There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of chowder on a brisk evening—especially when it’s brimming with the flavors of the sea. My first taste of Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder took me straight to a quaint coastal restaurant, where the salty sea air mingled with the rich scents of garlic and thyme. This heavenly dish is not only a treat for the senses, but it also captures the essence of comfort food like nothing else.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next dinner party or simply craving a cozy night in with a recipe that feels special, this chowder is the perfect choice. In under an hour, you can whip up a thick, creamy bowl filled with tender lobster and delicate scallops, transporting you to the shores of New England without ever leaving your kitchen. Get ready to dive in and savor each delicious spoonful!
Why Love Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder?
Comforting Delight: This chowder wraps you in warmth, reminiscent of cozy coastal dinners.
Quick to Make: Whip up a sumptuous dish in just under an hour!
Seafood Stars: Featuring tender lobster and delicate scallops, it brings the ocean to your table.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Perfect for anyone seeking gluten-free options without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd Pleaser: Wow your guests with this rich recipe, perfect for any gathering.
Pair it with a fresh salad or warm crusty bread to elevate your dining experience!
Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder Ingredients
For the Base
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and prevents sticking during cooking.
- Onion – Provides a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the chowder’s flavor.
- Celery – Contributes depth and a refreshing crunch to every bite.
- Garlic – Infuses the chowder with a robust aroma and savory essence.
- Thyme – Packs earthy notes that elevate the chowder’s flavor profile.
For the Rest of the Chowder
- Potatoes – Adds creaminess and body, perfect for a hearty soup.
- Seafood Stock – Serves as the delicious foundation of the chowder; opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought for best results.
- Heavy Cream – Delivers luxurious richness; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Lobster Meat – Sweet, tender bites are essential; fresh is ideal, but canned works when drained properly.
- Scallops – Introduces delicate texture and a sweet, subtle taste.
- Salt and Pepper – Fundamental seasonings that enhance all the flavors in this chowder.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Provides a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich chowder.
This Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder is a bowl of warm comfort waiting to be savored!
How to Make Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. This establishes a sweet, aromatic base that forms the foundation of the chowder.
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Stir in minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, providing a hint of what’s to come.
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Add the diced potatoes and pour in the seafood stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy texture in your chowder.
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Stir in the heavy cream, folding it into the mixture before adding the lobster and scallops. Cook for another 5 minutes until the seafood is opaque and cooked through, infusing the broth with irresistible flavors.
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Season with salt and pepper, ladle the chowder into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley. This final touch adds a lovely burst of color and freshness to your dish.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful combination.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder in advance is an excellent way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop the onions, celery, and garlic up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can pre-cook the potatoes and store them separately, preventing them from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the sautéed vegetables, add the prepped potatoes, seafood stock, and heavy cream, and follow through with the cooking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, comforting chowder that’s just as delightful as if you made it from scratch that day!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder
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Room Temperature: For best flavor and safety, do not leave leftover chowder out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore its rich consistency.
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Freezer: Freeze serving portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a perfectly creamy chowder.
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Reheating: When reheating, do so on low heat while stirring frequently to maintain texture. Avoid boiling to preserve the delicate seafood flavors in your creamy lobster & scallop chowder.
Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder
Customize your chowder experience by exploring delightful twists that can enhance flavor or accommodate dietary preferences!
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Shrimp Swap: Replace scallops with shrimp for a delightful change in flavor and texture. Shrimp adds a sweet and briny taste that complements the creaminess of the chowder perfectly.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a luscious, dairy-free alternative. This also adds a subtle tropical flavor that unexpectedly brightens your chowder!
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Vegetable Boost: Add sweet corn or green peas for a hint of sweetness and a pop of color. Not only do they enrich the chowder, but they offer contrasting textures that add to the overall experience.
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Smoky Essence: Incorporate a dash of smoked paprika for an exciting, savory flare. This will deepen the flavor profile and bring a warmth that is sure to impress!
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Herb Medley: Experiment with fresh dill or tarragon alongside thyme for a fresh herbal twist. Each herb introduces its unique scent and flavor, making your chowder even more aromatic.
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Heat Factor: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. This addition transforms the chowder into a comforting dish with a zesty surprise.
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Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb version of the chowder. It provides a creamy texture without the extra carbs, keeping your meal satisfying!
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Fishy Treat: Add crab meat along with lobster for a seafood extravaganza that’s packed with flavor. The combination of crab and lobster brings a luxurious element to this already delightful dish.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to make the chowder your own! Each suggestion is an invitation to explore new flavors and celebrate the joys of cooking at home.
What to Serve with Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder?
Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that complement the rich flavors of this chowder.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect vessel for soaking up the creamy broth, offering a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the chowder.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chowder and adds a touch of brightness.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: For a seafood feast, these succulent shrimp bring an extra layer of flavor, harmonizing perfectly with the chowder’s ocean essence.
- Roasted Asparagus: The slight char and earthy notes provide a delightful balance to the creamy chowder, adding both flavor and texture.
- Savory Cornbread: The sweet elements of cornbread provide a comforting, homey side that complements the savory depth of the chowder.
- Chardonnay: A crisp, chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the seafood flavors, making each sip a refreshing accompaniment to the chowder.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy slaw offers a refreshing contrast, adding a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness to your meal.
- Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie ushers in a touch of sweetness, perfectly capping off a maritime feast with comforting goodness.
Expert Tips for Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder
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Fresh Seafood: Always opt for fresh lobster and scallops for the best flavor and texture. If using canned, ensure they’re thoroughly drained and rinsed.
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Simmer Wisely: Keep a close eye while simmering—prevent boiling over by adjusting the heat as needed. A gentle simmer is key for rich flavors.
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Thickening Trick: If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a portion and stir back into the pot, or use a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired consistency.
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Seasoning Balance: Taste your chowder before serving and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall flavor. Small adjustments can make a big difference!
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Wine Pairing: Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy lobster & scallop chowder with a crisp white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe seafood?
Absolutely! When selecting lobster and scallops, look for seafood that has a fresh, ocean-like smell—nothing too “fishy.” Fresh lobster should have a firm shell and should feel heavy for its size. Scallops should be plump and slightly translucent with no dark spots. Avoid any seafood with an off-putting odor or signs of discoloration.
How should I store leftover chowder?
Very simple! Store your creamy lobster & scallop chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing it. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this chowder?
Yes, you can! To freeze your chowder, portion it into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, do this on low heat while stirring frequently to avoid boiling the seafood.
What should I do if my chowder is too thin?
No worries, that can happen! If your chowder is not as thick as you’d like, you can blend a portion of it in a blender or use an immersion blender to create a creamy base. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the chowder and simmer until thickened.
Is this recipe suitable for someone with seafood allergies?
Not at all! This chowder contains shellfish, which many people are allergic to. If you’re cooking for anyone with seafood allergies, I recommend making a vegetable chowder or a chicken-based alternative to ensure safety.
How can I enhance the flavor of my chowder?
Absolutely, flavor enhancement is a great idea! Taste your chowder before serving and make adjustments by adding more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs. A touch of lemon juice can brighten up the whole dish. Pairing it with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay elevates the experience as well.
Creamy Lobster & Scallop Chowder for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes and pour in the seafood stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, folding it into the mixture before adding the lobster and scallops. Cook for another 5 minutes until the seafood is opaque.
- Season with salt and pepper, ladle the chowder into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley.