What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This clam chowder recipe is comfort food at its finest, blending rich flavors with simple steps anyone can follow.
- Creamy and Hearty: It’s packed with tender clams, potatoes, and a velvety broth that’s perfect for cozy nights.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and one pot, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in no time.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or a splash of bacon for a personal touch that makes it uniquely yours.
Recipe
Homemade Clam Chowder is a classic, creamy soup that brings the flavors of the sea to your table. This recipe is straightforward and uses fresh ingredients to create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 (6.5 oz) cans minced clams, with juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine potatoes, celery, and onions. Add enough water to cover the vegetables and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk and half-and-half, cooking until thickened.
- Add the cream mixture to the cooked vegetables. Stir in clams with their juice, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Do not boil.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, substitute heavy cream for half-and-half.
- Fresh clams can be used instead of canned; steam and chop before adding.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
Clam chowder is a hearty soup packed with protein and essential nutrients. Its nutritional profile varies based on ingredients and portion size.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
What To Serve With It
When serving homemade clam chowder, I love pairing it with fresh bread options like crusty sourdough or warm cornbread for dipping. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette also balances the rich, creamy soup perfectly. These sides make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the chowder.
Fresh Bread Options
To make the most of your clam chowder, I’d pair it with a slice of freshly baked bread—there’s just something about that combination that feels like a cozy hug. I love a crusty sourdough loaf, its chewy texture perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy broth. If you’re feeling fancy, a warm baguette with a crispy exterior adds a bit of elegance. For something heartier, try a slice of rustic whole-grain bread—its nutty flavor complements the chowder beautifully. Don’t forget buttered rolls or even garlic bread for a little extra indulgence. Bread elevates the experience, trust me!
Salad Pairings
Because clam chowder is so rich and creamy, I like to balance it with a light, fresh salad to round out the meal. A simple green salad with mixed baby greens, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes is my go-to—it’s crisp and invigorating. Sometimes, I’ll toss in a handful of croutons or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for crunch. A zesty vinaigrette, like lemon or balsamic, adds the perfect tang. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll make a Caesar salad with shaved Parmesan. Either way, the lightness of the salad cuts through the chowder’s richness, making every bite feel just right.
