Manhattan Clam Chowder – Clara quick dinners

Manhattan Clam Chowder is a bold and zesty tomato-based soup packed with tender clams, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Unlike its creamy New England cousin, this version is lighter yet equally satisfying—making it a great year-round favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chowder is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. It’s rich in vegetables, infused with savory clam juice, and finished with a slight heat from red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. It’s also a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors deepen even more after a day or two. Plus, it’s dairy-free by default, making it suitable for more diets.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bacon (optional)
• Onion, diced
• Celery, diced
• Carrot, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Clam juice
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Canned chopped clams, drained
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Oyster crackers or crusty bread, for serving

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some of the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Add onion, celery, and carrot to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
4. Add diced tomatoes, clam juice, and cubed potatoes. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
6. Stir in the chopped clams and the cooked bacon. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes to heat through.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and oyster crackers.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegetarian by omitting the clams and using vegetable broth, adding chickpeas for heartiness
• Add chopped bell peppers for extra color and flavor
• Use fresh clams if available—just steam and chop before adding
• Toss in chopped kale or spinach at the end for extra greens
• Swap bacon for pancetta or skip entirely for a leaner soup

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely and portion into freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

What makes Manhattan Clam Chowder different from New England Clam Chowder?

Manhattan Clam Chowder is tomato-based, while New England uses cream or milk for a rich, creamy texture.

Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?

Yes, steam fresh clams until they open, remove the meat, chop it, and use the broth in place of bottled clam juice.

Is this soup spicy?

It has a slight kick if you use red pepper flakes or hot sauce, but it’s easy to control the spice level.

Can I make this chowder in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the bacon and veggies first, then transfer all ingredients (except clams and parsley) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, adding clams in the last 30 minutes.

What kind of potatoes should I use?

Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best because they hold their shape well during cooking.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to check that your bacon, broth, and any added garnishes are gluten-free.

What should I serve with this chowder?

Crusty bread, oyster crackers, or a side salad pair nicely.

Can I freeze Manhattan Clam Chowder?

Absolutely. It freezes well, just avoid overcooking the potatoes beforehand so they don’t become too soft.

How do I thicken the chowder?

You can mash a few potatoes in the pot or stir in a spoonful of tomato paste for a thicker texture.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavor actually improves over time.

Conclusion

Manhattan Clam Chowder is a deliciously different take on the classic seafood soup. With its rich tomato base, hearty vegetables, and briny clam flavor, it’s both light and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend comfort meal, this chowder is a standout choice you’ll return to again and again.

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