Microwave Clam Chowder
A hearty and creamy microwave clam chowder featuring tender potatoes, flavorful clams, crispy bacon, and rich milk, perfect for a comforting quick meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart casserole, cook bacon and onions for 5 minutes on High.
- Add diced potatoes, clam juice from the cans, and water to the casserole.
- Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, stirring every 4 minutes.
- Add clams, milk, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon instead of regular. If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash some of the potatoes before adding the clams. You can also substitute half-and-half for the milk for a creamier texture. If fresh clams are available, they can be used instead of canned, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley for added color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, such as Linda Golden'S Salad, for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a main dish like Cider Baked Ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated through. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of water or milk while reheating to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Clam Chowder contains roughly 1551 calories, with 27g protein, 222g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (81% of the Daily Value), calcium (65% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1485mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of water. You might also want to add some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
How can I make this chowder spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the onions and bacon. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who prefer to spice it up individually.
Is there a way to lighten this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute low-fat milk for regular milk and use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon to reduce the fat content. Additionally, using fewer potatoes or replacing some with cauliflower can also lighten the dish while maintaining flavor.
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).