Cheddar Seafood Chowder

Total Time

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 20 min.

Makes

6 servings

Updated: Jun. 30, 2023
Shrimp and scallops make this thick, cheesy and chunky chowder extra special. It’s packed with veggies, and the crispy bacon makes a yummy garnish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Cheddar Seafood Chowder Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 6 bacon strips, chopped
  • 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup chopped sweet orange pepper
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) chicken broth
  • 2 cups 2% milk
  • 2 medium red potatoes, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 pound bay scallops
  • 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove to paper towels with a slotted spoon; drain, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings.
  2. In the drippings, saute the celery, orange pepper and onion until crisp-tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in flour until blended; gradually add broth and milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1 minute or until thickened.
  3. Add the potatoes, seafood seasoning and salt; return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
  4. Add shrimp and scallops; cook and stir for 3-4 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and scallops are opaque. Stir in cheese until melted. Garnish each serving with bacon.

Nutrition Facts

1 cup: 309 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 104mg cholesterol, 981mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 26g protein.