Name: Creamy Authentic Clam Chowder Recipe You'll Love to Make
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cans chopped clams (6.5 oz cans with juice); 2 bottles clam juice or vegetable broth (8 ounces each); 4 slices bacon (diced); 1 cup yellow onion (diced); 1 cup celery (diced); 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 lb potatoes (red or Yukon Gold, scrubbed and unpeeled); 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (minced fine); 1 tablespoon fresh dill (minced fine (optional))

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There’s something perfectly comforting about a steaming bowl of chowder, where every velvety sip feels like a warm hug. I can still recall the first time I tasted clam chowder at a quaint seaside café, surrounded by the salty breeze and the sound of waves crashing. It was an unforgettable experience that inspired me to recreate this rich and creamy dish at home.

Today, I’m excited to share my Authentic Clam Chowder Recipe, featuring the perfect balance of savory flavors, from crispy bacon to tender potatoes. The best part? This delightful dish can be on your table in under an hour, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight meals or a starter for an elegant dinner party.

Whether you’re switching gears from the mundane fast-food routine or simply craving something heartwarming, this chowder is sure to impress. Dive into the cozy flavors, and let’s bring a taste of the coast right into your kitchen!

Why is this Authentic Clam Chowder Recipe a must-try?

Creaminess: This chowder boasts a velvety texture, thanks to rich heavy cream that envelopes each ingredient.
Savory Goodness: Crispy bacon adds an incredible depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Quick to Make: With simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour!
Versatile: Perfect as a comforting dinner or an impressive starter for gatherings, this chowder fits any occasion.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its homestyle appeal, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters and rival any restaurant version.

Serve this delightful dish alongside some crusty bread for a complete feast, and feel free to explore other comforting recipes like my hearty Bread Bowl Clam Chowder for a unique twist! Enjoy every spoonful!

Authentic Clam Chowder Ingredients

• Let’s gather the essentials for a delightful bowl of Authentic Clam Chowder!

For the Chowder Base

Chopped clams – use 2 cans (6.5 oz) with juice for maximum flavor.
Clam juice or vegetable broth – either 2 bottles (8 ounces) or 2 cups adds depth to your chowder.
Bacon – 4 slices, diced; the crispy bacon brings a delicious savory goodness to the mix.
Yellow onion – 1 cup, diced; it adds a sweet and aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
Celery – 1 cup, diced; this crunchy vegetable infuses freshness into the rich chowder.
All-purpose flour – 3 tablespoons; this thickens the chowder, giving it that silky texture we crave.

For the Heart of the Chowder

Potatoes – 1 lb, red or Yukon Gold, scrubbed and unpeeled; these provide a hearty texture that complements the clams.
Heavy cream – 2 cups; the secret to a creamy chowder that comforts the soul.

For Seasoning

Kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon; to enhance all those incredible flavors without overpowering them.
Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon; a little kick to elevate the taste experience.

Optional Fresh Touches

Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, minced fine; for a pop of color and freshness if desired.
Fresh dill – 1 tablespoon, minced fine (optional); this herb brings a lovely earthy flavor to the chowder.

Gather these ingredients, and get ready to create a truly Authentic Clam Chowder Recipe that will warm your heart and amaze your friends and family!

How to Make Authentic Clam Chowder

Cook the bacon: In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside, keeping the delicious drippings in the pot.
Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and celery to the same pot. Sauté until they are softened and aromatic, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Add flour: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This step helps cook out the raw flavor, creating a flavorful base for your chowder.
Incorporate liquids: Gradually pour in the clam juice (or vegetable broth), stirring continuously. Bring to a simmer while avoiding lumps, about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is well combined.
Cook potatoes: Add the scrubbed and unpeeled potatoes, cooking until they are tender, which should take around 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
Mix in clams and cream: Stir in the chopped clams along with their juice and the heavy cream. Heat gently until everything is warmed through, about 3-4 minutes.
Season and serve: Season your chowder with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Just before serving, stir in the optional parsley and dill for a fresh twist.

Optional: Top with additional crispy bacon for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Authentic Clam Chowder Recipe components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and bacon up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can peel and dice the potatoes, soaking them in cold water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, simply follow the cooking steps, starting with sautéing the prepped ingredients. This way, you’ll have a comforting and fragrant chowder ready with minimal effort, just as delicious and satisfying as if made from scratch that day!

