The aroma of savory, creamy broth mingling with the briny essence of fresh clams fills the air, making your mouth water. Broiled Clam Chowder is a dish that brings together flavors, textures, and a delightful crunch that is simply irresistible. seafood lovers’ favorite Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening, wrapped in your favorite blanket, and diving into a bowl of this deliciousness.
This recipe is not just another clam chowder; it’s an experience. I can still remember the first time I had clam chowder; it was at a seaside shack during one of those “life-changing” vacation moments. You know the kind where you’re eating something so good you want to weep tears of joy and gratitude simultaneously? Well, prepare for those tears because this broiled version takes that classic experience to another level.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Enjoy the rich, creamy flavor combined with a crunchy topping that offers perfect contrast.
- Preparation is simple, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or special occasion dish.
- The vibrant presentation will impress guests at any gathering or family meal.
- Plus, it’s versatile you can easily adapt it for personal tastes or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Broiled Clam Chowder
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Clams: Use about two dozen small to medium-sized clams, like littlenecks or cherrystones for optimal flavor.
- Potatoes: About two medium Yukon Gold potatoes work best; they provide creaminess without getting mushy.
- Bacon: Use four slices of thick-cut bacon for that irresistible smoky flavor.
- Onion: One medium onion will add depth to your chowder; choose yellow or sweet onions for best results.
- Garlic: Two cloves of fresh garlic bring aromatic goodness to this dish.
- Heavy Cream: About one cup adds luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp here!
- Chicken Broth: Use four cups to enhance the flavor profile; low-sodium varieties are great for control.
For the Topping:
- Panko Breadcrumbs: One cup creates that delightful crunch on top when broiled.
- Parmesan Cheese: A half-cup grated parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Broiled Clam Chowder
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Clean the Clams
Start by rinsing your clams under cold water to remove any sand or grit. Soaking them in water with cornmeal for about an hour can help too!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook your bacon until crispy. Once done, remove it from the pot and let it cool on paper towels while keeping the drippings in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same pot with bacon drippings, sauté diced onion until translucent about five minutes then add minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth
Toss in diced potatoes along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat and let simmer until potatoes are tender about ten minutes.
Step 5: Stir in Clams and Cream
Add cleaned clams and heavy cream into the mixture. Simmer until clams open up this usually takes about five minutes (discard any unopened ones).
Step 6: Prepare for Broiling
Transfer your chowder into an oven-safe dish. Mix panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese and sprinkle on top of the chowder generously.
Now broil on high for three to five minutes or until golden brown and bubbly! Transfer to plates and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping the perfect finishing touch.
With every slurp of this delightful Broiled Clam Chowder, you’ll be transported back to those coastal memories while being wrapped in warmth right at home! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delicious broiled clam chowder combines rich flavors of seafood and creamy goodness, making it a delight for the senses.
- It’s easy to prepare and sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
- Plus, it’s the perfect comfort food on chilly evenings.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add clams and broth, letting it simmer. Meanwhile, prepare the cream mixture separately before blending it all together for a luscious finish that will wow your taste buds.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your broiled clam chowder with different seafood like shrimp or crab. You can also swap in smoked paprika for a kick or toss in some corn for added sweetness. The possibilities are endless! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Shrimp Recipe recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to maintain that creamy texture without curdling.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh clams if possible frozen ones work too but lack that ocean breeze.
- Don’t forget to adjust seasoning gradually; tasting as you go makes all the difference!
- Lastly, broiling adds depth; just watch carefully to avoid burning.
Sometimes I whip up this broiled clam chowder when I want to relive beach vacations with friends, who always rave about how creamy and flavorful it is talk about a crowd-pleaser!
FAQs:
What is Broiled Clam Chowder?
Broiled clam chowder is a delightful variation of the traditional New England clam chowder. It combines the classic creamy base with a broiled topping, often made of breadcrumbs and cheese, to create a crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup. This dish showcases fresh clams and is typically seasoned with herbs, spices, and vegetables like onions and celery. The broiling process adds a new dimension to the flavor, making it an exciting twist on a beloved classic.
How do I make Broiled Clam Chowder?
To make broiled clam chowder, start by preparing a rich broth using fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and celery. Cook these ingredients until tender and add cream for richness. After blending everything together for a smooth texture, pour the chowder into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a mixture of breadcrumbs and cheese before broiling them in the oven until golden brown. This method gives the chowder a deliciously crunchy topping while keeping the soup underneath warm and creamy. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Scalloped Potatoes recipe.
Can I use canned clams for Broiled Clam Chowder?
Yes, you can certainly use canned clams when making broiled clam chowder. While fresh clams provide the best flavor and texture, canned clams are convenient and save time. Just be sure to drain them before adding them to your chowder. Adjusting cooking time is also necessary since canned clams are already cooked. This makes it easier to whip up this dish quickly without sacrificing too much flavor or quality.
What are some variations of Broiled Clam Chowder?
There are many delightful variations of broiled clam chowder you can explore! For instance, you can add different seafood such as shrimp or scallops for added depth of flavor. Some recipes incorporate bacon or smoked fish for a smoky taste that complements the clams perfectly. hearty side dish to complement seafood Additionally, experimenting with herbs like thyme or tarragon can infuse unique flavors into your chowder. cool and refreshing side option Don’t hesitate to adjust the creaminess or spice levels based on your personal preference.
Conclusion for Broiled Clam Chowder:
In conclusion, broiled clam chowder offers a delicious twist on the classic recipe with its crispy topping and creamy base. By using fresh or canned clams, you can create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The preparation process allows for creativity with various ingredients and seasonings while maintaining simplicity in execution. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this dish will surely impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and satisfying textures! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Broiled Clam Chowder
Broiled Clam Chowder is a decadent twist on the classic comfort dish, featuring a rich, creamy broth infused with the briny taste of fresh clams and topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this chowder delivers warmth and nostalgia in every spoonful. With straightforward preparation steps and adaptable ingredients, it’s a must-try for seafood lovers seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 2 dozen fresh clams (littlenecks or cherrystones)
- 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Clean the clams under cold water; soak in cornmeal water for an hour if needed.
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy; remove and let cool on paper towels.
- Sauté diced onion in bacon drippings until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add diced potatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender (about 10 minutes).
- Stir in cleaned clams and heavy cream; simmer until clams open (about 5 minutes), discarding any unopened ones.
- Transfer chowder to an oven-safe dish; mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan and sprinkle on top.
- Broil on high for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Fresh clams yield the best flavor but canned clams can be used as a time-saving alternative. Customize your chowder by adding shrimp or smoked paprika for added depth. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.
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