Jump to Recipe Print RecipeOn a chilly evening, nothing feels more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy New England clam chowder. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, this iconic dish brings the essence of coastal comfort food straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting friends or seeking a cozy night in, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also adaptable to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and keto-friendly options. Imagine ladling out a soup brimming with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and delightful clams—perfect for nourishing the soul. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a heartwarming chowder that’s sure to become a cherished favorite. How do you like to customize your clam chowder? How can you customize clam chowder? Customization options abound! This creamy chowder lends itself to countless variations—whether you’re going traditional or gluten-free. Flavorful clams blend seamlessly with the richness of bacon and potatoes, creating a satisfying dish that warms from the inside out. You might even enjoy serving it in a bread bowl for an extra special touch! And if you’re looking for lighter fare, why not try a healthier twist by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk? For another delicious meal, pair your chowder with a fresh garden salad or finish off with the sweetness of Honey Cheesecake. Each option adds a unique twist to this comforting classic! Creamy New England Clam Chowder Ingredients For the Chowder Base • Bacon – Adds savory depth and crunch; substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option. • Butter – Provides richness to create a roux; can replace with olive oil for a dairy-free version. • Onion – Introduces sweetness and aroma; yellow or white onions work best. • Celery – Adds crunch and flavor contrast; omit for a simpler taste or substitute with fennel for a sweeter hint. • Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; use garlic powder in smaller amounts if fresh garlic is unavailable. • All-purpose Flour – Essential for thickening the chowder; substitute with cornstarch or gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. • Chicken Broth/Clam Juice – Provides a flavorful base; choose clam juice for more intense seafood flavor. • Russet Potatoes – Contributes creaminess and texture; Yukon Gold can be used for a buttery taste. • Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste, especially if using broth with added salt. • Black Pepper – Adds spice; freshly ground for the best flavor. • Dried Thyme – Infuses herby aroma; use fresh thyme for a more vibrant flavor. • Chopped Clams (canned) – Main protein source; provides oceanic taste; substitute with fresh clams if desired. • Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, velvety texture; replace with half-and-half for a lighter option, or coconut milk for non-dairy. For Serving • Crumbled Bacon – Utilize crispy cooked bacon as a flavorful garnish; adds texture and richness. • Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or cilantro can brighten the dish; sprinkle on top before serving. • Oyster Crackers – Perfect for crunchy texture; serve alongside for dipping. Each of these ingredients contributes to the delightful experience of enjoying a creamy New England clam chowder that is sure to warm your soul! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy New England Clam Chowder Step 1: Cook the Bacon In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it turns golden and crispy, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and avoid burning. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate, leaving the flavorful grease in the pot for the next steps. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In the same pot with the reserved bacon grease, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables have softened and began to turn translucent. This will form a fragrant base for your creamy New England clam chowder. Step 3: Add Garlic Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can affect the flavor. The aroma should be delightful at this point, enhancing the base of your chowder. Step 4: Create the Roux Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken your chowder and add depth to the flavor. The mixture should look bubbly and slightly golden as it cooks, ensuring it is well combined with the vegetables. Step 5: Add Liquids Slowly pour in the chicken broth or reserved clam juice while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly. The chowder base is now coming together beautifully, ready to build upon. Step 6: Incorporate Potatoes and Seasoning Add the diced russet potatoes, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme into the pot. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, reduce to low and cook for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Step 7: Add Clams and Cream Mix in the chopped clams and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Heat the chowder through for about 5 minutes over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t boil. The cream will enrich the chowder, giving it a luxurious texture that defines a classic creamy New England clam chowder. Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve Taste the chowder and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. Ladle the hot chowder into bowls and garnish each serving with the reserved crispy bacon. Enjoy a comforting bowlful of creamy New England clam chowder, perfect for cozy nights! What to Serve with Creamy New England Clam Chowder There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chowder, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Crusty Bread Rolls: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of rich broth, these rolls add a satisfying texture and warmth to your meal. Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds brightness, crispness, and balances the creamy flavors beautifully. Oyster Crackers: These crunchy little bites are a classic pairing with chowder. They provide a delightful crunch, enhancing the chowder experience. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus lightly seasoned with olive oil complements the rich chowder, adding a refreshing, earthy taste. Classic Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw offers a nice crunch and tangy contrast, creating a delicious balance with the hearty chowder. White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc can elevate your dining experience, enhancing the seafood flavors in your chowder. Pairing these delightful options with your creamy New England clam chowder will make for an unforgettable meal, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. How to Store and Freeze Creamy New England Clam Chowder Fridge: Store your clam chowder in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain its creamy texture, gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed. Freezer: Freeze the chowder in a microwave-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. For a quick option, use the microwave’s defrost setting before reheating on the stove. Reheating: Heat gently on low to medium, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth and restoring that delightful creamy consistency. Expert Tips for Creamy New England Clam Chowder • Prevent Clumps: Whisk the flour thoroughly into the bacon grease to avoid lumps in your chowder. Gradual incorporation is key! • Quick Cooking: For a simple method, use a slow cooker. Cook all ingredients (except cream) on low for 6 hours, then stir in the cream before serving. • Cream Caution: Do not allow the chowder to boil after adding heavy cream; keep the temperature low to maintain a velvety texture. • Potato Prep: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor or try cauliflower for a keto-friendly, low-carb alternative in your creamy New England clam chowder. • Flavor Boost: Fresh cloves of garlic and herbs like thyme elevate the chowder’s taste. Don’t hesitate to use them for that extra aroma and richness! • Make-Ahead Meal: Chowder can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to restore creaminess without boiling. Make Ahead Options These creamy New England clam chowder preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop all your vegetables (onions, celery, and potatoes) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, pre-cook the bacon and reserve it to add just before serving, ensuring it stays crispy. