New England Clam Chowder

This New England Clam Chowder is a rich and creamy soup made with tender clams, hearty potatoes, and a velvety broth. The chowder delivers that comforting, indulgent taste, perfect for cozy nights. The flavor-packed broth, made with seafood stock, clams, and fresh herbs, brings the ultimate satisfaction in each spoonful. It’s quick to make and an ideal meal for seafood lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chowder is full of flavor, thanks to the natural sweetness of the clams and the creamy texture from the heavy cream. The combination of fresh vegetables and seasonings provides a rich depth that makes each bite absolutely comforting. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a cozy bowl of soup. The best part? It’s super easy to make and comes together in less than 45 minutes!

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 3 cups chicken broth or clam juice

• 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• 2 (6.5-ounce) cans chopped clams, drained (reserve the juice if using)

• 1 ½ cups heavy cream

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Melt the Butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.

• Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and celery, and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.

• Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Make the Roux

• Add the Flour: Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a roux (a thick paste to help thicken the chowder).

3. Add Liquids and Potatoes

• Pour in Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth or reserved clam juice while stirring to prevent lumps.

• Add Potatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

• Cook the Potatoes: Let the chowder simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

4. Add Clams and Cream

• Add Clams: Stir in the chopped clams and heavy cream. Mix well and let it warm through for another 5 minutes, but don’t let it boil.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.

5. Serve

• Ladle the chowder into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

1. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, leeks, or corn for added texture and flavor.

2. Vegan Option: For a dairy-free and vegan version, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

3. Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to give the chowder a spicy kick.

4. Lobster Chowder: Swap the clams with lobster meat for a decadent lobster chowder.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of extra broth or milk if the chowder becomes too thick. The chowder can also be frozen (without the cream) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add the cream after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh clams. Steam them open, chop them, and use the clam juice in place of the canned juice for extra flavor.

Can I make this chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chowder ahead of time. Let it cool, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat before serving. The flavors may even develop more overnight.

Can I freeze this chowder?

It’s not recommended to freeze chowder with cream in it, as the texture can change. However, you can freeze the base (without the cream) and add the cream when reheating.

How do I know when the potatoes are done?

The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender and can be easily pierced with a knife.

Can I make this chowder spicier?

Yes, if you like a little heat, you can add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chowder for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This New England Clam Chowder is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for seafood lovers. With tender clams, hearty potatoes, and a smooth, velvety broth, this chowder will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a special meal, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

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