There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of New England clam chowder on a chilly day.
This creamy, comforting soup hails from the northeastern coast of the United States and has become a beloved staple in many homes.
With its tender clams, hearty potatoes, and rich broth, it’s a dish that warms both the body and soul.
Ingredient List
Don’t stress – we’re keeping this easy! Here’s everything you need to make a delicious New England clam chowder.
For the Chowder
- 4 slices of bacon (or turkey bacon)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) clam juice or homemade fish stock
- 2 cans (6.5 oz each) chopped clams, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For Substitutions
- Use cheddar or dairy-free cheese shreds instead of cream for a lighter option.
- For gluten-free: swap bacon with your favorite plant-based alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Cook the Bacon
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook 4 slices of bacon (about 120 grams) until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Sauté the Veggies
- Add 1 chopped onion and 1 cup (120 grams) of chopped celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
- Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Add the Potatoes
- Add 2 diced potatoes (about 300 grams) and pour in 2 cups (480 ml) of clam juice.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Combine the Clams
- Stir in 1 can (about 400 grams) of chopped clams and 1 cup (240 ml) of heavy cream.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Crisp the Bacon Topping
- While the chowder heats through, chop the reserved bacon and crisp it in a small pan for a topping.
- Serve
- Ladle the chowder into bowls and sprinkle with crispy bacon. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Time-Saving Hack: Use pre-chopped veggies to save 10 minutes.
Kid-Friendly Tip: Omit chili flakes for milder palates.
Make-Ahead Tip: Freeze unbaked – thaw overnight before cooking.
Recipe Notes & Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions:
- For creaminess: Use cheddar or dairy-free cheese (like cashew cream).
- For a lighter option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- To go meatless: Substitute traditional bacon with plant-based bacon.
- Dietary Tweaks:
- For gluten-free: Swap flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
- For a lower-sodium version: Use low-sodium clam juice and bacon.
- Kid-Friendly Adjustments:
- Omit chili flakes for milder palates.
- Add fun toppings like shredded cheese or crackers for a little crunch.
- Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare the chowder a day ahead. It will taste even better after resting!
- Freeze unbaked chowder in an airtight container. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Don’t stress – I have some easy serving suggestions that elevate your New England clam chowder!
-
Toppings:
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives for color.
- Add crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.
- Serve with oyster crackers or crusty bread on the side for dipping.
-
Sides:
- Pair with a simple green salad for freshness.
- Serve alongside corn on the cob for a delightful contrast.
- A light coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.
- A chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy chowder.
- Lemonade is a bright non-alcoholic option.
Your kitchen will smell amazing and your family will love these additions! Enjoy blending flavors and textures to make this dish even more memorable.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a tasty breakdown of New England clam chowder. It’s not just cozy; it can also fit into a well-rounded diet!
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 calories |
Total Fat | 18 grams |
Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
Cholesterol | 60 mg |
Sodium | 800 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
Dietary Fiber | 2 grams |
Sugars | 3 grams |
Protein | 10 grams |
Feel free to adjust the recipe:
- For lower sodium, use low-sodium clam juice.
- Try dairy-free cream to cut back on saturated fats.
- I often sneak in extra veggies like carrots or kale for added fiber.
Conclusion
New England clam chowder is more than just a soup; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day.
Whether I’m whipping it up for a cozy dinner or sharing it with friends, this dish never fails to bring smiles.
With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, it’s easy to see why it’s a beloved classic.
I love how versatile it is too. From lighter alternatives to kid-friendly tweaks, there’s a version for everyone.
So why not gather your ingredients and give it a try? I promise you won’t regret it. Enjoy every spoonful and make it your own!