Quick Clam Chowder

Warm up your weeknight dinner routine with this hearty and flavorful Quick Clam Chowder! This recipe combines the classic comfort of creamy chowder with the convenience of a 40-minute meal, making it perfect for busy evenings. Loaded with tender russet potatoes, savory canned clams, and crispy bacon, this chowder packs rich flavors in every bite. A touch of dried thyme and a dash of garlic enhance its depth, while half-and-half creates a velvety finish. Serve it hot with oyster crackers or crusty bread for an irresistible meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re craving coastal-inspired flavors or a simple, crowd-pleasing dinner, this quick clam chowder will hit the spot.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups canned clams, including juice
• 1.5 cups half-and-half
• 0.5 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 whole bay leaf
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 0 to taste oyster crackers or bread (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2

Add the unsalted butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in the diced onion and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 5

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 6

Add the diced potatoes, clam juice from the canned clams, dried thyme, and the bay leaf. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 7

Stir in the half-and-half, canned clams, crispy bacon, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

Step 8

Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 9

Ladle the clam chowder into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm with oyster crackers or bread on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2136.7 grams (2136.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1871

Total Fat 99.30g	127%
Saturated Fat 49.00g	245%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.00g
Cholesterol 362mg	121%
Sodium 5556mg	242%
Total Carbohydrate 157.30g	57%
Dietary Fiber 11.00g	39%
Total Sugars 27.20g
Protein 97.00g	194%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 768mg	59%
Iron 79mg	436%
Potassium 3904mg	83%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 46.8%

Protein: 20.3%

Carbs: 32.9%