classic clam chowder recipe

Few things are as comforting as a bowl of classic clam chowder. Rich and creamy, this soup is a classic for a reason. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy bowl on a chilly night, our classic clam chowder recipe will be sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

To make our classic clam chowder recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 tablespoons of butter
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
3 cups of chicken broth
1 (15-ounce) can of chopped clams, drained
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
1 (8-ounce) bottle of clam juice
1 (15-ounce) can of creamed corn
2 cups of whole milk
1/4 cup of heavy cream

Instructions

To make our classic clam chowder recipe, follow these simple instructions:

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Stir in the chicken broth, clams, thyme, and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in the clam juice, creamed corn, and milk. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

This classic clam chowder recipe is perfect served with a side of crusty bread or a tossed salad. It can also be topped with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, chives, or crumbled bacon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of clams should I use?

For this classic clam chowder recipe, we recommend using canned chopped clams. You can also use fresh clams if you prefer.

Can I freeze this chowder?

Yes, this classic clam chowder can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the chowder to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.

How long does this chowder keep?

This classic clam chowder will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I make this chowder in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this classic clam chowder in the slow cooker. Follow the instructions above, but instead of cooking on the stovetop, transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.

Can I add other vegetables to this chowder?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to this classic clam chowder recipe. Chop up potatoes, bell peppers, celery, or carrots and add them to the pot when you add the clams.