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creamy clam chowder recipe

Homemade Clam Chowder

This velvety clam chowder combines tender clams with buttery potatoes in a rich, creamy broth. The balance of briny seafood flavor with savory vegetables creates the ultimate comfort food that's surprisingly simple to prepare yet tastes like a restaurant-quality dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4-5 potatoes cut into small cubes, preferably Yukon Gold
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 cans (6½ ounces each) minced clams juice reserved
  • ¼ pound butter
  • 2 cups celery diced
  • 4 cups half-and-half divided
  • 8 tablespoons all-purpose flour can reduce to 5 tablespoons for thinner chowder

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Drain the minced clams, carefully reserving all the juice. Set the clams aside.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, simmer the diced celery in the reserved clam juice for about 15 minutes until beginning to soften.
  3. Add the finely chopped onion and cubed potatoes to the pot with the celery. Continue cooking until the potatoes become tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. Once vegetables are tender, add the reserved minced clams, butter, and 3 cups of the half-and-half to the pot.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining cup of half-and-half with the flour until completely smooth with no lumps.
  6. Gradually stir the flour mixture into the chowder, combining well.
  7. Allow the chowder to simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired thickness and the flavors have melded together.

Notes

For the best flavor, use Yukon Gold potatoes which hold their shape well and add a buttery taste. This chowder actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop, so don't hesitate to make it ahead. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For a smoky variation, consider adding cooked, crumbled bacon. Serve with crusty sourdough bread or oyster crackers for the perfect meal.