Clam Chowder Recipe – Creamy, Hearty New England Style Soup

Clam Chowder Recipe

This classic clam chowder recipe brings together tender clams, creamy Yukon gold potatoes, and a rich, comforting broth, creating a soup that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Featured on Everyday Excellent, this chowder combines fresh canned clams, aromatic onions, and a hint of cayenne pepper for depth of flavor. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or serving a flavorful appetizer for friends, this chowder is both simple to make and incredibly satisfying.

The Inspiration

Clam chowder has deep roots in New England cuisine, where early settlers combined locally harvested clams with simple pantry staples to create a nourishing, hearty soup. This recipe pays homage to that tradition while adding a modern twist with a hint of cayenne pepper for subtle heat and scallion garnish for brightness. Host Vanessa Gianfrancesco’s approach emphasizes making the most of fresh, quality ingredients without complicated techniques, making it accessible for home cooks. Viewers of Everyday Excellent love this recipe for its balance of creaminess, briny flavor, and comforting texture—perfect for both weeknight meals and elegant dinner parties.

Ingredients 

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 small-medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into ½ inch cubes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 (6 oz) cans whole clams
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 scallion, sliced, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oyster crackers for serving, optional

Methods

• Strain the clams, reserving the clam juice separately.
• Melt the butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 3 minutes, or until onion is translucent. Stir in the dried thyme, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of pepper, then stir in the flour.
• Add the chicken broth and clam juice and bring to a simmer, then add the potatoes. Cover and cook for 10 minutes. Stir in the cream, cover again, and cook for 10 minutes more.
• Stir in clams and season to taste with salt. Serve garnished with scallion and with oyster crackers on the side, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy clam chowder is best enjoyed warm as a hearty lunch, comforting dinner, or even as an appetizer for a seafood-themed meal. Serve alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the soup. For an elegant touch, garnish with extra scallions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added depth. Pair the chowder with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light ale to complement the briny clams. For casual gatherings, oyster crackers or lightly toasted baguette slices make dipping fun and interactive. This chowder also reheats beautifully, making it an excellent make-ahead option for meal prep or entertaining.

Final Thoughts

This clam chowder recipe is a celebration of New England comfort food, blending briny clams, tender potatoes, and rich cream for a bowl of pure satisfaction. Its simplicity, flavor depth, and accessibility make it ideal for both beginner and experienced home cooks. Whether you’re looking to recreate a classic East Coast soup or introduce a creamy, flavorful dish to your dinner rotation, this recipe delivers every time. The combination of easy-to-find ingredients and quick cooking time ensures that you can enjoy restaurant-quality clam chowder from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Discover more seafood and soup recipes from Everyday Excellent and explore the versatility of simple ingredients transformed into comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes. This chowder is not only flavorful but also perfect for creating memorable meals for family and friends.

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