Pin it A creamy, hearty soup packed with tender clams, potatoes, and smoky bacon—a comforting classic from the Northeastern coast.
This chowder has been a favorite in my family for years, bringing warmth and nostalgia to cold evenings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped clams: fresh or canned, drained and juice reserved
- 3 medium russet potatoes: peeled and diced
- 1 medium yellow onion: finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks: diced
- 1 clove garlic: minced
- 4 oz thick-cut bacon: diced
- 2 cups whole milk:
- 1 cup heavy cream:
- 1 cup bottled clam juice: plus reserved juice from clams, up to 2 cups total liquid
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter:
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour:
- 1 bay leaf:
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: optional garnish
- Oyster crackers or crusty bread: for serving
Instructions
- Cook bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon until crisp Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot
- Sauté vegetables:
- Add butter to the pot Sauté onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes
- Make roux:
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux
- Add liquids and simmer:
- Gradually whisk in clam juice (bottled plus reserved from clams) while scraping the bottom of the pot Add potatoes, bay leaf, and thyme Bring to a gentle simmer
- Cook potatoes:
- Cover and cook until potatoes are tender, about 12–15 minutes
- Add clams and dairy:
- Stir in clams, milk, and cream Simmer gently (do not boil) for 5–7 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened
- Season chowder:
- Remove bay leaf Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Serve:
- Ladle chowder into bowls Garnish with reserved bacon, parsley, and serve with oyster crackers or crusty bread
Pin it Sharing this soup has created many cherished family moments during cozy dinners.
Tips for Variations
Try substituting smoked ham or pancetta for bacon for a new flavor profile Add hot sauce or lemon juice for a little kick
Serving Suggestions
Serve with oyster crackers or crusty bread for an authentic New England experience
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container Refrigerate up to 3 days Reheat gently on the stove
Pin it This chowder is a perfect blend of creamy and savory flavors sure to warm any chilly day.