Creamy Shrimp Chowder Recipe Seafood Hug in a Bowl

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, diced (US: about 4 ounces, Metric: about 115g)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (US: about 1 cup, Metric: about 150g)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (US: about 1 cup, Metric: about 100g)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced (US: about 1 cup, Metric: about 120g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (US: about 2 teaspoons, Metric: about 6g)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a touch of heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth (US: 32 fluid ounces, Metric: 950ml)
• 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (US: 16 ounces, Metric: 450g)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed (US: 16 ounces, Metric: 450g)
• 1 cup heavy cream (US: 8 fluid ounces, Metric: 240ml)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)