Creamy Clam Chowder – Perfect Seafood Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Clam Chowder to comfort your soul on a chilly day. This creamy, hearty soup combines tender clams, diced potatoes, onions, and celery in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or as an elegant starter, this recipe is simple yet indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy: Smooth, velvety broth with perfectly cooked clams.
• Hearty & Satisfying: Potatoes and clams make this a filling soup.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh clams for easy prep.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• Diced mushrooms (approximately 6–8 ounces) 
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups diced potatoes (Yukon gold or red potatoes)
• 2 cups chopped fresh or canned clams with juice
• 3 cups clam juice or seafood stock
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Oyster crackers, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the mushrooms : In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped mushrooms over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Sauté vegetables: Add onion, celery, and garlic to the mushrooms fat. Cook for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add potatoes and stock: Stir in diced potatoes, clam juice, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Make the roux: In a small pan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Combine and thicken: Gradually whisk the roux into the simmering soup. Stir in heavy cream and add clams. Simmer gently for another 5–7 minutes until the chowder is thickened and creamy.
6. Serve: Remove bay leaf. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with parsley. Serve with oyster crackers on the side.

Tips & Variations

• Fresh vs. Canned Clams: Fresh clams are ideal for flavor, but canned clams work well in a pinch.
• Add More Veggies: Include diced carrots or corn for extra texture and sweetness.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for subtle heat.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or reduce cream by half.
• Make Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day after flavors meld.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Not recommended with cream as it may separate; you can freeze soup before adding cream and then stir in cream when reheating.
• Reheat: Gently warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
• Avoid Microwave: Reheating slowly on stovetop preserves creaminess and texture.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks.
• Add a side of mixed green salad for a lighter meal.
• Pair with sparkling water with lemon for a classic touch.
• Top with fresh chives or parsley for extra color and flavor.
• Offer oyster crackers or croutons on the side for crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make clam chowder ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup without adding cream and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add cream just before reheating.

Can I use canned clams instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned clams with juice are convenient and still flavorful. Drain partially and adjust seasoning.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and ensure your stock or clam juice is gluten-free.

How do I prevent cream from curdling?

Avoid boiling after adding cream. Simmer gently over low heat and stir continuously.

Ready to Make It?

This Clam Chowder recipe delivers creamy, rich, and comforting flavors in every spoonful. Perfect for cozy nights, family meals, or as an elegant starter, it’s a classic soup you’ll want to make again and again.

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