Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy clam chowder, a classic seafood soup packed with tender clams, diced potatoes, and flavorful seasonings. Topped with crispy bacon bits, this homemade recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings or winter dinners.
Course Soups
Prep Time 20 minutesminutes
Cook Time 30 minutesminutes
Servings 4
Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN
Ingredients
4slicesof baconchopped
2stalks of celerydiced
1oniondiced
1cloveof garlicminced
3small potatoespeeled and diced
1cupof water
1cupof clam juice
1/4teaspoonof white pepper
1/4teaspoonof thyme
1/3cupof all-purpose flour
2cupsof half-and-half
2cans6.5 ounces each of chopped clams, drained
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Add the diced celery, onion, and minced garlic to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced potatoes, water, clam juice, white pepper, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and half-and-half until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the pot while stirring constantly. Cook for a few more minutes until the soup has thickened.
Add the chopped clams to the pot and cook for a few more minutes until the clams are heated through.
Serve the clam chowder hot, topped with the crispy bacon bits. Enjoy!
Notes
This creamy clam chowder is a delightful dish that serves approximately 4 people and yields around 6 cups of soup. Customize it by adding oyster crackers or crusty bread for a complete meal experience.