Lobster & Scallop Chowder Bliss

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Creamy Coastal Comfort in Every Spoonful

Treat yourself to the rich flavors of the sea with this Lobster & Scallop Chowder Bliss. Loaded with tender lobster, sweet scallops, hearty potatoes, and a velvety cream broth, this luxurious seafood chowder recipe tastes like something you’d order at a seaside restaurant. Despite its elegant presentation, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare in under an hour, making it perfect for holiday dinners, special occasions, or cozy nights when you want an unforgettable homemade meal.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 6

📝 Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cooked lobster meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 ounces sea scallops, patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 3 cups seafood stock
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

  • Large Dutch oven or soup pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon
  • Small skillet
  • Ladle

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

  1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a light roux.
  3. Gradually pour in the seafood stock while stirring to prevent lumps. Add the potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
  4. Bring the chowder to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. 🥔
  5. While the chowder simmers, heat a small skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sear the scallops for 1½–2 minutes per side, until they develop a golden crust and are just cooked through. Remove from the heat. 😊
  6. Stir the milk and heavy cream into the chowder. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, making sure it does not boil.
  7. Gently fold in the chopped lobster and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until heated through.
  8. Add the seared scallops, lemon juice, and parsley. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper.
  9. Remove the bay leaf and ladle the chowder into warm bowls. Garnish with extra parsley, cracked black pepper, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. 🦞

💡 Pro Tips

  • Pat the scallops completely dry before searing for the best golden crust.
  • Avoid boiling the chowder after adding the dairy to keep the texture silky and smooth.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the seafood from becoming tough.

🌿 Variations

  • Corn Chowder: Add 1 cup sweet corn for extra sweetness and texture.
  • Bacon-Free Smoky Flavor: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika and roasted garlic for deeper flavor.
  • Herb Lover’s Version: Add fresh dill, chives, or tarragon before serving.
  • Spicy Seafood Chowder: Increase the cayenne and add a few dashes of hot sauce.

❓FAQ

Can I use frozen seafood?
Yes. Thaw the lobster and scallops completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

Can I substitute shrimp?
Absolutely. Shrimp works beautifully alongside or in place of the scallops.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for the freshest texture, add the lobster and scallops just before serving.

What should I serve with chowder?
Crusty artisan bread, oyster crackers, a simple green salad, or homemade herb focaccia pair perfectly.

❤️ Final Thoughts

This Lobster & Scallop Chowder Bliss is rich, creamy, and packed with tender seafood in every spoonful. It’s the perfect recipe for holiday entertaining, date nights, or whenever you’re craving an elegant bowl of comfort. Serve it with warm crusty bread and savor a restaurant-quality seafood chowder made right in your own kitchen.

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