Creamy New England Clam Chowder
Missing the coast? This creamy recipe for new england clam chowder, inspired by classic chowder soup, is pure comfort. Easy enough for weeknights! Get the recipe.

Alright, let's talk chowder, mate! Ever find yourself craving that creamy, comforting taste of the sea? Then, let's make the best recipe for new england clam ! It's proper lush, innit?
look into into Deliciousness: Creamy New England Clam Chowder
This ain't just any chowder soup . This clam chowder recipe takes you straight to the coast. Imagine slurping down a bowl after a windswept walk on a blustery beach.
It's a culinary hug, inspired by generations of New England cooks.
This chowder soup will feed about 6-8 hungry souls. It's totally achievable, even if you're not Mary Berry! Prep takes about 20 mins, cooking around 40.
Creamy New England Clam Chowder Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, diced (120g)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (150g)
- 2 stalks celery, diced (100g)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30g)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30g)
- 4 cups clam juice (950ml)
- 2 cups diced Yukon Gold potatoes (about 2 medium potatoes) (400g)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 (6.5 ounce) cans minced clams, undrained (370g)
- 2 cups whole milk (480ml)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Oyster crackers, for serving
🥄 Instructions:
- Cook the diced bacon in the pot until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving bacon fat.
- In the reserved bacon fat and butter, sauté onion and celery until softened.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux.
- Gradually whisk in the clam juice, ensuring no lumps form.
- Add the diced potatoes, thyme, pepper, and salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in the canned clams (with their liquid) and the reserved bacon. Heat through.
- Gently stir in the milk and heavy cream. Heat through, but do not boil.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with oyster crackers.
Why You'll Absolutely Love This Chowder
Honestly, it's the perfect occasion for serving . It’s proper hearty, right?
This clam chowder soup is special because it's proper comforting. Plus, you're getting a good dose of protein from the clams. It is great for your health!
It's a classic, really. you can serve it with soup and sandwich or you can have it in a bread bowls ! or maybe just soup and salad is enough.
And if you want to add an unexpected twist, think about making a guinness and irish cheddar macaroni & cheese to go with it.
Now, let’s get down to business and talk ingredients, shall we?
Right, let's get down to brass tacks. we're talking about the real deal, the recipe for new england clam chowder that'll make you feel like you're right on the coast, even if you're stuck in a landlocked flat.
Honestly, the secret's in the ingredients. it's like building a house; you need a solid foundation!
Ingredients & Equipment
So, you wanna make a Clam Chowder Soup , do ya? Let's break down what you'll need.
Main Ingredients
- Bacon: 4 slices , diced. That's about 120g . Go for good quality streaky bacon. It renders better.
- Onion: 1 medium , diced ( 150g ). Yellow onion is best. It's got a mellow sweetness.
- Celery: 2 stalks , diced ( 100g ). Don't skip it! It adds a lovely depth.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons ( 30g ). Unsalted, because the bacon's already salty.
- Flour: ¼ cup ( 30g ). All-purpose, to thicken things up.
- Clam Juice: 4 cups ( 950ml ). This is crucial! Good quality clam juice, yeah?
- Potatoes: 2 cups diced ( 400g ). Use Yukon Gold. They're creamy.
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon , dried.
- Pepper: ½ teaspoon , black.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon , or to taste. Be careful!
- Canned Clams: Two 6.5-ounce cans, undrained ( 370g ). Minced are fine.
- Milk: 2 cups ( 480ml ). Whole milk for richness.
- Cream: 1 cup ( 240ml ). Heavy cream, baby!
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons , chopped. For garnish.
- Oyster Crackers: For serving, of course.
Now, for the quality thing: clams . if you can get your hands on fresh clams, go for it! steam 'em, shuck 'em, and use the broth.
But canned is totally fine for weeknight chowder recipes .
Seasoning Notes
Okay, listen up. thyme is your friend here. it's classic in chowder soup . a little goes a long way. black pepper, obviously.
Don't be shy with it. and salt? taste as you go. the bacon and clams are already salty, so go easy at first.
You can always add more. if you're feeling fancy, a bay leaf while simmering is nice, just remember to take it out before serving.
It's like a little extra hug for your soup.
Equipment Needed
Honestly, you don't need anything too fancy.
- A big pot. Like, a proper Dutch oven . It distributes the heat evenly.
- A wooden spoon.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Obvs.
- A knife and cutting board.
You could use a regular pot. it'll work, but just keep a close eye on things to avoid scorching. honestly, making this recipe for new england clam chowder is easier than navigating the london underground during rush hour.
You got this! thinking to add some bread bowls for serving it with soup and sandwich , or soup and salad , would be nice! or maybe a guinness and irish cheddar macaroni & cheese to make a complete meal.
..
Disney Clam Chowder Recipe makes it sound fancy but is the same base!

