-A creamy, indulgent seafood chowder that brings the elegance of the coast to your kitchen
Introduction
This Lobster & Scallop Chowder is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something special. With sweet chunks of lobster, buttery seared scallops, and a velvety broth infused with garlic, thyme, and cream, it’s a bowl of pure comfort and luxury.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something soul-warming and rich, this chowder delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a homemade touch. Serve it with crusty bread and a glass of white wine, and you’ve got a coastal feast that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients
- ½ lb lobster meat, chopped
- ½ lb sea scallops
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups seafood or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Scallops
Pat scallops dry with a paper towel. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sear scallops for 1–2 minutes per side until golden edges form. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 3–5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Base
Sprinkle flour over the aromatics and stir to form a light roux. Gradually whisk in the broth until smooth. Add diced potatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seafood
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Gently fold in the cooked scallops and chopped lobster meat. Simmer for 5 minutes to warm through—avoid boiling to keep the seafood tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let the chowder rest off heat for a few minutes to deepen the flavor. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with a warm baguette or oyster crackers
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
- Add a side salad with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast
Variations
- Add corn kernels for sweetness and texture
- Swap potatoes for cauliflower for a low-carb twist
- Use shrimp or crab meat if lobster isn’t available
- Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for heat
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently over low heat—avoid boiling to preserve seafood texture
- Not recommended for freezing due to cream content, which may separate
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 4–5 generous portions
Final Thoughts
This Lobster & Scallop Chowder is a celebration of coastal flavors and creamy comfort. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this chowder is guaranteed to impress.