New England Clam Chowder is a rich and creamy soup made with tender clams, potatoes, and a savory broth. It’s a comforting classic from the Northeast, perfect for chilly days.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
Scale
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
1 cup bottled clam juice
1 cup water
2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, drained and juice reserved
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pot.
Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the onions, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Add diced potatoes, clam juice, and water (including reserved juice from canned clams). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Stir in clams, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 more minutes, ensuring clams are heated through but not overcooked.
Top with crispy bacon and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Do not overcook the clams—they can become tough.
For thicker chowder, mash a few potatoes or stir in more flour before adding cream.