Ah, clam chowder—a comforting oceanic delight that’s perfect for cozy weekends or family gatherings. This rich and creamy soup not only warms your soul but also brings a taste of coastal charm right into your kitchen. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a chilly winter evening, diving into a steaming bowl of clam chowder feels like a warm hug. Plus, making it from scratch allows you to control the flavors and ingredients, resulting in a dish that’s tailored just to your liking.
Why you’ll love this dish
What sets this clam chowder apart? It’s a simple yet luxurious dish that combines the savory essence of bacon and the briny notes of clams with a creamy backdrop. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests during a festive holiday gathering, this recipe shines in any setting. Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly and sure to please even the pickiest eaters—kids and adults alike.
"This clam chowder was absolutely delicious! The flavors were spot on, and I loved the creamy texture. It’s officially in my regular recipe rotation!"
Step-by-step overview
Creating clam chowder is a straightforward process that’s well within reach, even if you’re a novice in the kitchen. You’ll start by browning crispy bacon to lay the foundation for your soup’s flavor. After sautéing some aromatic veggies, you’ll thicken the base and let it come together with the addition of clams and potatoes. The entire process takes about 30-40 minutes, making this recipe perfect even for busy week nights.
What you’ll need
- 6 slices of lean bacon, cut into half-inch strips
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery ribs, finely diced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- 1.5 cups of canned chopped clams, drained
- 1 bay leaf
- 1.5 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1.5 teaspoons of salt
- 0.25 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1.5 pounds of potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)
(Feel free to swap bacon for a vegetarian option like smoked paprika, or use vegetable broth to make it veggie-friendly.)
