Easy & Best New England Clam Chowder Recipe

New England Clam Chowder is a rich, creamy soup filled with tender clams, potatoes, and vegetables, all simmered together in a smooth, comforting broth. Known for its luscious texture and savory flavor, this classic chowder is perfect for chilly nights or as a cozy starter to a hearty meal. The blend of fresh clams, creamy broth, and aromatic seasonings makes it a favorite for seafood lovers and those who enjoy a satisfying, warm dish.

This easy recipe takes all the traditional flavors of New England Clam Chowder and makes it simple to prepare at home. The addition of bacon adds a smoky depth to the flavor, while the cream-based broth provides a velvety, rich finish. Whether you’re new to making chowder or a seasoned pro, this recipe ensures a delicious, comforting bowl of soup every time.

A creamy, comforting soup with tender clams, chunks of potatoes, and a smooth, rich broth that’s full of flavor. The subtle smokiness from the bacon enhances the overall taste, while the fresh herbs bring brightness and balance to the dish. This chowder is hearty yet smooth and makes for a perfect meal to enjoy with a slice of crusty bread.

Tools to Use

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

4 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups clam juice
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional for color)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
2 cups fresh or canned clams, drained and chopped
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Bacon
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving a little of the bacon fat in the pot.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion and celery to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Simmer the Soup
- Stir in the diced potatoes, clam juice, and optional diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the Clams and Dairy
- Stir in the clams, heavy cream, and whole milk. Let the chowder simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the clams to heat through and the flavors to meld together.
Finish the Soup
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Stir in the cooked bacon and adjust the seasoning to taste. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve
- Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.

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Easy & Best New England Clam Chowder Recipe

Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

4 slices bacon chopped
1 medium onion diced
2 celery stalks diced
2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
3 cloves garlic minced
2 cups clam juice
1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (optional for color)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
2 cups fresh or canned clams drained and chopped
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving a little of the bacon fat in the pot.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and celery to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Simmer the Soup
Stir in the diced potatoes, clam juice, and optional diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add the Clams and Dairy
Stir in the clams, heavy cream, and whole milk. Let the chowder simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the clams to heat through and the flavors to meld together.
Finish the Soup
Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Stir in the cooked bacon and adjust the seasoning to taste. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve
Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.

Tips for Cooking

Use Fresh Clams: If using fresh clams, steam them open before adding them to the chowder. Discard any clams that don’t open. Canned clams are convenient and work well, but fresh clams offer a deeper flavor.
Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can mash a portion of the potatoes in the soup with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to thicken the broth.
Make Ahead: New England Clam Chowder can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Add More Vegetables: If you like, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots or corn, to add more texture and flavor to the soup.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

New England Clam Chowder is the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of a cream-based broth with the briny sweetness of clams. The tender potatoes, fresh vegetables, and smoky bacon create a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make version ensures you get all the classic flavors of the chowder without the hassle, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

This easy New England Clam Chowder recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a warm, comforting, and flavorful bowl of soup. The creamy broth, tender clams, and savory vegetables make it a satisfying dish that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or as a special treat, this chowder is sure to be a hit with everyone. Try it today and bring a taste of New England to your kitchen!