Name: Delicious Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs fresh clams (can substitute with 2 cups canned clams with juice if needed.); 2 cups clam juice (enhances the seafood flavor.); 4 slices bacon, diced (adds flavor and crunch.); 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables.); 1 medium onion, diced (provides a sweet base flavor.); 2 stalks celery, diced (adds crunch.); 2 medium carrots, diced (adds sweetness and color.); 1 medium red bell pepper, diced (provides sweetness and color.); 3 cloves garlic, minced (for aroma and flavor.); 28 oz canned diced tomatoes (adds acidity.); 2 large potatoes, diced (for heartiness.); 1 ea bay leaf (adds subtle flavor.); 1 tsp fresh thyme (for enhancing the dish.); to taste salt and pepper (for seasoning.); 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (for garnish.)

0 Shares

There’s something truly comforting about a steaming bowl of Manhattan Clam Chowder, especially on chilly evenings when the wind howls outside. I was inspired to recreate this classic dish after savoring a remarkable version from a cozy restaurant in New York City. The rich medley of fresh clams, diced tomatoes, and crisp bacon warms the soul and provides a delightful escape from the mundane takeout routine.

What I love most about this Ina Garten-inspired recipe is its versatility and ease. You can whip it up on a slow Sunday evening or impress guests at your next gathering without breaking a sweat. Trust me; they’ll never guess it came together in just an hour! With fresh veggies providing vibrant flavors and textures, this chowder is an inviting feast that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Let’s dive in and bring a taste of New England right to your kitchen!

Why love this Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder?

Comforting Warmth: Nothing says comfort quite like a bowl of chowder, especially with the hearty combination of clams and crispy bacon.

Quick Preparation: You’ll love that it comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining!

Fresh Ingredients: This recipe shines with fresh veggies and clams, ensuring vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture.

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a hit for both family and guests, offering that “wow” factor without the fuss—who doesn’t love a little culinary magic?

Versatile Serving: Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal or pair with a simple salad for a light lunch. Enjoy a delightful escape from the usual takeout!

Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder Ingredients

• Discover what makes this chowder irresistible!

For the Chowder

2 lbs fresh clams – fresh clams bring a briny depth, but you can substitute with 2 cups canned clams with juice if needed.
2 cups clam juice – this enhances the seafood flavor and adds richness to the chowder.
4 slices bacon, diced – crispy bacon not only adds flavor but also a satisfying crunch.
2 tbsp olive oil – used to sauté the vegetables while keeping it healthier.
1 onion, diced – this provides a sweet base flavor that builds the chowder’s foundation.
2 celery stalks, diced – adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the bacon.
2 carrots, diced – sweet carrots bring a colorful touch and wonderful sweetness.
1 red bell pepper, diced – use for a hint of sweetness and vibrant color in your chowder.
3 garlic cloves, minced – garlic infuses a lovely aroma and savory flavor throughout.
28 oz canned diced tomatoes – adds acidity and bright notes, crucial for a perfect Manhattan chowder.
2 large potatoes, diced – these provide heartiness and texture, making the chowder filling.
1 bay leaf – adds subtle flavor depth as it simmers with the chowder.
1 tsp fresh thyme – fresh herbs elevate the dish, enhancing its comforting essence.
Salt and pepper, to taste – don’t forget to season wisely; adjust to bring out all the flavors!
2 tbsp parsley – chopped parsley adds a pop of freshness and makes for a lovely garnish.

This Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder will surely become a cherished recipe in your kitchen!

How to Make Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder

Steam Clams: If using fresh clams, steam them in a pot for about 5–7 minutes until they open. Reserve the cooking liquid and chop the clams into bite-sized pieces.
Cook Bacon: In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
Sauté Veggies: Add olive oil to the same pot. Sauté the diced onion, celery, carrots, red bell pepper, and minced garlic until softened, roughly 5–7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, clam juice, diced potatoes, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 20–25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Add Clams and Bacon: Stir the chopped clams and the reserved bacon back into the pot, allowing everything to simmer together for 5 additional minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the chowder into bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder

Fresh Clams: If possible, opt for fresh clams; they’re more flavorful than canned. Just be sure to steam them until they open!
Crispy Bacon: Don’t rush the bacon! Cook it until crispy, as it adds texture and depth to the chowder.
Vegetable Balance: Chop your vegetables uniformly for even cooking and a pleasing presentation. This helps avoid mushy bits when making your Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. Depending on the clam juice used, you might need to adjust the salt and pepper.
Simmer Time: Allow the chowder to simmer properly to develop flavors, ensuring the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

What to Serve with Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder?

