Corn Clam Chowder
Creamy and savory corn clam chowder with bacon, celery, onions, and a splash of champagne, perfect for comforting gatherings and seafood lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- If using fresh corn, remove corn from cobs and set aside.
- Saute diced bacon in a large pot until browned.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Add diced celery and onions to the bacon fat and cook until almost tender.
- Pour in champagne and cook until vegetables absorb the liquid.
- Return the bacon to the pot and stir in the corn.
- Add heavy cream and stir to moisten the mixture.
- Add dried thyme and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
- Add canned clams to the soup and continue cooking at a simmer until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh sweet corn when in season. If you're short on time, canned corn works well as a substitute. Ensure to drain the canned clams thoroughly before adding them to the chowder. Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of cream, or use half and half for a lighter option. If you enjoy a bit of spice, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the corn clam chowder hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a comforting fall dinner, consider serving alongside dishes like Brown Sugar Pork Chops or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture. For longer storage, consider freezing the chowder in portioned containers for up to 3 months, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Clam Chowder contains roughly 971 calories, with 32g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (548% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (445% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 154g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, this chowder can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors deepen when it sits. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop. However, if you plan to freeze it, add the clams just before serving to prevent them from becoming tough.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor. Additionally, using olive oil or plant-based butter can help sauté the vegetables. For a heartier vegetarian chowder, consider adding diced mushrooms for extra umami.
How do I thicken the chowder?
To thicken the chowder, you can add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with cold water, or simply let it simmer longer to reduce and concentrate its flavors. Another option is to blend a portion of the chowder and return it to the pot, creating a creamier texture without needing to add extra cream.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).