Looking for a delicious and easy clam chowder recipe? Look no further! This recipe is perfect for cozy nights in, family dinners, or even special occasions. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of smoky bacon, tender clams, and hearty potatoes creates a flavorful and comforting dish.
- This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- It’s perfect for meal prep – simply store leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredient Notes:
- Strips of bacon add a smoky flavor to the chowder.
- Butter and garlic provide a rich base for the soup.
- Thyme adds a subtle herbaceous note.
- All-purpose flour helps thicken the chowder.
- Chicken broth and clam juice create a savory broth.
- Potatoes add heartiness to the dish.
- Half-and-half lends creaminess.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove and crumble for serving.
- Saute butter, garlic, and onion until translucent. Add thyme and cook until fragrant.
- Whisk in flour, then slowly add broth, clam juice, and bay leaf. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add potatoes and simmer until tender.
- Stir in half-and-half and clams, then simmer until heated through.
- Adjust consistency with a slurry if needed, season with salt and pepper.
- Serve topped with bacon and parsley.
Helpful Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use fresh clams instead of canned.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a complete meal.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- To enhance the flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- For a lighter version, use milk instead of half-and-half.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this clam chowder with a side salad or a crusty baguette for a well-rounded meal. A crisp white wine or a light lager complements the flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store leftovers, transfer the chowder to an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh clams instead of canned? Yes, use 2 heaping cups of chopped fresh clams with 1 cup of clam juice.
- How long will this chowder stay fresh in the refrigerator? It will keep for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this clam chowder? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion:
Now that you have the recipe for this easy and delicious clam chowder, give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup. Don’t forget to share your feedback and any variations you try – happy cooking!
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Easy Clam Chowder Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Clam Chowder Recipe is a comforting and creamy soup loaded with tender clams, potatoes, and crispy bacon. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 5 strips bacon
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans chopped clams
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups half-and-half
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Bacon: Cook bacon in a pot until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- Add Butter and Aromatics: Sauté garlic, onion, and thyme in butter until fragrant.
- Thicken Broth: Whisk in flour, then slowly add chicken broth, clam juice, and bay leaf. Simmer with potatoes until tender.
- Finish Chowder: Stir in half-and-half, clams, and seasonings. Adjust consistency if needed.
- Serve: Top with bacon and parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh clams as an alternative to canned.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg