New England Clam Chowder(Microwave)
Creamy and savory New England clam chowder with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and tender clams, perfect for comforting meals and seafood lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 3-quart microproof casserole, cook bacon on High for 3 minutes.
- Stir in onion and potatoes.
- Cook, covered, on Saute for 8 to 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- In a 2-cup glass measure, melt butter on High for 1 minute.
- Stir in flour, then add to reserved clam juice to make 2 cups liquid.
- Stir the clam juice mixture, clams, milk, salt, and white pepper into the casserole.
- Cook, covered, on High for 4 to 5 minutes or until hot.
- Stir once during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. If you prefer a bit of spice, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor. Substitute the bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter version. Ensure the clams are well-drained to prevent excess liquid in the chowder. This recipe can also be made in larger quantities for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or oyster crackers for added texture. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fresh salad, such as Layered 24-Hour Pea Salad, to balance the richness of the chowder. A glass of white wine also complements the flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. Avoid boiling the chowder as it may cause the milk to curdle. For best results, reheat only the portion you plan to consume.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New England Clam Chowder(Microwave) contains roughly 2008 calories, with 13g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 193g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% 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, but you'll need to steam them first and reserve the cooking liquid. This may take additional time and effort, so ensure to plan accordingly. Fresh clams can enhance the flavor profile of the chowder, making it even more delightful.
Is it possible to make this chowder gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this chowder gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You can also use a gluten-free thickening agent to achieve the desired consistency without compromising flavor.
How can I make this chowder more filling?
To make the chowder more filling, consider adding diced carrots, celery, or even corn for added texture and nutrition. You can also serve it over rice or with a side of hearty bread, which can transform it into a more substantial meal.
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).