New England Clam Chowder

As the rich aroma of simmering bacon fills the kitchen, a sense of warmth and comfort envelops you. This New England Clam Chowder brings together creamy textures and savory flavors, making it a heartwarming dish that cooks in just about 30 minutes. The balance of bacon, clams, and cream creates a satisfying result that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a classic seafood dish, ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions. If you want to save time, feel free to prepare the chowder in advance and reheat it before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy bacon adds an irresistible crunch to each spoonful.
• Creamy consistency ensures a luxurious mouthfeel with every bite.
• It’s a quick recipe, ready in under 30 minutes.
• Using canned clams makes preparation simple and hassle-free.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious chowder.

For the Chowder

• 2 cups chopped potatoes
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cups clam juice
• 1 can (10 oz) clams, drained and chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Use low-sodium clam juice for less salt.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Potatoes: swap for cauliflower for a lower-carb version.
• Heavy cream: use half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Bacon: turkey bacon can be used for a leaner choice.
• Clams: fresh clams can replace canned ones.

How to Make It

Start your chowder adventure with these easy steps.

Cook bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.

Sauté vegetables

Add the onions, celery, and potatoes to the pot, cooking until soft.

Add clam juice

Pour in the clam juice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Stir in clams

Stir in the chopped clams, heavy cream, and milk. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat through

Heat through without boiling.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and fresh parsley.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, cream can separate upon thawing.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat for 10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Chop the vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
• Make sure to dice the bacon into small pieces for better crispiness.
• Simmer gently after adding cream to maintain a smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with buttered sourdough bread for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy at a cozy gathering or holiday feast for a comforting touch.