Tasty Clam Chowder
A creamy, comforting chowder featuring tender potatoes, fresh celery and briny clams, finished with a splash of milk—ideal for a cozy family dinner or a brunch crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and chop 2 medium potatoes and 1 medium onion into small pieces.
- In a large pot, add 1/4 cup chopped celery tops, 1 tablespoon butter, and 1 teaspoon chopped parsley, cooking until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup of water and bring to a gentle simmer, then add the chopped potatoes and onion, cooking until tender.
- Once the vegetables are soft, lightly mash them with a fork or potato masher to create a chunky consistency.
- Stir in 1 can minced clams and 3 cups of milk, heating gently but do not let it boil.
- Serve hot, accompanied by breadsticks or rolls for a hearty meal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier chowder, consider adding a small amount of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a thicker texture, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it in during the cooking process. Fresh herbs like thyme can also enhance the flavor. If you don't have clams, try using shrimp for a delightful twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam chowder hot, garnished with additional parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with breadsticks or rolls for a perfect meal. For a more substantial dish, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or even a side of Shrimp Over Crackers to create a seafood-themed dinner.
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 frequently to prevent separation. Avoid boiling as it can affect the texture. You can also add a splash of milk if it becomes too thick when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tasty Clam Chowder contains roughly 1857 calories, with 9g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 163g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 3g 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! Make sure to steam them until they open, then chop and add them to the chowder. Just adjust the cooking time, as fresh clams may require more time to cook than canned.
What can I substitute for potatoes?
If you're looking for a low-carb option, consider using cauliflower instead of potatoes. It will give a similar texture when cooked and blended, while also adding a unique flavor to the chowder.
Is this chowder suitable for freezing?
While clam chowder can be frozen, it's best to do so without the milk. Instead, freeze the base (potatoes, clams, and seasonings) and add the milk when reheating. This helps maintain the creamy texture.
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).