Meals (Cheddar Seafood Chowder)

By chefbobby

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 (6 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation

Step 1

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.
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.

2) 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.
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.