New England Clam Chowder Soup
Creamy and hearty New England Clam Chowder combines tender potatoes, savory clams, and melted cheese for a comforting soup perfect for chilly days and seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes, onion, and celery in 1 1/2 cups water until tender.
- Drain vegetables, saving 1 cup of the water.
- In a saucepan, melt 1/2 stick of butter.
- Add flour and stir until smooth.
- Add 2 cups of milk; stir until creamy.
- Add 4 slices of cheese and stir until melted.
- Add cooked vegetables and stir.
- Add the canned chopped clams and their juice.
- Pour in the saved 1 cup of water from vegetables, stirring constantly until mixture is blended to a smooth consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using clam juice instead of some of the water. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also add a pinch of thyme or bay leaf for an aromatic touch. For a heartier chowder, include diced carrots or corn for additional sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or croutons for added texture. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with James' Crab Cakes for a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the chowder to separate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Clam Chowder Soup contains roughly 1421 calories, with 26g protein, 192g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), iron (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 489mg per serving (21% 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, fresh clams can be used for a more authentic taste. Steam them until they open, then chop and add to the chowder along with their juice. This will enhance the seafood flavor significantly.
How can I thicken the chowder if it's too thin?
If your chowder is too thin after cooking, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the chowder and let it simmer until thickened. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the chowder and mix it back in for a creamier texture.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk and replacing the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Just ensure the cheese used is also dairy-free.
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).