Recipe Details

• Author: deesviral
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Soup / Seafood
• Cuisine: American / New England
• Keywords: clam chowder, creamy clam soup, seafood chowder, deesviral

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups clam juice (or broth)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, drained (reserve juice)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.
2. Add onion to the pot and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced potatoes, clam juice (including reserved juice), and dried thyme. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in milk, cream, and chopped clams. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes (do not boil).
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot.
• Use fresh clams if available for extra flavor.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for subtle depth.