New England Clam Chowder With Potatoes
A creamy, hearty New England clam chowder with potatoes, bacon, and fresh clams, perfect for comforting meals and seafood lovers seeking rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan, fry bacon until crisp.
- Remove bacon; drain on paper towels.
- Cook onion in bacon fat until tender.
- Stir in water, potatoes, celery, salt, and pepper.
- Cover; heat to boiling.
- Reduce heat; cook for 15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in minced clams with liquid.
- Heat through.
- Stir in milk; sprinkle with bacon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or milk after heating through. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before stirring in the clams. Fresh clams can be used instead of canned, but adjust cooking times accordingly. For extra flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve New England clam chowder hot, garnished with the crispy bacon bits on top. Pair it with crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture. A light green salad or steamed vegetables complements the chowder nicely, making for a well-rounded meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder thickens too much, add a little water or milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Clam Chowder With Potatoes contains roughly 558 calories, with 13g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2608mg per serving (113% 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 for a more authentic taste. Just make sure to steam them open before adding to the chowder. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh clams will take less time to cook than the canned variety.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and celery instead of bacon. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the chowder.
How can I make this chowder gluten-free?
This clam chowder can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that the broth and any added ingredients are certified gluten-free. You can also use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the chowder if needed.
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).