The Best Homemade New England Clam Chowder Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Cooking this homemade New England clam chowder feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day—comforting and satisfying. You’ll love how simple it is to make, with easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully. The creamy, rich broth pairs perfectly with tender clams and hearty potatoes, creating a bowl full of flavor. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress family and friends at any gathering. Bonus: it tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal!
Recipe
New England clam chowder is a creamy, hearty soup that has become a staple in coastal cuisine. This classic recipe brings together tender clams, potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth for a dish that’s comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
4 cups chopped clams (fresh or canned), with juice reserved
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 onion, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
3 cups diced potatoes
3 cups clam juice or seafood stock
2 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Add the onion and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the butter and flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually pour in the clam juice or seafood stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced potatoes and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped clams, heavy cream, and cooked bacon. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, being careful not to boil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
For a thicker chowder, increase the flour to 3 tablespoons. If using fresh clams, steam them first and reserve the broth.
Equipment:
Large pot, wooden spoon, knife, cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American (New England)
Serving:
6 servings
Nutrition
Homemade New England Clam Chowder is a hearty and comforting dish, rich in flavor and nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
What To Serve With It
A bowl of creamy clam chowder begs for something crunchy and fresh on the side, so I love pairing it with crusty bread—think warm sourdough or a baguette—to soak up every last drop. A crisp salad, like a simple Caesar or a tangy kale and apple mix, adds brightness that balances the chowder’s richness perfectly. Trust me, these combos turn a cozy meal into something extra special without any fuss.
Crusty Bread Pairings
Though clam chowder’s rich, creamy texture is satisfying on its own, it’s even better with the right crusty bread to soak up every last drop. I love pairing it with a warm sourdough loaf—its tangy flavor complements the soup’s savory depth. A classic French baguette works wonders too, with its crisp exterior and soft inside. For something heartier, try a rustic multigrain bread; its nutty notes add a delightful contrast. Sometimes, I’ll toast slices of ciabatta for extra crunch. Whichever you choose, they all elevate the experience, turning a simple bowl into a cozy, comforting meal.
Fresh Salad Options
While crusty bread makes clam chowder feel like a hearty meal, sometimes I like balancing that richness with something light and fresh. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette works wonders. I also love tossing in crunchy cucumbers or thinly sliced radishes for extra texture. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add shaved fennel or a handful of toasted nuts. Caesar salad is another favorite—its creamy dressing complements the chowder nicely. Whatever salad I choose, it’s all about creating a contrast that makes the meal feel complete without being too heavy.
