Creamy clam chowder served inside a hollowed sourdough bread bowl is a San Francisco family tradition. This protein-rich, iconic dish combines two Bay Area favorites into one warm, satisfying meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cut the tops off sourdough bread rounds and hollow them out, leaving a 1-inch shell. Lightly brush the insides with melted butter and bake for 10 minutes, until crisp.
In a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, cook bacon until browned and crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Remove bacon to a paper towel; discard all but 2 tbsp drippings.
Add butter to drippings. Sauté chopped onion and celery over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add diced potatoes and cook for 2 minutes, stirring often.
Sprinkle in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in clam juice (reserved from cans), milk, and heavy cream. Stir in bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat and cook for 12–15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Add chopped clams, crisped bacon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes more, stirring gently. Discard the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Ladle the hot clam chowder into the prepared sourdough bread bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.