Description
This Budget Clam Chowder is a rich, creamy, and hearty soup made with simple, affordable ingredients. Using canned clams, potatoes, and a homemade creamy broth, this recipe delivers all the classic flavors of a New England-style clam chowder—without breaking the bank. Perfect for a cozy meal on a budget!
Ingredients
For the Chowder:
• 2 tbsp butter or vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
• 2 (6.5 oz) cans chopped clams, with juice
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk (or evaporated milk for extra creaminess)
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup heavy cream (or more milk for a lighter version)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
• ¼ tsp paprika (for extra depth)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water, for thickening)
Optional Add-Ins:
• 4 strips bacon, chopped (for extra flavor)
• 1 small carrot, grated (for sweetness)
• ½ cup frozen corn (for added texture)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Base: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. If using bacon, cook it first until crispy, then add onions and garlic.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Add diced potatoes, clam juice (from the cans), broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
3. Make It Creamy: Stir in milk and heavy cream. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Let simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Thicken the Chowder: Mix cornstarch with water and slowly stir it into the soup. Let it cook for a few more minutes until it thickens.
5. Add Clams & Serve: Stir in the canned clams and let them heat through (about 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to overcook, or they’ll become rubbery.
6. Final Touch: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley or crumbled bacon if available. Serve hot with crackers or toasted bread.
Notes
• No clams? You can replace them with canned tuna or white fish for a seafood-style chowder.
• Need it dairy-free? Use coconut milk instead of dairy.
• No cornstarch? Mash a few potatoes into the broth to thicken it naturally.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cheap clam chowder, budget seafood soup, easy chowder recipe, poor man’s clam chowder, affordable comfort food