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, simply follow the cooking instructions, adding your prepped ingredients and continuing from step 5. This way, you’ll have a delightful and savory chowder ready in no time, just as comforting as when you make it fresh! Creamy New England Clam Chowder Variations Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious chowder and take it to new heights of flavor and nutrition! Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy yet non-dairy alternative. It adds an unexpected hint of tropical flavor! Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for cornstarch mixed with water to thicken. This keeps the chowder luscious without gluten! Keto-Friendly: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a low-carb version that still delivers a satisfying texture and great taste. You won’t miss the carbs! Extra Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or corn for added sweetness and texture—plus, it makes the chowder even more colorful! Herb Infusion: Fresh dill or parsley can elevate the flavors tremendously. Just sprinkle some on top before serving for an aromatic boost! Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or scallops alongside your clams for heightened oceanic goodness. This extra seafood will bring a delightful complexity to each bowl. Spicy Kick: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce can really wake up the chowder. Balance the flavors and add heat to suit your taste! Creamy Potato Variation: Switch to Yukon Gold potatoes for a buttery flavor that blends exquisitely with the whole chowder experience. Each spoonful will be blissful! No matter how you choose to customize your creamy New England clam chowder, every variation can lead to delightful new experiences. Consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or finishing your meal with a luscious Honey Cheesecake for a complete dining experience! Creamy New England Clam Chowder Recipe FAQs What type of clams should be used in clam chowder? Absolutely! You can use canned chopped clams for convenience, which provide a great seafood flavor and save prep time. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh clams can be used for a more robust taste, but keep in mind that you’ll need to clean, scrub, and steam them beforehand, adding to your cooking time. How can I store leftover clam chowder? Very easily! Store your creamy New England clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat gently on the stove, and adding a splash of cream can help restore its original velvety texture. Just remember to keep it at low heat to avoid curdling. Can I freeze clam chowder? Yes, you can! When freezing, pour the chowder into a microwave-safe container, ensuring there’s some space at the top as the chowder will expand. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting. What if my chowder is too thick? If you find that your chowder is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add some chicken broth or water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Heat it gently on low while stirring to combine, and taste to adjust the seasoning afterward. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. If you have dairy allergies, you can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, ensuring a delightful chowder that fits your dietary needs. How can I ensure the best flavor from my ingredients? The key to an amazing creamy New England clam chowder is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Always opt for fresh garlic, and don’t skip on sautéing the mirepoix (onion, celery) thoroughly to develop a rich base. Adding fresh herbs like thyme can elevate the flavors even more, creating a chowder that’s truly memorable. Enjoy cooking! Hearty Creamy New England Clam Chowder That'll Warm Your Soul No ratings yet Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy New England clam chowder, perfect for chilly evenings and adaptable for various dietary needs. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SoupCuisine: New EnglandCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Chowder Base6 slices Bacon Adds savory depth and crunch; substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option.2 tablespoons Butter Provides richness; can replace with olive oil for a dairy-free version.1 medium Onion Introduces sweetness and aroma; yellow or white works best.2 stalks Celery Adds crunch and flavor; omit or substitute with fennel if desired.2 cloves Garlic Enhances overall flavor; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.1/4 cup All-purpose Flour Essential for thickening; substitute with cornstarch for gluten-free.4 cups Chicken Broth or Clam Juice Choose clam juice for more seafood flavor.2 large Russet Potatoes Contributes creaminess; Yukon Gold for a buttery taste.to taste Salt Adjust according to broth salt content.1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds spice; freshly ground recommended.1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Infuses herby aroma; fresh thyme can be used.2 cups Chopped Clams (canned) Substitute with fresh clams if desired.1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a rich texture; replace with half-and-half for lighter option.For Serving1/2 cup Crumbled Bacon Flavorful garnish; adds texture.2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs Chopped parsley or cilantro brighten the dish.1 cup Oyster Crackers Perfect for crunchy texture. Equipment large pot Method Preparation StepsCook the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate, leaving grease in the pot.In the pot with the bacon grease, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.Add all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux, ensuring it is well combined.Slowly pour in chicken broth or clam juice while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir for 2-3 minutes until smooth.Add diced russet potatoes, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes until tender.Mix in chopped clams and heavy cream, heating through for about 5 minutes without boiling.Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle chowder into bowls and garnish with reserved bacon. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesCustomize with lighter ingredients, bread bowls, or serve with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
