Classic Italian-American Cioppino Seafood Stew

Name: Classic Italian-American Cioppino Seafood Stew
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 white fish fillets, cut into chunks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups fish stock; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

A hearty and flavorful seafood stew that brings the taste of the Italian coast to your dinner table.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-06T18:37:53.853Z

This Classic Italian-American Cioppino Seafood Stew is a celebration of the freshest seafood, simmered in a rich tomato broth. Originating from the fishing communities of San Francisco, this dish has become a beloved staple for seafood lovers.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful array of fresh seafood flavors
Rich, savory broth that warms the soul
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner

      

A Taste of the Italian Coast

Cioppino is a classic Italian-American dish that originated in San Francisco, inspired by the traditional seafood stews of Italian fishermen. This hearty stew is a celebration of the sea, featuring a variety of fresh seafood cooked in a rich, flavorful broth. Its robust flavors and comforting nature make it a beloved choice for seafood lovers and anyone looking to bring a taste of the Italian coast to their dining table.

The beauty of cioppino lies in its versatility. You can customize the seafood selection based on your preferences and what’s available at your local market. The combination of shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish creates a beautiful medley of textures and flavors that come together harmoniously in each bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this stew is sure to impress.

The Perfect Broth

The broth is the heart of any great cioppino, and this recipe delivers a savory, aromatic base that enhances the natural flavors of the seafood. Using high-quality fish stock and a good dry white wine elevates the broth, contributing depth and richness. The addition of crushed tomatoes brings a touch of sweetness, while oregano and red pepper flakes add layers of flavor that make every spoonful memorable.

Simmering the broth allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. This is the perfect opportunity to gather friends and family, as the enticing scent of cioppino cooking can draw anyone to the dinner table. Pair it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth.

Serving Suggestions

Cioppino is best enjoyed hot, served in generous bowls with plenty of crusty bread on the side. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, making it a delightful experience for everyone at the table. For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad or some grilled vegetables as a side dish to complement the stew's bold flavors.

To elevate your cioppino even further, don't hesitate to sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This adds a lovely creaminess that balances the savory seafood. A glass of chilled white wine pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the overall dining experience and making your gathering feel extra special.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Seafood Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb mussels, cleaned
1 lb clams, cleaned
1 lb white fish fillets, cut into chunks

Broth Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups fish stock
1 cup dry white wine
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensure all seafood is fresh and sourced sustainably for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Cioppino that will impress your guests!

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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Tomatoes and Stock

Add the crushed tomatoes, fish stock, and white wine to the pot. Stir in the oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes.

Add the Seafood

Add the shrimp, mussels, clams, and fish to the pot. Cover and cook until the seafood is cooked through and the mussels and clams have opened, about 10 minutes.

Serve the Cioppino

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

Enjoy your Cioppino with a glass of white wine for a truly authentic experience!

Expert Tips for Making Cioppino

To ensure the best flavor and texture, always use the freshest seafood possible. If you have access to a local fish market, that’s the best place to find high-quality ingredients. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of seafood; calamari, scallops, and crab can all be great additions to this stew.

Don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the broth to simmer gently and the seafood to cook just until done. Overcooking can result in rubbery seafood, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of your cioppino. Remember, the key is to let the ingredients shine through.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, cioppino can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the seafood's texture.

Freezing cioppino is also an option, though it’s best to freeze it without the seafood. Prepare the broth and freeze it in portions, adding the seafood when you're ready to enjoy it again. This way, you preserve the quality of the seafood and ensure a fantastic meal every time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood can be used, but ensure it is thawed completely before cooking.

→ What other seafood can I add?

Feel free to add scallops, crab, or even squid for more variety.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the broth ahead and add seafood just before serving.

→ What should I serve with Cioppino?

Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal.