Cozy nights are just around the corner, and there’s no better way to warm up than with a hearty bowl of creamy clam chowder. This classic comfort food is a staple in many cultures, and its versatility knows no bounds. From traditional New England-style recipes to innovative twists like Spicy Thai-Style Clam Chowder, we’ve gathered 20 deliciously creamy clam chowder recipes to suit every taste.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to impress. With options ranging from vegan and gluten-free to loaded with bacon and cheese, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab your apron, heat up the stove, and get ready to indulge in a culinary experience that will leave you feeling cozy and content.
New England Clam Chowder with Bacon
A classic New England recipe that combines the rich flavors of clams, potatoes, and smoky bacon in a creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy winter evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (fresh or canned)
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot with a slotted spoon.
2. Add butter, onion, and garlic to the pot; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add clams, potato, clam juice, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Return cooked bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot with oyster crackers or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Manhattan Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs
This recipe combines the richness of clams with the brightness of fresh herbs, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional Manhattan clam chowder.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams, clam juice, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low; add parsley and tarragon. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until clams open.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Slow Cooker Clam Chowder with Potatoes
This hearty clam chowder recipe is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day, with tender potatoes and clams cooked to perfection in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the butter, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Add the clams, potatoes, clam juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in the heavy cream just before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Thai-Style Clam Chowder
This recipe combines the classic flavors of clam chowder with the bold and spicy notes of Thai cuisine, making for a unique and delicious twist on a seafood soup.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chopped clams, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add clams, clam juice, coconut milk, curry paste, fish sauce, and cumin. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Clam Chowder with Mushrooms
This recipe is a plant-based twist on the classic New England chowder, featuring tender mushrooms and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup vegan cream (such as soy or oat-based)
– 1 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 cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the vegan cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Corn and Clam Chowder with Smoked Paprika
This creamy chowder combines sweet corn, tender clams, and a hint of smokiness from smoked paprika for a unique and delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 corn kernels, diced tomatoes, clam juice, heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Gluten-Free Clam Chowder with Coconut Milk
Enjoy a rich and flavorful seafood chowder that’s perfect for a cozy night in, without the gluten worries. This creamy coconut-based recipe substitutes traditional dairy products, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter or ghee
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter or ghee in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, coconut milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the clams are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Loaded Clam Chowder with Cheddar and Chives
This creamy chowder is a twist on the classic recipe, loaded with chunks of fresh clams, crispy bacon, and a blend of sharp cheddar and sweet chives. Perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped chives
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add crumbled bacon, clams, clam juice, heavy cream, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let chowder cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and chopped chives.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rustic Clam Chowder with Leeks and Thyme
This hearty chowder combines tender clams, sweet leeks, and savory thyme for a warm and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. A rustic twist on the classic recipe, this version uses small clams and a rich, buttery broth to create a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large leek, cleaned and chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 cups clam juice
– 1 pound small clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped leek and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in clam juice and bring to a simmer. Add clams and thyme. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until clams are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Quick and Easy Clam Chowder for Weeknights
This classic clam chowder recipe is a staple for busy weeknights, requiring only 20 minutes of cooking time. Perfectly creamy and flavorful, it’s sure to become a go-to meal in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk and clam juice, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add chopped clams and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chowder has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Bacon and Jalapeño Clam Chowder
A spicy twist on a classic recipe, this chowder combines the richness of bacon with the heat of jalapeños and the brininess of clams.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1 pound of clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup of clam juice
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and jalapeños to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the clams, clam juice, heavy cream, and thyme to the pot.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the clams are cooked through.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Clam Chowder with Oyster Crackers
A comforting and creamy soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this classic clam chowder recipe is a staple of New England cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups diced clams (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 6 oyster crackers, crushed (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add clams, flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot with crushed oyster crackers on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Medley Chowder with Clams and Shrimp
Warm up with this flavorful seafood chowder, featuring tender clams and succulent shrimp in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 and shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in clam juice and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream and paprika.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Clam Chowder with White Wine
A creamy and flavorful chowder that combines the brininess of clams with the subtlety of herbs and white wine. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add clam juice, heavy cream, white wine, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add clams and cook until opened (5-7 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Clam Chowder with Chipotle Peppers
A twist on the classic clam chowder, this recipe adds a smoky depth from chipotle peppers that will leave you craving for more. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clams, scrubbed and chopped (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 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, paprika, chipotle pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk; stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich and Creamy Clam Chowder with Heavy Cream
Rich and Creamy Clam Chowder with Heavy Cream
A classic New England-style clam chowder gets a luxurious twist with the addition of heavy cream, creating a rich and velvety soup that’s perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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. Add clams, clam juice, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Light Clam Chowder with Vegetable Broth
This recipe offers a lighter take on traditional clam chowder, using vegetable broth to add depth of flavor without the richness. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and scrubbed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup milk or cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine clams, vegetable broth, onion, garlic, and potato.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
5. If desired, stir in milk or cream to add creaminess.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Clam Chowder with Gruyère
This classic chowder gets a luxurious twist with the addition of nutty, creamy Gruyère cheese. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fish stock (or clam juice)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams, flour, milk, heavy cream, fish stock, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low; let chowder simmer for 10-15 minutes or until clams are tender.
4. Stir in Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Clam Chowder with Crusty Bread
This creamy clam chowder gets a boost of flavor from the addition of garlic butter, served with crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) 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
– 4 cups clam chowder broth (homemade or store-bought)
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, clam juice, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Add clams and clam chowder broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 5-7 minutes or until clams are cooked through.
5. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam Chowder with Fresh Dill and Lemon Zest
This creamy chowder gets a bright and refreshing twist from the addition of fresh dill and lemon zest, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 teaspoons lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams, clam juice, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
4. Stir in chopped fresh dill and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a chilly night with one of these 20 creamy clam chowder recipes! From classic New England styles to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Choose from recipes like Manhattan Clam Chowder with Fresh Herbs, Slow Cooker Clam Chowder with Potatoes, or even Vegan Clam Chowder with Mushrooms. Whether you’re in the mood for smoky, spicy, or rich and creamy flavors, these clam chowders are sure to hit the spot.
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