New England Clam Chowder (Rich, Creamy & Classic Coastal Comfort)

This New England Clam Chowder is rich, creamy, and deeply comforting, with tender clams, smoky bacon, and soft potatoes simmered in a velvety broth. Every spoonful is hearty and satisfying, making it one of the most beloved classic American soups.

It’s the perfect cozy recipe for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something warm and filling. If you enjoy hearty comfort soups like Cheeseburger Soup, Creamy Wild Rice & Mushroom Soup, or Chicken and Dumplings, this traditional clam chowder is another delicious addition to your soup rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Classic New England Clam Chowder

• Rich, creamy chowder with classic New England flavor

• Hearty enough to serve as a full meal

• Made with simple pantry ingredients

• Perfect cozy soup for cold weather

• Even better, the next day

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 4–6 servings

Nutrition Information

(per serving approx.)

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Fat: 26 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 3 g

• Sodium: 720 mg

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, chopped

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (22 g)

• 2 cups clam juice (480 ml)

• 1 cup chicken broth (240 ml)

• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (about 300 g)

• 2 cans chopped clams with juice (6.5 oz / 185 g each)

• 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)

• 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)

• 1 tbsp butter (14 g)

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• Oyster crackers for serving

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.

2. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir continuously for about 1 minute to form a light roux.

4. Slowly whisk in the clam juice and chicken broth, stirring well to prevent lumps.

5. Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10–12 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

6. Stir in the clams with their juice, heavy cream, milk, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.

7. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes until the chowder thickens and flavors combine.

8. Return the crispy bacon to the pot and stir gently.

9. Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley and oyster crackers.

Tips for the Best Creamy Clam Chowder

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the creamiest texture.

• For extra clam flavor, add additional clam juice instead of broth.

• A splash of dry white wine can add depth to the chowder.

• If you prefer a thicker chowder, mash a few potatoes directly into the soup.

• Add celery for a more traditional chowder base.

How to Store Homemade Clam Chowder

New England Clam Chowder stores well, and the flavors often deepen overnight.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, which can cause the cream to separate.

Freezing is not recommended because dairy-based soups may become grainy when thawed.

FAQ

What makes New England clam chowder different?

New England clam chowder is known for its rich, creamy broth made with milk or cream, tender clams, potatoes, and often smoky bacon. Unlike Manhattan clam chowder, which uses a tomato-based broth, traditional New England clam chowder is thick, creamy, and deeply comforting.

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?

Yes. Fresh clams can be steamed and chopped for an even more authentic flavor.

How do I thicken clam chowder?

The chowder thickens naturally from the flour roux and potatoes, but you can mash some potatoes or simmer longer for a thicker texture.

Final Thoughts

New England Clam Chowder is one of the most iconic American soups, loved for its rich, creamy texture and comforting flavor. With tender clams, smoky bacon, and hearty potatoes, it’s the kind of cozy recipe that turns a simple bowl of soup into a satisfying meal.

Serve it with crusty bread or oyster crackers for a classic coastal comfort dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Looking for more cozy soup ideas? Explore the full Soups & Stews collection on Cozy Home Recipes for creamy comfort soups, hearty beef stews, classic chicken soups, and vegetable-packed favorites perfect for every season.