Are you ready to dive into a world of creamy, dreamy flavors? Look no further! In this article, we’re counting down our top 18 Legal Seafood Clam Chowder recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From classic and comforting to bold and adventurous, these chowders have got it all.
Whether you’re in the mood for something smoky and spicy or fresh and herby, we’ve got a recipe to match. Our twisty takes on this beloved dish include everything from crispy bacon and thyme to sherry-infused goodness. So grab your spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive into the creamiest of chowders!
Crispy Bacon and Thyme Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
Warm up with a creamy and flavorful chowder that combines the richness of clams, crispy bacon, and the brightness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chopped clams (fresh or canned)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add crumbled bacon and cook until crispy.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add clam juice and heavy cream, whisking continuously.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Add chopped clams and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
New England Style Legal Seafood Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs
This classic New England clam chowder gets a boost of flavor from the addition of fresh herbs, making it a perfect winter comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2-3 medium)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs: parsley, dill, or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add clams, clam juice, milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add potatoes and flour. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Legal Seafood Clam Chowder with Chipotle
A twist on traditional clam chowder, this recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with succulent clams and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a warm-up after a day outdoors.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams, chicken broth, heavy cream, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook until clams are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or cilantro if desired.
5. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
This rich and flavorful chowder is a twist on the classic seafood soup, featuring the bold flavors of Legal Seafood’s signature garlic butter. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped cooked potatoes
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, clam juice, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Add clams and potatoes. Cook until clams are opened and potatoes are heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Creamy Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
A rich and creamy chowder that’s sure to become a family favorite! This recipe is inspired by the iconic seafood chain, with its tender clams, savory broth, and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (10 oz) can of condensed cream of clam soup
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cream of clam soup and bring to a simmer.
4. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously.
5. Add clams, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir gently to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
7. Stir in chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Cajun Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
This spicy twist on classic clam chowder combines the flavors of Louisiana with the freshness of clams, creating a bold and delicious soup perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add clams, flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add diced tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Coconut Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
A creamy, rich, and indulgent vegan twist on the classic clam chowder, featuring coconut milk and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
A creamy and indulgent twist on traditional clam chowder, this recipe combines the rich flavors of Legal Seafood with the comforting warmth of a loaded baked potato.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baked potatoes
– 1/2 cup clams, chopped (Legal Seafood or fresh)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or scallions for garnish
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add clams, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Slice baked potatoes in half lengthwise and spoon chowder over the top. Garnish with chives and shredded cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Bacon and Corn Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
This creamy chowder combines the rich flavors of bacon, sweet corn, and succulent clams for a hearty and delicious seafood soup. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a comforting meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 6 slices of Legal Seafood bacon, diced
– 2 cups clam juice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon; set aside.
3. Add clam juice, milk, heavy cream, potatoes, and corn kernels to the pot.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in cooked clams and crumbled bacon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rosemary-Infused Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
A creamy and aromatic take on the classic clam chowder, infused with the herbal flavor of rosemary. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2-3 medium-sized)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rosemary leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add clams, flour, clam juice, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Dill and Lemon Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
A refreshing twist on traditional clam chowder, this recipe combines the brininess of clams with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of dill. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups clams, scrubbed and chopped (or 1 can of clams)
– 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, clam juice, and heavy cream.
4. Add clams, dill weed, and lemon juice.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook until clams are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Legal Seafood Clam Chowder with Cheddar
Savor the flavors of the coast with this rich and creamy clam chowder, elevated by the addition of sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped ( Legal Seafood brand recommended)
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra-sharp recommended)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, heavy cream, milk, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Gradually stir in flour to avoid lumps.
5. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Herb-Crusted Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
Savor the rich flavors of the East Coast with this creamy and savory clam chowder, infused with a hint of herbs and a touch of sophistication.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can clams, drained and chopped
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add clams, clam juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich Lobster Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
This creamy chowder is a seafood lover’s dream come true, packed with chunks of succulent lobster, clams, and othersea delicacies. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
– 1/2 pound lobster meat, diced
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add clams, flour, and Old Bay seasoning. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until clams open.
5. Stir in lobster meat; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
Experience the classic flavors of New England’s coast with this gluten-free version of Legal Seafood’s famous clam chowder. This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup gluten-free clam juice
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, milk, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Whisk in gluten-free flour to thicken the chowder.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sherry-Infused Legal Seafood Clam Chowder
Experience the rich flavors of the East Coast with this creamy and indulgent clam chowder infused with sherry. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sherry wine
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2-3 medium-sized)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour and cook for an additional minute.
4. Gradually add clam juice, heavy cream, and sherry wine. Whisk until smooth.
5. Add chopped clams, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chowder thickens slightly.
6. Stir in diced potatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-22 minutes
Curried Legal Seafood Clam Chowder with Turmeric
This flavorful chowder combines the warmth of curried spices with the comfort of creamy clam chowder, featuring succulent Legal Seafood clams.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14.5 oz) clams, drained and chopped
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add clams, clam juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Slow-Cooked Legal Seafood Clam Chowder with Leeks
Experience the rich flavors of New England’s coast without leaving your kitchen! This hearty clam chowder recipe combines tender leeks, succulent clams, and creamy potatoes for a comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 medium leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 6 cups clam juice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (such as Legal Seafood brand)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat; add leeks and onion, cooking until tender (8-10 minutes).
2. Add clam juice, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in melted butter and clams. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in creamy and delicious Legal Seafood Clam Chowder recipes with a twist! From classic and comforting to smoky and spicy, this collection offers 18 unique variations that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Try adding crispy bacon and thyme, fresh herbs from New England, or chipotle peppers for a smoky kick. Or, go bold with vegan coconut, cheesy cheddar, or rich lobster options. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free or slow-cooked version, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection of Legal Seafood Clam Chowder recipes.