Description
This Easy Creamy Seafood and Shrimp Chili is a comforting and flavorful dish combining shrimp, scallops, and tilapia in a rich, cheesy broth. Perfect for seafood lovers looking for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare and full of creamy goodness, with a gentle kick of chili seasoning for warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 pound Scallops
- 1 pound Tilapia (or any white fish)
Dairy
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (e.g., cheddar)
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 can Canned Beans (e.g., white beans)
- 1 medium Onion (diced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
Liquids & Spices
- 4 cups Broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Chili Seasoning
- 1/4 cup Basil or Cilantro (optional, fresh herbs)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat a pot over medium heat and add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Seafood: Add the shrimp, scallops, and tilapia into the pot. Cook the seafood until it turns just opaque, approximately 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese and Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheese until they melt completely and blend smoothly with the seafood and onions, creating a creamy base.
- Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the canned beans. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season the Chili: Add cayenne pepper and chili seasoning to the pot, adjusting the cayenne pepper amount according to your desired spice level. Stir to distribute the spices evenly.
- Simmer: Allow the chili to simmer gently on low heat for about 25 minutes. This slow simmer lets the flavors meld together perfectly and the chili thicken slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish the chili with fresh basil or cilantro if desired. Serve the chili hot alongside crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute any white fish if tilapia is unavailable.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
- For a dairy-free version, omit cream cheese and shredded cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
- Adding crusty bread or rice helps soak up the creamy chili and makes the dish more filling.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
