Classic Cioppino Seafood Stew

Name: Classic Cioppino Seafood Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb mussels, cleaned; 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb white fish fillets (like cod or halibut), cut into chunks; 1 lb clams, cleaned; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups fish stock or water; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Classic Cioppino Seafood Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings the taste of the sea to your table. This Italian-American seafood stew is packed with a variety of fish and shellfish, simmered in a rich tomato broth, making it the perfect meal for seafood lovers.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-11T16:21:04.900Z

Cioppino originated in San Francisco and is a delicious way to enjoy a variety of seafood. This stew is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors, but it also offers a blend of flavors that transport you straight to the coast. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting with a rich, savory broth
A delightful mix of fresh seafood and aromatic herbs
Great for sharing with family and friends on special occasions

      

A Taste of the Sea

Cioppino, a traditional Italian-American dish, is a seafood lover's dream. Originating from the coastal city of San Francisco, this stew combines the freshest catches from the ocean into a single pot. The unique blend of mussels, shrimp, clams, and white fish creates a symphony of flavors that transport you straight to the seaside with every bite.

The beauty of Cioppino lies in its versatility. You can customize the seafood based on what's available or your personal preferences. Whether you prefer crab, squid, or scallops, incorporating different types of seafood can elevate the dish and make it your own. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy Cioppino year-round, celebrating the bounty of the ocean in every season.

Perfect for Gatherings

Cioppino is more than just a meal; it's an experience meant to be shared. The communal nature of this stew encourages diners to gather around the table, dipping crusty bread into the rich broth and savoring the delightful mix of seafood. It’s perfect for family dinners, festive occasions, or cozy gatherings with friends, making it a beloved choice for celebrations.

Serving Cioppino can be a showstopper. Presenting a bubbling pot at the center of the table invites everyone to dive in together, fostering a sense of togetherness and joy. Pair it with a crisp white wine, and you have a meal that not only satisfies the palate but also warms the heart.

Tips for the Best Cioppino

To ensure your Cioppino is packed with flavor, always opt for the freshest seafood available. Visit your local fish market for the best selection, as freshness is key in elevating this dish. If you're unsure about what to choose, don’t hesitate to ask the fishmonger for recommendations on the day’s catch.

Another tip is to balance the flavors in your broth. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and don’t shy away from experimenting with herbs like thyme or oregano. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can add a bright note that complements the seafood beautifully. Remember, the goal is to create a rich, savory broth that enhances the natural flavors of the seafood.

Ingredients

Seafood

1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb white fish fillets (like cod or halibut), cut into chunks
1 lb clams, cleaned

Broth

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups fish stock or water
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Enjoy your delicious Cioppino with a side of crusty bread!

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, white wine, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes.

Add Seafood

Add the mussels and clams first. Cover the pot and cook for about 5 minutes or until they start to open. Then add the shrimp and white fish.

Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink and the fish is cooked through.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade Cioppino!

Serving Suggestions

Cioppino is best served hot, straight from the pot, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. A loaf of crusty sourdough bread is a classic accompaniment, allowing you to soak up the delicious broth. Additionally, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the stew.

For a more elevated dining experience, consider serving a selection of white wines that complement the seafood. A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can enhance the meal, highlighting the flavors of the dish while offering a crisp finish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the stew even more delicious upon reheating. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from thickening too much.

While you can freeze Cioppino, be mindful that seafood textures may change after freezing. If possible, freeze the broth separately from the seafood to maintain the best quality. When ready to serve, thaw and heat the broth before adding fresh seafood for a rejuvenated dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood works well. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.

→ What type of fish is best for Cioppino?

Firm white fish like cod, halibut, or snapper are great choices for Cioppino.

→ Is Cioppino spicy?

Cioppino has a mild spice level, but you can adjust it by adding more or less red pepper flakes.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the broth ahead of time and add the seafood just before serving.