The Best Homemade Clam Chowder Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade clam chowder is packed with flavor and comfort, making it perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, with ingredients that come together beautifully. Classic creamy texture hits all the right notes, while the chunks of tender clams add a satisfying bite. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to master, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to warm up on chilly days or impress guests with minimal effort!
Recipe
Clam chowder is a classic, creamy soup that brings the taste of the coast to your kitchen. This homemade version is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, drained (juice reserved)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the grease in the pot.
- Add onion and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in clams and reserved clam juice. Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves.
- Garnish with crispy bacon and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
- For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding the clams.
- Fresh clams can be used instead of canned—steam and chop them before adding.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6 servings
Nutrition
This classic homemade clam chowder is packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome meal. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutritions | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 980mg |
| Total Carbs | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 18g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade clam chowder with crusty bread bowls—they’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of that creamy goodness. A fresh garden salad on the side adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the chowder. It’s a combo that never lets me down!
Crusty Bread Bowls
While serving clam chowder in a regular bowl works just fine, there’s something extra special about pairing it with a crusty bread bowl. The bread presentation alone makes it feel like a cozy, restaurant-worthy meal. I love hollowing out a round loaf of sourdough or French bread, brushing the inside with butter, and toasting it slightly before filling it with chowder. The crispy edges soak up the creamy broth, adding texture to every bite. For serving suggestions, I’d recommend smaller bread bowls for kids or mini versions for a fun party twist. It’s hearty, comforting, and always a hit!
Fresh Garden Salad
After enjoying a warm, hearty bowl of clam chowder, pairing it with a fresh garden salad adds an invigorating contrast. I love using seasonal produce like crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers to bring out vibrant flavors. A light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon, and a pinch of salt ties it all together. It’s a simple yet rejuvenating side that balances the richness of the chowder. Sometimes, I sprinkle in some grated cheese or toss in a handful of nuts for extra texture. It’s a dish that feels as good to make as it does to eat.
