Quick & Easy Clam Chowder
A creamy, comforting clam chowder with tender potatoes and savory clams, perfect for cozy dinners and seafood lovers seeking a quick, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion in butter in a large pot until translucent.
- Add clam broth from the canned clams, water, and diced potatoes to the pot.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Add the canned clams, milk, salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Heat through until hot and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the chowder just before serving. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor, and for a twist, try adding some crispy bacon. This recipe is a great introduction to classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this clam chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or a side of Fish-Vegetable Chowder for a seafood-themed dinner. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped chives or a sprinkle of paprika to elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover clam chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the milk. Stir frequently and add a splash of water or milk if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick & Easy Clam Chowder contains roughly 1612 calories, with 8g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 144g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 786mg per serving (34% 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 clams?
Yes, you can use fresh clams. Just steam them until they open, reserve the broth, and add them to the chowder along with the reserved liquid. This will add a more robust flavor to the chowder, but make sure to clean the clams thoroughly before cooking.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative such as almond milk or coconut milk. For added creaminess, you can include a bit of blended silken tofu. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as non-dairy milks can vary in sweetness and flavor.
How can I make this clam chowder spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce when you sauté the onions. You can also serve the chowder with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or add a few drops of sriracha to each bowl before serving for a spicy kick.
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).