Okay, here we go! Let's make some proper chowder.
Creamy New England Clam Chowder: A Taste of the Coast
Honestly, who doesn't love a good chowder? this recipe for new england clam will transport you straight to the coast.
Think salty air and creamy, comforting goodness. this isn't just any clam chowder soup ; it's the clam chowder , the ultimate chowder soup .
It's proper comfort food. you know, perfect for a chilly evening with some crusty bread. speaking of bread, how about serving it up in bread bowls ? it is going to be delicious! this classic chowder recipe guarantees smiles.
Prep Like a Pro
Essential mise en place is key! get everything chopped and measured beforehand. dicing the onion, celery, and potatoes before you start.
It is a time saver, trust me. plus, let's be honest, it's less stressful when you're not scrambling to chop veggies while the bacon's burning.
Time-saving organization tips: dice your veggies all at once. you can even do it the night before and store them in the fridge.
That way, when it's chowder time, you are already winning! it makes everything so much easier, don't you think?
Safety Reminders: When you are working with hot bacon grease, please, be careful. Seriously. Nobody wants to visit A&E!
Chowder Time: Step-by-Step
- Crisp the Bacon: Cook diced bacon in a large pot until crisp. That’s roughly 8- 10 minutes over medium heat. Remove bacon and set aside. Remember the bacon fat!
- Sauté the Veggies: In the bacon fat (and 2 tablespoons of butter), sauté diced onion and celery until softened. This takes around 5- 7 minutes .
- Make a Roux: Whisk in ¼ cup all-purpose flour. Cook for 1- 2 minutes , stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. No lumps allowed!
- Add the Liquid: Gradually whisk in 4 cups clam juice. Make sure no lumps form. Keep stirring, and be patient.
- Potatoes & Seasoning In: Add 2 cups diced Yukon Gold potatoes, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer Away: Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender. This usually takes 15- 20 minutes . Check with a fork!
- Clams In!: Stir in two cans of minced clams (with their juice!) and the reserved bacon. Heat through.
- Creamy Finish: Gently stir in 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Heat through, but do not boil! That is a crucial point.
Pro Tips for Chowder Glory
- Don't Boil, Seriously: I cannot stress this enough. Do not boil after adding dairy. It will curdle, and nobody wants that.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning (salt and pepper) to your liking. Remember, the bacon and clams are already salty. Taste test to make sure your chowder is on point.
- Make Ahead Magic: You can absolutely make this chowder a day ahead. Honestly, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the fridge and gently reheat it before serving.
So there you have it! a proper recipe for new england clam that will impress your friends and family. serve it with soup and salad or with some soup and sandwich for a complete meal.
Forget that disney clam chowder recipe , this is the real deal! and if you are feeling extra fancy, why not try a guinness and irish cheddar macaroni & cheese on the side?
Honestly? This recipe's not just about the food; it's about the memories you create while making it. Happy cooking!
Okay, here we go. Let's talk recipe for new england clam chowder, shall we? It's more than just soup. It's a hug in a bowl!
Recipe Notes
Honestly, this clam chowder soup is so easy to customize. Don’t be afraid to get creative! It's all about making it your perfect bowl of Chowder Soup .
Serving Suggestions That'll Wow
Think about presentation, yeah? ladle that creamy goodness into some crusty bread bowls . oh my gosh, the drama! a sprinkle of fresh parsley makes everything look fancier.
Seriously! i think soup and sandwich and soup and salad sounds great to me.
And for the adults? A cold beer like Guinness and Irish Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese pairing is lovely on a cold day!
Storage Secrets
Got leftovers? Lucky you!
- Refrigeration: Pop it in an airtight container and it's good for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freezing is an option, but the texture might change. I recommend using it within a month.
- Reheating: Low and slow is key! Gently reheat on the stovetop.
Variations - Because You're Unique!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk. Seriously! Adds a slight sweetness that works surprisingly well.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Boom!
Nutrition Nuggets
Alright, so this clam chowder isn't exactly a salad. however , it is packed with protein from the clams. plus, potatoes bring potassium to the party.
Think of it as comfort food that also sneaks in some nutrients. don't think about disney clam chowder recipe because it can be scary.
This chowder recipes is a great starting point, so what are you waiting for? grab those ingredients and get cooking! it's way easier than you think! you can add some bread bowls after.
Seriously, this clam chowder soup is going to be a new family fave.

Frequently Asked Questions
Okay, I'm a total beginner. Is this recipe for New England Clam Chowder really doable for me, or am I biting off more than I can chew?
Absolutely doable! While it's rated as medium difficulty, the steps are straightforward. Just take your time, especially when creating the roux (that's just flour and fat cooked together) and avoid boiling the chowder after adding the milk and cream. Think of it like learning to drive - a little practice, and you'll be cruising along like you're on Route 1!
I've seen a few recipes for New England Clam Chowder, and some don't include bacon. Is it essential?
Bacon adds a lovely smoky depth to the chowder, but it's not strictly essential. If you're vegetarian or don't like bacon, you can omit it. You might want to add a little extra butter or a drizzle of olive oil when you sauté the onions and celery to compensate for the flavor, or even consider smoked paprika to get some of that smoky flavor.
What's the best way to store leftover New England Clam Chowder? And how long will it last?
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the potatoes may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of milk or clam juice when reheating. Sadly, freezing isn't recommended, as the dairy can separate and become grainy.
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned for this recipe for New England Clam Chowder?
Definitely! Fresh clams will elevate the flavor even more. You'll need about 2 pounds of fresh clams. Steam them open, remove the clam meat, and chop it coarsely. Be sure to reserve the clam broth from steaming – use that in place of some of the canned clam juice for a richer, more authentic taste. Just remember to strain the broth to remove any sand or grit!
I'm trying to eat a little healthier. Are there any easy swaps I can make in this recipe to reduce the fat or calories?
Absolutely! You can use less bacon or turkey bacon instead, and trim any excess fat. Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream will significantly reduce the fat content, although the texture won't be quite as rich. You can also bulk up the chowder with more vegetables like celery or carrots for extra nutrients without adding too many calories.
My chowder looks a little thin. How can I thicken it up?
If your chowder is too thin, you can make a slurry of a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering chowder. Alternatively, you can mash a portion of the cooked potatoes with a fork and stir them back into the chowder to add thickness and body. Simmering uncovered for a bit longer will also help reduce the liquid.
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