New England Clam Chowder

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

New England Clam Chowder is a creamy, comforting soup that brings together tender clams, potatoes, and celery in a rich and savory broth. This classic New England dish is beloved for its smooth, velvety texture and deliciously mild flavor. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, offering a satisfying balance of flavors with just the right amount of creaminess.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

fresh clams (shucked, or use canned clams with juice)
unsalted butter
yellow onion (chopped)
celery (chopped)
garlic (minced)
potatoes (peeled and diced)
all-purpose flour
chicken or vegetable broth
whole milk
heavy cream
fresh thyme
bay leaves
salt and pepper
fresh parsley (for garnish)
crispy bacon (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Prepare the Clams: If using fresh clams, steam them in a large pot with a bit of water until they open. Remove the clams from their shells, and reserve the clam juice. If using canned clams, simply drain them and set aside, saving the clam juice.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for 2-3 minutes. This will help thicken the chowder.
4. Add the Liquids: Slowly add the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the broth is fully incorporated, pour in the reserved clam juice (if using canned clams, add that now), and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes, fresh thyme, and bay leaves. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Finish the Soup: Lower the heat and stir in the whole milk and heavy cream. Add the clams and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the soup is heated through. Remove the bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and crispy bacon (if using). Serve hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 40-50 minutes

Variations

• Bacon: For added flavor, cook bacon and crumble it into the soup, or use it as a garnish.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the clams, using more potatoes or mushrooms for texture.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
• Thickened with Cornstarch: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can use cornstarch (dissolved in a little cold water) instead of flour.

storage/reheating

Store leftover New England Clam Chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling the soup once the cream has been added to prevent it from separating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen clams?
Yes, you can use frozen clams, but be sure to thaw them first and reserve any liquid to add to the soup.

Can I make the chowder ahead of time?
Yes, New England Clam Chowder can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What if I can’t find fresh clams?
Canned clams work well in this recipe. Just make sure to save the clam juice, which adds great flavor to the chowder.

Can I freeze New England Clam Chowder?
This chowder can be frozen, but the creaminess may change slightly once thawed. If you plan to freeze it, omit the cream and add it after reheating.

Can I make this without flour for a gluten-free version?
Yes, you can use cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the soup instead of flour. Make sure to use gluten-free broth.

Conclusion

New England Clam Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, with its creamy texture, tender clams, and hearty vegetables. It’s a classic recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl on a chilly day or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, this chowder will deliver rich, comforting flavors every time.

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