A Taste of Nova Scotia in Every Bowl

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! Nova Scotia Seafood Chowder is rich, creamy, and brimming with fresh seafood flavors. It’s a coastal classic that combines haddock, shrimp, scallops, and lobster into one hearty, comforting dish. Perfect for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Chowder

Unlike complicated seafood recipes, this chowder comes together in just 40 minutes. The combination of seafood broth, cream, tender potatoes, and succulent seafood creates a balance of flavors that’s both elegant and comforting. Each spoonful tastes like the Atlantic coast in a bowl.

Perfect for Family Dinners or Entertaining

Whether you serve it with crusty bread for a family dinner or as a starter for a special occasion, this chowder is guaranteed to impress. It’s hearty enough to be the main course, yet refined enough for entertaining.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 4 cups seafood broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ lb haddock, cut into chunks
• ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ lb scallops
• ½ cup cooked lobster meat (optional)
• 1 cup corn kernels
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until soft.
2. Add diced potatoes and seafood broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 10 minutes).
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir well.
4. Add haddock, shrimp, scallops, and lobster (if using). Simmer for 5–7 minutes until seafood is cooked through.
5. Stir in corn, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with bread.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 of 4)

• Calories: ~420
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

What is the best seafood to use in chowder?

Haddock, shrimp, scallops, and lobster are traditional, but you can also add clams or cod depending on availability.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but heavy cream makes the chowder richer and creamier. For a lighter option, use half-and-half.

How do I thicken seafood chowder?

If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash a few of the potatoes in the pot or stir in 1 tbsp of flour mixed with cream.

Can I freeze seafood chowder?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Note that cream-based chowders may separate slightly when reheated.

What should I serve with seafood chowder?

Crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a side salad make perfect pairings for this creamy chowder.