A comforting chowder is packed with tender clams, creamy potatoes, and savory bacon, all cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day and impress your family.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time55 min
Difficulty
Hard
Simple Cooking Tips
Use fresh or high-quality canned clams for the best flavor.
Avoid overcooking the clams to keep them tender and juicy.
Stir occasionally to prevent the chowder from sticking to the skillet and burning.
Ingredients
0/17
What Makes This Recipe Unique
Warm, comforting, and packed with rich flavors from fresh clams and creamy broth. Cooking it in a cast iron skillet adds a lovely depth and even heat, making every bite satisfying and hearty.
Step 1
Gently heat the bacon grease in a cast iron Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic, and cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 to 10 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour, salt, garlic powder, liquid smoke, and black pepper, then stir well to coat all the veggies evenly.
Step 2
Pour in the chicken broth along with the reserved clam juice. Bring it to a gentle simmer over low heat and let it cook until the potatoes and carrots are tender, which should take around 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 3
While that’s simmering, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Whisk in the cornstarch until you get a smooth paste, then slowly add the milk and cream. Keep stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 4
Pour this creamy mixture into the vegetable and broth pot, stirring as you go. Let the chowder cook gently over low heat until it thickens up nicely, around 5 to 10 minutes. Add the corn and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 5
Finally, stir in the chopped clams and warm everything through for about 5 more minutes. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you need to, then it’s ready to serve!
317
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
Best Serving Ideas
Serve this chowder hot with crusty bread or oyster crackers on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a nice color and fresh taste. Pair it with a light salad for a balanced meal.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the chowder creamy and smooth. Avoid freezing to maintain the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, fresh clams can be used. Steam them first, chop, and use the cooking liquid in place of the canned clam juice.
What can I substitute for bacon grease if I don’t have any?
You can use butter or olive oil instead of bacon grease for sautéing the vegetables.
Is it okay to use regular flour instead of cornstarch to thicken the chowder?
You can use flour, but cornstarch provides a clearer, silkier texture. If using flour, mix it with cold water before adding to avoid lumps.
Can I make this chowder dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cream substitute.
How can I store leftovers and how long do they last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid curdling.
Can I add other vegetables to this chowder?
Absolutely, feel free to add celery, peas, or other veggies you like. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What does the liquid smoke add to the chowder?
It adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the bacon grease and enhances the overall depth of the chowder.
Can I prepare any part of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop the vegetables and prepare the creamy mixture ahead to save time when cooking.
This simple and flavorful burger combines ground chicken with hearty chickpeas for a healthy twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknigh...
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Meals
Drinks
Vegan
