Shortcut Clam Chowder
A quick and hearty clam chowder with smoky bacon, tender onions, and creamy potato soup, perfect for a comforting meal that highlights rich maritime flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a medium saucepan until crisp.
- Drain bacon, reserving 2 tablespoons of drippings.
- Crumble bacon and set aside.
- Cook onions in the reserved drippings until tender.
- Add cream of potato soup, milk, and undrained minced clams to the saucepan.
- Simmer uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add crumbled bacon and garnish with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of half-and-half and milk instead of just milk. If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water before simmering. Substitute the bacon with diced ham or use smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor. This chowder can also be enhanced with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this clam chowder with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a satisfying meal. A side salad, like Louisiana Style Potato Salad, can complement the dish well. For a complete dinner, pair it with a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which enhances the flavors of the clams.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover clam chowder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. You can add a splash of milk to loosen it up if it thickens too much upon cooling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shortcut Clam Chowder contains roughly 469 calories, with 11g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% 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! Just steam them until they open, then add them to the chowder. Be sure to reserve some of the clam juice to add depth to the soup. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the clams are fully cooked and tender.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream of potato soup with a dairy-free version or use pureed cauliflower as a base. Replace the milk with almond milk or coconut milk, keeping in mind that the flavor may vary slightly. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
Can I add vegetables to this chowder?
Definitely! Chopped celery, carrots, or even corn can be great additions. Sauté them with the onions for added flavor. Just be sure to cut them small enough to cook through in the simmering chowder. This adds a nice texture and nutritional value to the dish.
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).