This Microwave Clam Chowder is the ultimate comfort food hack for busy weeknights. It delivers all the rich, creamy flavors of traditional New England chowder without the fuss of stovetop simmering. The dish features tender diced potatoes and sweet clams swimming in a velvety milk-based broth, thickened perfectly with a simple flour slurry. Crispy bacon bits add a savory, smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the potatoes. It’s warm, satisfying, and incredibly easy to assemble. Perfect for a cozy dinner when you want something homemade but donâÂÂt have time for elaborate cooking. Serve it with fresh crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.
Microwave Clam Chowder
Description
This Microwave Clam Chowder is the ultimate comfort food hack for busy weeknights. It delivers all the rich, creamy flavors of traditional New England chowder without the fuss of stovetop simmering. The dish features tender diced potatoes and sweet clams swimming in a velvety milk-based broth, thickened perfectly with a simple flour slurry. Crispy bacon bits add a savory, smoky crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the potatoes. It&# 226;ÂÂs warm, satisfying, and incredibly easy to assemble. Perfect for a cozy dinner when you want something homemade but donâÂÂt have time for elaborate cooking. Serve it with fresh crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.Ingredients
Directions
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Cut bacon slices into 1/2-inch pieces.
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Place bacon in a covered 2-quart microwave-safe dish. Cook on high for 4-5 minutes or until crisp.
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Remove bacon with a slotted spoon to drain on paper towels; set aside. Leave drippings in the dish.
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Drain the juice from one 6-1/2 oz can of clams into the bacon drippings.
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Add 1 1/2 cups raw diced potatoes and 1/3 cup chopped onion to the dish.
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Cover and cook on high for 8-10 minutes, or until potatoes are tender, stirring once or twice during cooking.
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In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour into 1/4 cup of the 1 1/2 cups milk to create a smooth slurry.
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Stir the flour mixture into the potato mixture.
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Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 dash pepper, and the remaining 1 1/4 cups milk. Stir well.
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Cover and cook on medium power for 6 minutes, stirring once or twice, until thickened.
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Let the chowder stand, covered, for 3-5 minutes to thicken further.
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Gently stir in the drained clams and 1 teaspoon butter or margarine.
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Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and minced fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 541.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 42.0g65%
- Saturated Fat 14.0g70%
- Cholesterol 46.0mg16%
- Sodium 1717.0mg72%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.4g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.5g
- Protein 37.0g74%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, use a microwave-safe dish that is deep enough to prevent boiling over when stirring in the milk mixture.
If the chowder is too thick after standing, stir in a splash of additional milk or clam juice to reach your desired consistency.
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave, stirring halfway through, as the chowder will thicken upon cooling.
You can substitute smoked sausage for the bacon if you prefer a different savory profile.
