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Easy New England Clam Chowder

A close-up of a creamy bowl of clam chowder loaded with potatoes, shrimp, and crispy bacon bits.
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Make a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of classic New England clam chowder using simple ingredients. This recipe delivers the best clam chowder flavor without complicated steps.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups clam juice (high-CPC phrase)
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 (10 ounce) can chopped clams, undrained
  • 1 (6.5 ounce) can minced clams, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in the clam juice until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring until it thickens slightly.
  5. Add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
  6. Stir in the chopped clams, minced clams (with their liquid), milk, and heavy cream. Heat gently over low heat until the chowder is hot. Do not let it boil after adding the dairy.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely, adding richness to your creamy seafood soup.
  8. Ladle the homemade chowder recipe into bowls. Garnish each serving with the reserved crisp bacon pieces.

Notes

  • For a thicker chowder, mash a few of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the cream.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use only minced clams instead of both chopped and minced.
  • Serve this easy clam chowder with oyster crackers or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yummagnet.com/clam-chowder-recipe-easy-new-england/