Irresistible Cioppino Recipe

Name: Irresistible Cioppino Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb mussels, cleaned; 1 lb clams, cleaned; 1 lb firm white fish (e.g., halibut), cut into chunks; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup fish stock; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

Dive into the rich flavors of the sea with this irresistible cioppino recipe, a classic Italian-American seafood stew that's perfect for sharing.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-06T18:54:53.717Z

This cioppino recipe brings together the freshest seafood in a savory tomato broth, perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering. Each bite is a celebration of flavors, making it a dish that's both comforting and indulgent.

        Why You Will Love This Cioppino
        A delightful medley of fresh seafood in a rich broth
Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings
Easy to customize with your favorite seafood options

      

A Flavorful Journey

Cioppino is more than just a seafood stew; it’s a flavorful journey that brings the essence of the ocean to your table. Originating from San Francisco, this dish beautifully combines the traditions of Italian fishermen with fresh, local seafood. Each spoonful is a celebration of the sea, inviting you to savor the rich, nuanced flavors that only fresh ingredients can provide.

The beauty of cioppino lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite seafood, whether it's succulent scallops, tender squid, or even lobster. This adaptability allows you to personalize the dish, ensuring that every bowl is unique and tailored to your taste preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Cioppino is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. The communal nature of this stew encourages sharing, making it an ideal centerpiece for a festive table. Serve it with crusty bread, and you have a meal that invites conversation and connection.

Not only is cioppino delicious, but it also offers a visually stunning presentation. The vibrant colors of the seafood, combined with the deep red of the broth, create an inviting dish that is sure to impress your guests. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

When preparing cioppino, quality ingredients are key. Opt for the freshest seafood available, as this will significantly enhance the flavor of your stew. Visiting a local fish market can yield the best results, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations on the best catch of the day.

Another tip for achieving a rich and complex broth is to let it simmer longer. Allowing the flavors to meld together will result in a more robust taste. Additionally, feel free to experiment with herbs and spices to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.

Ingredients

Seafood Selection

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb clams, cleaned
1 lb firm white fish (e.g., halibut), cut into chunks

Broth Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup fish stock
1 cup dry white wine
1 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Serve with crusty bread for dipping!

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

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 Wine

Add the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, and white wine to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cook the Seafood

Add the shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish to the pot. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook until the seafood is cooked through, about 10-15 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Enjoy your homemade cioppino!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your cioppino experience, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stew, balancing the flavors perfectly. You can also include a selection of dipping sauces for the bread, such as garlic butter or a spicy aioli, to enhance the meal.

For a complete dining experience, pair your cioppino with a chilled glass of dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The crisp acidity of the wine complements the seafood and adds another layer of flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover cioppino, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. While the flavors will continue to develop, be mindful that seafood can become tough if reheated too many times. It’s best to consume it fresh, but if you need to reheat, do so gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the tenderness of the seafood.

Freezing cioppino is also an option, though it's important to do so before adding the seafood. Store the broth in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the broth, reheat it, and then add your seafood for a quick and easy meal that tastes just as good as the first time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood for this recipe?

Yes, frozen seafood can be used. Just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use additional fish stock or a splash of vinegar for acidity.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this cioppino ahead of time?

It's best to make cioppino fresh as seafood can become tough when reheated. However, you can prepare the broth in advance.