A creamy, comforting chowder featuring tender sea scallops, potatoes, and corn in a rich broth, perfect for a cozy dinner.
15 min prep
30 min cook
4 servings
520 kcal/serving
Ingredients
1 lb sea scallops, side muscles removed
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup frozen corn kernels
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Pat scallops dry and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving drippings in pot.
Add butter to pot. Sauté onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream until smooth. Add potatoes, corn, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
While chowder simmers, sear scallops: heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil. Cook scallops 2-3 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
Stir scallops and bacon into chowder. Season with salt and pepper. Serve garnished with parsley.
Tips
Use dry-packed scallops for better searing.
Chowder can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently.
Add a splash of white wine with the broth for extra flavor.