Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Scallop Chowder Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s both quick to prepare and full of flavor, you’ll love this Instant Pot Scallop Chowder recipe.
It’s the perfect blend of creamy goodness and savory ingredients, making it a hit with my family. The Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time, so I can whip it up even on busy weeknights.
Plus, the combination of scallops, bacon, and fresh herbs creates a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen.
Every spoonful is packed with warmth and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings with loved ones.
Ingredients of Instant Pot Scallop Chowder
When it comes to whipping up a cozy bowl of chowder, the right ingredients are key. This Instant Pot Scallop Chowder is no exception, bringing together a harmonious blend of flavors that will have you thinking about second helpings before you’ve even finished your first.
Prepare to gather some hearty staples and a few delightful extras that elevate this dish from simple to sensational. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this creamy masterpiece.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Scallop Chowder:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks
- 1 1/2 lbs bay scallops
- 2 chopped celery ribs
- 1 chopped yellow onion
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup clam juice
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons minced chives
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 3 slices bacon
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, Yukon Gold potatoes are a fantastic choice for chowder because they’re creamy and hold their shape well.
Trust me, you don’t want your potatoes turning to mush in the pressure cooker. As for the bay scallops, they add a sweet, delicate flavor that really shines through, but feel free to substitute with larger sea scallops if you prefer — just remember to adjust the cooking time a tad.
And don’t skimp on the fresh herbs; they not only brighten up the dish but also make your kitchen smell divine. Oh, and the bacon? Well, that’s just the cherry on top, adding a savory crunch that complements the creaminess beautifully.
How to Make Instant Pot Scallop Chowder
Making Instant Pot Scallop Chowder is easier than you might think, and trust me, it’s worth the little bit of effort. First, let’s set the stage by frying up 3 slices of bacon in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Let it get nice and crispy; the aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water.
Once that’s done, move the bacon to a plate (don’t forget to resist the urge to nibble on it—at least until the chowder is ready), and melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pot. This step is essential because those bacon drippings will infuse the butter with flavor, and that’s going to elevate your chowder.
Now, toss in 2 chopped celery ribs and 1 chopped yellow onion, cooking them until they’re soft and fragrant. This is the base of your chowder, and it’s where the magic starts to happen.
Once you’re happy with how they look and smell, pour in 1 cup of clam juice, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 1/2 cup of dry white wine. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it—trust me, those little bits are flavor gold.
Next, add 2 lbs of cut Yukon Gold potatoes along with 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves and 2 bay leaves. Secure the lid, lock it in place, and set the pressure cooker to high for 7 minutes.
When the timer goes off, hit cancel and do a quick release of the steam. Carefully open the lid (and try not to burn your eyebrows off in the process). This is where the fun really begins.
Stir everything together, and then switch the Instant Pot to the sauté setting again. Crumble the bacon back in and add in the 1 1/2 lbs of bay scallops, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of minced chives, and 1/4 cup of chopped parsley.
Cook it all together for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly—this is the part where you get to watch your chowder transform into something warm and creamy. Don’t forget to fish out the bay leaves; they’ve done their job.
Scoop yourself a generous portion, sit back, and enjoy the comfort of a delicious bowl of chowder. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, and you made it all by yourself. How great is that?
Instant Pot Scallop Chowder Substitutions & Variations
After savoring that warm, creamy chowder, you might find yourself wanting to mix things up a bit.
You can easily swap out the bay scallops for shrimp or even crab for a different seafood twist. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, replace the seafood with hearty veggies like corn or mushrooms.
For a lighter chowder, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. I love adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or experimenting with spices like Old Bay for an extra kick.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your favorite ingredients; it’s all about your personal taste!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Scallop Chowder
While enjoying a warm bowl of Instant Pot Scallop Chowder, I often think about what to pair with it for a complete meal.
A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the chowder beautifully. If I’m craving something heartier, I love serving crusty artisan bread for dipping.
Garlic bread is another favorite, adding a flavorful crunch. For a rejuvenating touch, consider pickled vegetables, which balance the creaminess of the chowder.
Finally, a glass of crisp white wine enhances the dish, making for a perfect pairing that elevates the entire dining experience.
Additional Tips & Notes
Sometimes, a few extra tips can elevate your Instant Pot Scallop Chowder to the next level.
First, consider using fresh scallops for a sweeter flavor; they really make a difference. If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
I also like to let the chowder sit for a few minutes after cooking—it thickens up nicely. For a richer taste, try substituting half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Finally, don’t forget to adjust the seasoning before serving; a sprinkle of salt or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the dish wonderfully.
Enjoy your chowder!