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Comforting Clam Chowder Recipe in 5 Easy Steps

clam chowder - featured image

A rich and creamy clam chowder served in freshly toasted bread bowls, perfect for cozy nights or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or seafood stock)
  • 2 cans (6.5 oz each) chopped clams with juice
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (for garnish)
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 4 round crusty bread loaves (sourdough or artisan bread works great)
  • Optional: Butter for brushing

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bread loaves and scoop out the inside to create hollow bowls. Reserve the bread pieces for dipping if desired. Brush the insides lightly with butter and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until slightly crisp.
  2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  4. Stir in the chopped clams along with their juice, heavy cream, milk, thyme, and bay leaf. Let the chowder simmer gently for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Ladle the hot clam chowder into the toasted bread bowls. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

[‘Use fresh vegetables and high-quality clams for better flavor.’, ‘Let the potatoes simmer until fork-tender but not mushy.’, ‘Avoid boiling the chowder after adding cream to prevent curdling.’, ‘Mash some cooked potatoes for a thicker consistency.’, ‘Scooped-out bread can be used for croutons or dipping.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: clam chowder, bread bowls, comfort food, creamy soup, seafood recipe, easy dinner, cozy meal