Easy Clam Chowder

Easy Clam Chowder

from damndelicious.net
45 min

Easy Clam Chowder - Clam chowder is easier to make than you think - and the homemade version is unbelievably creamy, flavorful and chockfull of clams!

Ingredients

  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup vegetable stock
  • 2 (6.5-ounce) cans chopped clams, juices reserved
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup half and half*
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon excess fat in the stockpot.

  2. 2

    Melt butter in the stockpot. Add garlic and onion, and cook, stirring frequently, until onions have become translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in thyme until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  3. 3

    Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, vegetable stock, clam juice and bay leaf, and cook, whisking constantly, until slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in potatoes.

  4. 4

    Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 12-15 minutes.*

  5. 5

    Stir in half and half and clams until heated through, about 1-2 minutes; season with salt and pepper, to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more half and half as needed until desired consistency is reached.

  6. 6

    Serve immediately, garnished with bacon and parsley, if desired.