Smooth And Easy Clam Chowder
A creamy, comforting clam chowder with tender potatoes, savory clams, and a smooth cheese base, perfect for cozy gatherings or a hearty lunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and minced clams in margarine.
- Set aside the clam and onion mixture.
- Boil potatoes until tender.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Mash potatoes slightly.
- Soften cream cheese in the microwave.
- Add milk and flour to the cream cheese and whip until smooth.
- Turn the heat to low and stir the cheese mixture into the potatoes.
- Stir in the sautéed onion and clam mixture.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the onion and clams. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked potatoes or even frozen diced potatoes. For a lighter version, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Adjust the thickness by varying the milk and flour based on your preference for a chunkier or creamier chowder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crackers or a warm piece of crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a Caesar Salad(This Recipe Is Foolproof. It Is The Best I Have Ever Tasted.) to add freshness and crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency after refrigeration.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smooth And Easy Clam Chowder contains roughly 1043 calories, with 17g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 605mg per serving (26% 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, fresh clams can be used in this recipe! Just ensure they are cleaned and cooked properly before adding them to the chowder. You’ll need about a pound of fresh clams, which will add a delightful freshness to the dish.
Is it possible to make this chowder dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. This way, you can enjoy a delicious clam chowder that fits your dietary needs.
What can I do if the chowder is too thick?
If your chowder turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in additional milk or broth until you achieve your preferred consistency. It's best to add a little at a time to avoid making it too runny.
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).