Microwave New England Clam Chowder
A creamy, flavorful New England clam chowder made quickly in the microwave. Savory bacon, tender potatoes, and tender clams combine with a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for a comforting meal that comes together in minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or when craving a classic seafood soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bacon in a 3-quart casserole.
- Cover and microwave at High for 3 minutes.
- Drain all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the casserole.
- Add potatoes and chopped onion to the casserole.
- Pour the reserved clam liquid into the casserole.
- Cover and microwave at High for 7 to 9 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender, stirring once.
- Combine flour and 1/4 cup of milk to make a slurry.
- Add the flour mixture, remaining milk, salt, and pepper to the casserole.
- Do not cover; microwave at High for 8 to 10 minutes or until thickened, stirring several times.
- Stir in the drained clams and light cream.
- Microwave at High for 2 to 4 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon and cooking it until crispy before adding the other ingredients. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute part of the milk with heavy cream. You can also add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition. For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the chowder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley for a touch of color. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, such as Cauliflower-Broccoli Salad, to balance the richness of the chowder. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to regain creaminess. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the chowder from thickening too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave New England Clam Chowder contains roughly 809 calories, with 19g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value), iron (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% 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 use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh clams if you prefer. Make sure to steam them open and reserve the liquid before adding them to the recipe. You may need to adjust cooking times to ensure the clams are fully cooked and tender.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, replace the milk with a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. Use a dairy-free cream alternative to achieve a similar creamy texture. Ensure that the flour used is gluten-free if needed.
What can I do if the chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out too thick, simply stir in a little more milk or clam juice until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently in the microwave, stirring frequently, to incorporate the liquid without cooking it further.
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).