.
Chicken broth: The savory liquid foundation that infuses the soup with umami.
Golden potatoes: Provide heartiness and a comforting bite, their creaminess melt-perfect in the soup.
Salt and pepper: Basic but vital seasoning to enhance every ingredient.
Salmon fillets: The star protein that delivers tender, flaky richness and a subtle ocean flavor.
Heavy whipping cream: Adds luscious creaminess and makes each spoonful feel indulgent.
Fresh dill: A bright, fragrant herb that adds a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy soup.

How to Make Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat until it’s glossy and fragrant. Toss in your chopped onion and sauté them gently for about 6 to 8 minutes until they soften and turn that beautiful golden shade. This step brings out their natural sweetness, setting a wonderful base for the chowder. Next, add the minced garlic and cook it just for about a minute, stirring frequently so it releases its aromatic oils without burning.

Step 2: Build the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your softened onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute. This mixture, known as a roux, is key to thickening your soup perfectly without lumps. The gentle cooking of flour here cooks out any raw flour taste and readies your base to welcome the liquids smoothly.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Potatoes

Slowly pour in the dry white wine while whisking continuously to ensure a silky mixture free of clumps. Once combined, add the chicken broth and continue whisking until everything is fully integrated. Toss in your cubed golden potatoes, then bring the entire pot to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce heat, season with salt and pepper to your liking, and let it simmer on low for about 15 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften without falling apart, making your chowder hearty and comforting.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon and Finish the Chowder

Gently nestle salmon fillets into the simmering soup and pour in the heavy whipping cream. Let the soup simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the salmon is perfectly cooked through and flakes easily. Use a spoon to gently break up the fillets into chunky, tender pieces, dispersing their rich flavor throughout the chowder.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle the finely chopped dill over the chowder, adding a fresh, herbal aroma that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broth. Give it one last gentle stir, then ladle this comforting soup into bowls and prepare to bask in the delicious, warming flavors of your Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe.

How to Serve Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe

A close-up view of a creamy soup with chunks of orange carrots and white potatoes mixed in a thick light beige broth. The soup is speckled with fresh green dill and black pepper, creating small colorful details throughout. A wooden spoon with a smooth, dark brown handle is lifting a scoop of the soup, showing the textured vegetables inside. The background is a white marbled texture, adding softness and brightness to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh dill is a classic and lovely garnish, but you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for an extra kick. A small drizzle of good olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche can also add an elegant finishing touch that makes every spoonful feel special.

Side Dishes

This chowder shines on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or warm garlic toast can turn the meal into a satisfying experience. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, bringing a crisp, refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chowder in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic feel. You can also garnish with a small sprig of dill or add a few salmon roe on top to elevate the dish visually and texturally. Serving in rustic ceramic bowls enhances the cozy, homemade vibe of this delicious Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making your leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to give it a gentle stir before reheating so the cream blends nicely back into the broth.

Freezing

While creamy chowders can sometimes change texture after freezing due to the cream, this recipe can be frozen with some care. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge and expect to stir well while reheating to bring it back to creamy perfection.

Reheating

Reheat your chowder gently on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent scorching and to reincorporate any separated cream. If the soup thickens too much, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this chowder?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon fully and pat it dry before adding it to the pot for even cooking and the best texture.

Is fresh dill necessary or can I substitute dried dill?

Fresh dill brings the bright, vibrant flavor that makes this chowder stand out. If dried dill is the only option, use it sparingly as it is more concentrated and lacks the fresh herbal zing of fresh dill.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk thickened with a bit of flour, but expect a different, slightly less creamy texture and a subtle flavor change.

What wine should I use for cooking the chowder?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works perfectly, lending acidity without sweetness, which balances the richness of the cream and salmon.

How do I prevent the potatoes from getting mushy?

Cut the potatoes into even, moderately sized cubes and add them at the right time, simmering just until tender. Overcooking them makes them fall apart, so keep an eye on texture as they simmer.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe is one of those exceptional dishes that feels like a labor of love but comes together effortlessly. It’s worthy of any weekday dinner or a special occasion, combining humble ingredients into a truly comforting masterpiece. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the warmth and joy it brings to the table.

Creamy Salmon Chowder Soup with Potatoes and Dill Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need