Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder: 4 Ways to Comfort

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chowder, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker. My Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder is a creamy, hearty delight that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and your heart with warmth. Picture this: you come home after a long day, and the rich scent of garlic, thyme, and clams greets you at the door. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! Trust me, this recipe is perfect for any occasion – from family dinners to gatherings with friends. The best part? You can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do all the work while you kick back and relax. And don’t worry if you’re not a cooking whiz; I’ll guide you through every step, making it easy for anyone to whip up this delicious dish. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the world of clam chowder that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder

Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing chowder:

• 2 lb potatoes (roughly 5 cups), peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces for that perfect texture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced to add that delightful aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup onion, chopped finely; it brings sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup celery, chopped for a nice crunch and fresh taste.
• 7 oz canned corn, drained to bring a little sweetness to the mix.
• 1 1/2 tsp salt, to enhance all the flavors.
• 1 1/2 tsp white pepper (or ground black pepper) for a gentle kick.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional), if you like a bit of heat!
• 2 bay leaves, to infuse a lovely herbal aroma.
• 1 1/2 tsp thyme, dried or fresh, to add earthiness.
• 24 oz canned clams (4 cans of 6 oz each), with juice for that rich seafood flavor.
• 8 oz clam juice to deepen the oceanic essence.
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped; it adds a smoky richness (reserve ¼ cup for topping).
• 1-2 Tbsp beef grease (optional), for added depth of flavor.
• 2 Tbsp cornstarch, to thicken the chowder to perfection.
• 2 cups heavy cream, to make it luscious and creamy!

How to Prepare Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! This step-by-step guide will help you create the most delicious chowder with ease.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Clams

First things first, let’s get those veggies ready! Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly and blend perfectly into the chowder. Next, finely chop your garlic, onion, and celery. I love the smell of garlic filling the air – it really sets the mood! Now, open the cans of clams and drain them, but don’t toss that juice! We’ll use it to add a robust flavor to the chowder. Combine all these prepared ingredients in your slow cooker, along with the canned corn, seasonings, bay leaves, and thyme. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Now, let’s move on to the beef. In a skillet over medium heat, cook your chopped bacon until it’s crispy and golden. Reserve about ¼ cup of those crunchy bits for topping later – trust me, it’s worth it! If you want an extra flavor boost, you can add some beef grease to the skillet while cooking. Once the bacon is ready, toss the rest into the slow cooker with the vegetable mixture. This will infuse the chowder with that delicious smoky goodness.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

With all your ingredients in the slow cooker, it’s time to combine and let the magic happen! Pour in the clam juice and give everything a nice stir. Cover the slow cooker and set it to high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours. You want to make sure to resist the urge to peek too often – trust me, the aroma will be tempting! Just let it do its thing and enjoy the anticipation.

Step 4: Thicken the Chowder

After the cooking time is up, it’s time to thicken your chowder for that perfect creamy texture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and heavy cream until smooth – this is your secret weapon for richness! Slowly pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir gently to combine. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that velvety consistency that makes chowder so comforting. Once done, you’re ready to serve up a bowl of pure deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder is a game-changer for so many reasons:

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. No fuss, no stress!
• Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of clams, bacon, and heavy cream creates a chowder that’s bursting with deliciousness.
• Perfect Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chowder on a chilly day. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
• Great for Gatherings: This recipe easily serves 6-8, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy get-togethers with friends.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or add your favorite veggies to make it your own!

Tips for Success with Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder

To make sure your Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh clams and produce. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavors and make a noticeable difference in the final dish.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: If you can, stick to the recommended cooking times. The slow cooking process allows all those flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty chowder.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you find your chowder isn’t thick enough, don’t hesitate to add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water. Just remember to let it cook a little longer after adding!
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A little extra thyme or a splash of hot sauce can take this chowder to the next level!
• Garnish Creatively: When serving, top each bowl with the reserved bacon bits and maybe a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. The following estimates are based on a serving size of 1 cup of Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder:

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 10g

Always check with specific brands or products for the most accurate information!

FAQ about Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder

Got questions about making the perfect Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up:

Q1: Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh clams will give your chowder a fantastic flavor. Just steam them until they open, then chop and add them to the slow cooker along with their juice for an even richer taste.

Q2: How can I make this chowder thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chowder, you can adjust the cornstarch amount or let it cook longer with the lid off to reduce the liquid. Just remember to stir occasionally!

Q3: What can I serve with clam chowder?
This chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside classic New England dishes like lobster rolls or fried clams for a true coastal experience!

Q4: Can I make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This chowder actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the slow cooker when you’re ready to serve.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Let the chowder cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or you can freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat when you’re craving that comforting flavor again!

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder

When it comes to enjoying your Slow Cooker New England Clam Chowder, the right sides can elevate the whole meal experience! I love serving it with some warm, crusty sourdough or a fluffy baguette for dipping – it’s just perfect for soaking up that creamy goodness. A light, crisp green salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the chowder’s richness. You might also consider classic New England sides like lobster rolls or fried clams for a truly coastal feast. And don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs or bacon bits on top for that extra touch of flavor and crunch!

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