As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Nothing comforts quite like a steaming bowl of creamy clam chowder. This recipe features tender clams, smoky bacon, and a silky broth that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings, this New England–style chowder is guaranteed to bring a bit of coastal charm to your table.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups clam juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cans (6.5 ounces each) chopped clams (with liquid)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Start by placing a sturdy pot over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook them until they turn crisp and release their smoky drippings. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel–lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
Melt the butter in the same pan, then stir in the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, taking care not to let the garlic burn. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir continuously to form a roux. Once the flour is lightly golden, slowly pour in the clam juice while whisking to avoid lumps.
Add the diced potatoes, return the crispy bacon pieces to the pot, and stir in the dried thyme. Let the chowder simmer until the potatoes soften, about 15 minutes. Finally, reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the heavy cream and canned clams (with their liquid). Allow it all to heat through for a few more minutes, adding salt and pepper to taste. Serve piping hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like.
This hearty clam chowder is a godsend for cold nights or whenever you crave something cozy. It’s ideal for seafood lovers but can be easily adapted for anyone watching their fat intake by swapping the heavy cream for half-and-half. If you prefer a thicker chowder, simply increase the amount of flour or reduce the liquid. Whatever your preference, this warming classic will give you the satisfying taste of the sea in every spoonful.
