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Best Easy Christmas Eve Clam Chowder Recipe

Name: Best Easy Christmas Eve Clam Chowder Recipe
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 350 g
Ingredients: clams, chopped with juice 3 cups; russet potatoes, diced 2 cups; yellow onion, chopped 1 cup; celery, diced 1 cup; bacon, chopped 4 slices; whole milk 2 cups; heavy cream 1 cup; unsalted butter 2 tbsp; all-purpose flour 3 tbsp; bay leaf 1 piece; salt 1 tsp; black pepper 0.5 tsp; fresh parsley, chopped 2 tbsp

Rich, creamy Christmas Eve clam chowder is a high protein, seafood family tradition for the holiday feast. This warming, comforting soup is a beloved part of seasonal celebrations.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 285 kcal

#high protein #seafood #holiday tradition

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Ingredients

Main ingredients

clams, chopped with juice 3 cups
russet potatoes, diced 2 cups
yellow onion, chopped 1 cup
celery, diced 1 cup
bacon, chopped 4 slices
whole milk 2 cups
heavy cream 1 cup

Seasonings/Sauce

unsalted butter 2 tbsp
all-purpose flour 3 tbsp
bay leaf 1 piece
salt 1 tsp
black pepper 0.5 tsp
fresh parsley, chopped 2 tbsp

Nutrition summary

Carbohydrates 26 g 37%

Protein 17 g 24%

Fat 11 g 39%

Serving size 350g

Cooking steps

1

In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving 2 tbsp fat in the pot.
2

Add butter to the bacon fat. Stir in onions and celery, sautéing over medium-low heat until softened but not browned, about 5 minutes.
3

Sprinkle flour over vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to form a smooth roux with no dry spots.
4

Gradually whisk in clam juice (from clams) and add diced potatoes and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook until potatoes are just tender, 10–12 minutes.
5

Reduce heat to low. Stir in clams, whole milk, and heavy cream; season with salt and black pepper. Simmer without boiling for 6–8 minutes to meld flavors and prevent curdling.
6

Remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the chowder into bowls and garnish with reserved bacon and fresh parsley.

Personalized Q&A

Q. What's the key ingredient in this chowder recipe?

Clams are the signature ingredient in this Christmas Eve Clam Chowder, providing briny depth, seafood umami, and the classic taste that defines the soup as a holiday tradition.

Q. How do you prevent the chowder from curdling when adding dairy?

To avoid curdling, lower the heat before adding whole milk and heavy cream. Simmer gently (do not boil) so the dairy integrates smoothly, preserving the creamy texture.

Q. What's the best timing trick for perfectly tender potatoes?

Add diced potatoes once the roux and aromatics are ready, and simmer just until fork-tender—about 10–12 minutes. Overcooking can result in broken or mushy pieces.

Q. How many calories and how much protein are in a serving?

Each 350g serving contains approximately 285 kcal and 17g of protein, making it a warming, balanced, and high-protein choice for festive gatherings.

Q. What ingredient thickens the chowder and enhances body?

All-purpose flour, combined with butter, creates a roux that gently thickens the chowder base and gives it a classic creamy consistency.

Best Easy Christmas Eve Clam Chowder Recipe

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