Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew

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If you’re craving a meal that brings the warmth of the Italian coast straight to your dinner table, this Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew will steal your heart. Packed with plump shrimp, mussels, clams, and tender white fish simmered in a tomato-wine broth, it’s rustic comfort food at its finest. With layers of flavor from garlic, onions, herbs, and a touch of spice, this dish is a soul-hugging bowl perfect for any seafood lover.

This stew is more than just dinner; it’s a full experience. Imagine ladling it over warm toasted bread or serving it with a chilled glass of white wine—it’s the kind of dish that makes even a simple night feel special. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this Italian seafood stew offers richness and elegance in every spoonful.

What Kind of Seafood Should I Use?

The beauty of this stew lies in its versatility. You want a mix of textures and flavors: shrimp for sweetness, mussels and clams for briny depth, and firm white fish like cod or halibut to hold up in the stew. You can also toss in scallops, squid, or even crab depending on what’s fresh or available. Frozen seafood works too—just be sure to thaw it properly.

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Ingredients for the Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew

• Shrimp: Adds a tender, slightly sweet bite that balances the savory broth.
• Mussels and Clams: Infuse the stew with natural briny ocean flavor.
• White Fish (like cod or halibut): Gives heartiness and absorbs all the spices.
• Olive Oil: The base for sautéing aromatics, adding rich Mediterranean depth.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential flavor builders that create the aromatic foundation.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Form the bulk of the stew base, giving body and acidity.
• Dry White Wine: Adds a touch of brightness and depth.
• Fish or Chicken Stock: Brings all the ingredients together with richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Just enough heat to balance the sweet seafood.
• Bay Leaf, Oregano, and Parsley: For that classic Italian herbaceousness.
• Salt and Pepper: To bring out all the existing flavors.
• Crusty Bread: Not technically part of the stew, but mandatory for soaking up every drop.

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How To Make the Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Base

Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits. Let it reduce for a minute, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, fish or chicken stock, bay leaf, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Simmer for Flavor

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes to deepen the flavors. The sauce should slightly thicken and become rich and aromatic.

Step 4: Add the Seafood

Start with the clams and mussels, covering the pot and steaming them for about 5–7 minutes until they begin to open. Then add the shrimp and white fish. Simmer gently for another 5 minutes, until everything is cooked through. Discard any unopened shells.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread on the side—or right in the bowl!

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Serving and Storing Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew

This stew is best served piping hot, straight from the pot. Ladle it generously into bowls and pair with crusty artisan bread or toasted sourdough to soak up the flavorful broth. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving elevate the presentation and flavor.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Seafood is delicate, so avoid reheating more than once to preserve texture and taste. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.

What to Serve With Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for sopping up every last drop of the tomato-wine broth.

Lemon Arugula Salad

The peppery greens and citrus dressing balance the stew’s richness.

Roasted Asparagus

Light, tender, and adds a nice snap of green freshness to your plate.

Parmesan Polenta

Creamy and cheesy, it pairs deliciously with seafood stews.

Caprese Skewers

Mini mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a light, fresh side.

Simple Pasta with Olive Oil

Tossed in garlic and herbs, it complements the stew without overpowering it.

Grilled Artichokes

Add a smoky, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet seafood.

White Wine

Try Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to keep things crisp and complementary.

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Want More Stew Ideas?

If you love this rich and hearty seafood bowl, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting dishes:

• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup: A Rich and Hearty Delight
• Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight
• A Hearty and Comforting Bowl of Hamburger Soup
• Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy
• Cheeseburger Soup: A Creamy, Comforting Delight

Save This Rich and Hearty Italian Seafood Stew

Hit that Save button if you’re planning a cozy seafood night—you’ll want this recipe close when the weather turns chilly or you need a one-pot wonder.

Tried this Italian Seafood Stew? I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you stick to the classic mix or add your own seafood twist? Share your tweaks and tips in the comments below.

📌 Pin this recipe to your ‘Soups & Stews’ board on Pinterest – when the craving hits, you’ll be glad it’s there!

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