Quick New England Clam Chowder
A creamy and flavorful New England Clam Chowder featuring tender potatoes, savory clams, and a rich, smooth broth, perfect for comforting lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir-fry onions in 2 tablespoons butter in a large saucepan over moderate heat for 5 to 8 minutes.
- Drain the liquid from the clams into the pan and add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer until the potatoes are nearly tender.
- Add the clams, milk, and light cream to the saucepan.
- Cover and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, just to heat through.
- Add the remaining butter and stir until melted.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the onions while sautéing. If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash a portion of the potatoes before adding the clams and cream. You can substitute half-and-half for the light cream if needed. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the flavor, offering a touch of freshness to this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika for color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. For a complete meal, consider a side salad, such as an Island Salad, to balance the richness of the chowder. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, showcasing classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chowder on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the dairy to separate. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick New England Clam Chowder contains roughly 1288 calories, with 23g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (330% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (174% of the Daily Value), and iron (148% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 49g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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. Just make sure to clean and steam them until they open before adding them to the chowder. You will also need to adjust the liquid since fresh clams release their own liquid. Substitute about 2 cups of fresh clams for the canned variety.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the milk and light cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. For added creaminess, blend some cooked cauliflower into the milk substitute. Just be mindful of the flavors, as they may slightly alter the taste of the chowder.
How can I make the chowder spicier?
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce when you add the clams. You can also sauté some chopped jalapeños with the onions for an extra layer of heat. Adjust according to your spice preference for the perfect balance.
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).