When enjoying a warm bowl of chowder, you want to create a delightful meal experience that satisfies all your senses.

Crusty Bread: The perfect companion to soak up every drop of chowder, enhancing the overall comfort of your meal.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich chowder.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like zucchini and carrots bring a sweet, savory note, providing a colorful plate that delights the eye.
Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of this crisp white wine complements the brininess of the clams and enhances your dining experience.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: For extra seafood flavor, these succulent shrimp pull double duty and add a vibrant twist, perfect alongside the chowder.
Cheesy Biscuit Bites: Light and fluffy, these biscuits can be dunked into the chowder for an indulgent bite that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Apple Crisp: Finish on a sweet note with this warm dessert; its cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery crunch will balance the savory chowder perfectly.
Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing palate cleanser, this dessert is a delightful way to end your meal after the hearty chowder.
Iced Tea with Mint: A cool beverage that refreshes after every spoonful, enhancing the comfort of your homemade chowder.

Creating a full meal around your Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder not only impresses but also nourishes the soul. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder make-ahead tips are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base (without the clams and bacon) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1-4, allow the chowder to cool, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. To maintain quality, make sure it cools completely before sealing. The next day, reheat the chowder on the stove over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, then stir in the clams and bacon (adding them fresh ensures they remain flavorful and tender). This way, you’ll have a hearty and delicious chowder ready to warm your home and serve your family effortlessly!

How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: Freeze the chowder in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion, as liquids can expand when frozen.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Texture Tip: When frozen, the chowder may separate slightly; just stir well during reheating to bring it back together. Enjoy your Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder even on those busy days!

Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder Variations

Feel free to mix and match these tasty ideas to make this chowder your very own!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon and use gluten-free bread for dipping.
Seafood Twist: Add shrimp or scallops for a luxurious seafood blend; they cook quickly and enhance flavors.
Vegetarian: Swap clams and bacon for mushrooms and smoked paprika to maintain deep umami flavors while keeping it veggie-friendly.
Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, creamy consistency that feels indulgent.
Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to ignite your taste buds, warming the chowder beautifully.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked salmon instead of bacon for a sophisticated twist; it pairs well with the chowder’s broth.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with dill or cilantro as alternative herbs for a fresh take that brightens the dish remarkably.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving to add a refreshing pop that balances the chowder’s richness.

Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder Recipe FAQs

How do I select fresh clams?
Absolutely, when choosing fresh clams, look for ones that are tightly closed and feel heavy for their size. Avoid clams with cracked shells or those that are open, as these indicate they might be dead or spoiled. If you’re opting for canned clams, choose brands with no added preservatives for the best flavor.

How should I store leftover chowder?
For the best taste, store any leftover chowder in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the chowder cool to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation from affecting its quality.

Can I freeze Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder?
Yes! You can freeze this chowder in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just leave some space at the top for the chowder to expand as it freezes. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat until warmed through, stirring often.

What if my chowder is too thick after reheating?
If your chowder turns out thicker than desired after freezing, you can add a splash of clam juice or water when reheating to reach your preferred consistency. Give it a good stir, and it should come back to life beautifully!

Is this chowder suitable for people with shellfish allergies?
Unfortunately, this chowder contains clams, which can trigger allergens in sensitive individuals. If you’re cooking for someone with shellfish allergies, consider a delicious alternative soup, like a traditional tomato basil, for everyone to enjoy.

Can I make this chowder ahead of time for a gathering?
Of course! You can prepare the chowder a day in advance. Simply let it cool and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove over low heat before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and taste even more amazing! Enjoy your Ina Garten Manhattan Clam Chowder!