New England Clam Chowder

New England Clam Chowder is a warm and hearty delight that fills your kitchen with an enticing aroma. This classic dish takes about 45 minutes to prepare and is a perfect way to showcase the flavors of fresh clams combined with creamy goodness and smoky bacon. It works so well because it beautifully balances the richness of the cream and the brininess of the clams.

This recipe is ideal for seafood lovers and is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends and family. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy consistency and smoky bacon create a comforting harmony.
• Chopped clams offer a tender bite and a burst of ocean flavor.
• It’s a one-pot meal, simplifying cleanup.
• Ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknight dinners.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delightful chowder.

For the Base

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup water

For the Clams

• 1 can (6.5 oz) chopped clams, with juice

For the Creamy Blend

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Bacon can be substituted with turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Clams: fresh or frozen can be used
• Heavy cream: half-and-half for a lighter version
• Thyme: dried Italian herbs as a substitute
• Parsley: chives or green onions work well too

How to Make It

Create this comforting chowder by following these simple steps.

1. Cook the bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

2. Sauté onion and garlic

Add diced onion and garlic to the pot, and sauté until softened.

3. Stir in potatoes

Stir in the diced potatoes and water; bring to a simmer.

4. Add clams

Add the chopped clams with their juice, and cook until the potatoes are tender.

5. Incorporate cream

Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.

6. Heat through

Heat through, then garnish with crispy bacon and parsley before serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, cream can separate when frozen.
Reheat: microwave or stovetop, about 5 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the bacon is truly crispy for maximum flavor.
• Don’t rush the simmering step; allow potatoes to tenderize fully.
• Use fresh clams if available for an even better taste.
• Adjust the seasoning after adding the cream for balance.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a light salad for a fresh contrast.
• Enjoy as a comforting meal on a chilly evening.