One Pot Clam Chowder

Clam Chowder

One Pot Clam Chowder

Creamy and hearty clam chowder, perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe guides you to create a classic New England-style clam chowder with ease.

Nutrition

Calories: 320cal
Carbohydrate: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 890mg

Difficulty Level: easy

20 min Prep
40 min Cook
1 hr Total
6 Servings

Ingredients

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 (10 oz) cans of clams in juice
  • 2 cups half-and-half cream
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  2. In the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
  3. Add the diced potatoes, water, bay leaf, thyme, pepper, and salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
  4. Drain the clams, reserving the liquid. Add the reserved clam juice to the pot and bring it back to a gentle simmer.
  5. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute while constantly stirring. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half to make a smooth sauce.
  6. Gradually stir the creamy sauce into the chowder pot. Then, add the clams and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Do not boil, as this can cause the clam chowder to curdle.
  7. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with the crispy bacon and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.