Smitty'S Creamy Clam Chowder

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Creamy clam chowder with tender clams, sweet corn, and hash browns, offering a comforting, hearty flavor perfect for chilly days and seafood lovers alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 2 (13 oz.) cans evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup whole kernel corn (optional)
  • 2 (6 1/2 oz.) cans chopped clams
  • 1 cup frozen Southern-style hash browns
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Saute chopped onion in butter until soft.
  2. Blend in flour and let bubble for a minute.
  3. Stir in evaporated milk, mixing until heated through and slightly thickened.
  4. Add chopped clams, hash browns, whole kernel corn (if using), salt, and pepper.
  5. Cook over low heat for 15 minutes, ensuring not to boil.

Tips & Substitutions

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating diced potatoes or celery along with the onions. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference, and don't hesitate to add a splash of hot sauce for a kick. This chowder pairs beautifully with Molded Neptune Salad for a delightful meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing salad or as a starter before a seafood main dish like Crab Hot Dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Smitty'S Creamy Clam Chowder contains roughly 878 calories, with 15g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1214mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).

878 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 15.4g 31% DV
Total Fat 33.8g 43% DV
Carbs 131.2g 48% DV
Fiber 6.6g 24% DV
Sugar 32.8g 66% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1213.9mg 53% DV
Potassium 522.6mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 6.8mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 96.6mcg 11% DV
Vitamin C 26.4mg 29% DV
Vitamin D 0.9mcg 4% DV
Calcium 271.3mg 21% DV
Iron 7mg 39% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten Shellfish

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 ensure to clean and steam them until they open, then chop and add them to the chowder. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh clams will require less time to heat through than canned clams.

Is it possible to make this chowder ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chowder a day in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove. Keep in mind that the chowder may thicken, so you might need to add a bit of milk or broth.

What can I serve with clam chowder?

Clam chowder is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad or crusty bread. For something more substantial, it complements dishes like Diet Workshop Salmon Loaf nicely, making for a satisfying 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).

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