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Creamy New England Clam Chowder in a bowl garnished with parsley and fresh clams.

New England Clam Chowder

A rich and creamy classic New England Clam Chowder, loaded with tender clams, potatoes, and bacon, perfect for a cozy meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine American, new England
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Knife
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 measuring cups
  • 1 Measuring spoons
  • 1 Ladle

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bacon chopped
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups clam juice from canned clams
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 medium potatoes peeled and diced
  • 2 cans 6.5 oz each chopped clams, drained, juice reserved
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme chopped
  • Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
  • Add onion, celery, and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
  • Slowly whisk in clam juice, milk, and cream. Stir until smooth.
  • Add diced potatoes and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  • Stir in clams and cooked bacon. Simmer an additional 5 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding clams.
  • Can substitute half-and-half for milk and cream for a lighter version.
  • Serve with oyster crackers or crusty bread for a classic experience.
Keyword Clam soup, comfort food, Creamy clam chowder, New England Clam Chowder, Seafood soup