Northeastern Clam and Corn Chowder with Fresh Herbs

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-17 · Updated 2026-06-17

A hearty chowder combining sweet corn, fresh clams, and aromatic herbs for a comforting Northeastern U.S. inspired soup. This American-inspired soup recipe, ready in about 60 minutes, pairs fresh clams, cleaned, fresh corn kernels, bacon for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, cleaned
• 2 cups fresh corn kernels
• 4 slices, chopped bacon
• 1 medium, diced yellow onion
• 2, diced celery stalks
• 3, minced garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 medium, peeled and diced potatoes
• 4 cups clam juice
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp, chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, cook 4 chopped bacon slices until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving rendered fat.
2. Step 2: Add 2 tbsp butter, 1 diced yellow onion, and 2 diced celery stalks to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over vegetables, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to form a roux.
5. Step 5: Gradually whisk in 4 cups clam juice and add 2 diced medium potatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until potatoes are tender.
6. Step 6: Add 2 cups fresh corn kernels and 2 lbs cleaned clams. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until clams open. Discard any unopened clams.
7. Step 7: Stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat through for 3 minutes without boiling.
8. Step 8: Garnish with reserved crispy bacon pieces and serve warm with crusty bread.