What to Serve with Authentic Clam Chowder?

Elevate your chowder experience with perfect pairings that tantalize the taste buds and create a delightful meal.

Crusty Bread: The ultimate companion, allowing you to dip and savor every creamy morsel of chowder.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: The rich, savory notes of garlic and buttery shrimp enhance the oceanic flavor of the chowder.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing, crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the chowder’s richness.
Cheddar Biscuit: These flaky treats bring extra warmth and cheesy flavor, complementing the chowder’s creamy base beautifully.
Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus with a dash of lemon adds a fresh, vibrant touch that cuts through the chowder’s heaviness.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this crisp white wine enhances the dish’s flavors, making each sip a sophisticated experience.
Lemon Sorbet: A light, refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate, rounding off the meal perfectly without being heavy.

Each pairing beautifully complements the Authentic Clam Chowder, ensuring a cozy meal that warms the soul!

How to Store and Freeze Authentic Clam Chowder

Fridge: Store leftover chowder in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently.

Freezer: Seal clam chowder in a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating frozen chowder, do so slowly over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much. Stir well to recombine flavors.

Avoid Separation: If storing, know that heavy cream can separate during freezing. Consider adding cream just before serving for a smoother texture.

Expert Tips for Authentic Clam Chowder

Bacon Crispiness: Cook bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. This adds the ideal texture and flavor, so don’t rush this step!
Vegetable Softening: Sauté onions and celery until they’re truly softened. This foundational step enhances your chowder’s savory goodness.
Constant Stirring: When adding flour, stir constantly to avoid lumps. A smooth base is key to an authentic clam chowder recipe that everyone will love.
Potato Texture: Cut potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. Uneven sizes lead to some being mushy while others are crunchy, so let’s aim for uniformity!
Garnish Generously: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill just before serving. These optional herbs elevate both the flavor and the presentation of your chowder.
Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently, as heavy cream can separate if cooked too aggressively.

Authentic Clam Chowder Variations

Feel free to personalize your chowder experience with these creative twists that elevate every bite!

Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream for a luscious, dairy-free alternative.
Bacon Lover’s Boost: Increase bacon to 6 slices for a heartier flavor; crispy bacon bits enhance the chowder’s savory profile beautifully.
Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and use smoked paprika for a deep flavor, then add mushrooms for an earthy twist in every spoonful.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for an exciting heat that warms your soul and spices up the flavor.
Clam Varieties: Use a mixture of fresh clams and canned clams for a fresh-from-the-sea texture combined with rich, canned flavor.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon instead of dill for a unique aromatic experience that elevates comfort food.
Corny Goodness: Toss in a cup of sweet corn for a delightful pop of sweetness and extra texture that pairs beautifully with the savory broth.
Smoky Flavor: Choose smoked clams or add a dash of liquid smoke to create a rich, smoky infused chowder that leaves a lasting impression.

These variations guarantee that every bowl of clam chowder can be a new adventure, so let your taste buds lead the way!

Authentic Clam Chowder Recipe FAQs

What type of clams should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using chopped clams from a can, which typically come in 6.5 oz portions with juice. This juice is packed with briny goodness that enhances the overall chowder taste. If you can find fresh clams, they can be a delightful alternative, but make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them in.

How should I store leftover clam chowder?
Very! After enjoying your chowder, let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring frequently to prevent any uneven heating.

Can I freeze clam chowder?
Absolutely! To freeze your chowder, let it cool completely and then pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and when reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to reach the desired consistency. Heat it gently over medium heat, stirring well.

What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
No worries! If your chowder turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a bit of clam juice or vegetable broth to loosen it up. Stir gently over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. You can also incorporate a splash of cream for extra richness!

Are there any dietary considerations for clam chowder?
Certainly! This Authentic Clam Chowder Recipe contains shellfish, which may not be suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies. For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a plant-based broth. Always check with guests regarding food allergies or dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy!

What if my potatoes are undercooked after the 20 minutes?
Very! If your potatoes aren’t tender after the suggested time, cover and allow them to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness frequently. Remember, the goal is for them to be easily pierced with a fork. If they need longer, just keep them simmering on a low heat until tender!