Rich and Creamy Clam Chowder with Bacon Recipe

Recipe Overview

Welcome to a hearty and comforting bowl of easy clam chowder with bacon, a classic New England dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. This homemade clam chowder with bacon from scratch features tender clams, aromatic spices, and crunchy, smoky bacon all enveloped in a luscious, creamy broth. With each spoonful, you will experience the richness of flavors that can only come from a well-crafted chowder made with love and care.

The origins of clam chowder vary, with each region bringing its unique twist to this beloved dish. However, one thing is for sure: when it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like clam chowder loaded with crispy bacon. Whether you’re looking for a warming dish for a cold day or a delightful starter for your dinner party, this recipe is bound to impress your family and friends. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve at special occasions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serving Size: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Chowder:

4 slices of bacon (preferably thick-cut, diced)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
2 cups of fresh or canned clams (with juice included)
4 cups of clam juice or seafood stock
1 cup of heavy cream
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for thickening)
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Ingredient Swaps:

For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.
Use chicken stock instead of clam juice for a milder flavor.
If you want a lower-carb version, consider using cauliflower instead of potatoes.

Equipment List

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Soup ladle
Serving bowls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Bacon: Begin by placing your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes. As it renders its fat, the kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of smoked bacon.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Once the bacon is golden, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté them in the bacon fat until translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
Add Potatoes and Clam Juice: Next, stir in the diced potatoes and cooked bacon. Pour in the clam juice or seafood stock, making sure to scrape any brown bits off the pot’s bottom for deeper flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Prepare the Creamy Base: In a medium bowl, combine the heavy cream and flour. Whisk until smooth. This mixture will add a velvety richness to your chowder. Slowly add this creamy mix to the pot, stirring continuously to maintain a smooth texture.
Add Clams and Season: Stir in the clams along with their juices. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the chowder to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, just enough for the clams to warm through. You’ll know it’s ready when you see small bubbles rising to the surface and the aroma fills your kitchen.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the clam chowder into serving bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. The contrast of colors is as inviting as the chunky chowder itself! Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Special Notes

For storing leftovers, let the chowder cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. If you find the chowder too thick upon reheating, add an extra splash of clam juice or milk until the desired consistency is achieved.

If you want to make this chowder ahead of time, feel free to complete steps 1 and 2 in advance. Just remember, clam chowder often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Variations and Customizations

There are countless ways to customize this clam chowder, allowing you to cater to various dietary preferences:

Gluten-Free: To ensure this recipe is gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Vegan: Make a vegan version by replacing the bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke, using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and veggie broth instead of clam juice.
Add Vegetables: Enhance nutrition by adding bell peppers, corn, or celery early in the cooking process.
Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to taste.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 380
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g

Engaging Visual Details

As you cook, take a moment to appreciate the transformation of your ingredients. The initial sizzling sound of bacon in the pot creates an inviting atmosphere. Once you add the onions, their sweet fragrance combined with the earthy scent of garlic fills the kitchen. When the chowder is complete, it should be creamy, with specks of bacon resting atop the vibrant broth, and the potatoes cutting through the richness with every bite. The final touch, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, adds a pop of green, complementing the golden hues perfectly.

Consider integrating step-by-step visual images, such as the browning bacon, the tender potatoes, and the final beautifully garnished bowls of chowder to guide readers through each stage of the cooking process.

Conclusion

This rich and creamy clam chowder with bacon is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. It encapsulates the ideal combination of flavors and textures that comfort food lovers crave. Don’t hesitate to give this easy clam chowder with bacon recipe a try. Leave a comment below if you tried this recipe, sharing your experiences or any personal touches you made. Share your version on Instagram, and tag us with MyDeliciousDish. Happy cooking!