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Waco Clam Chowder

Waco Clam Chowder

Public
American • Dinner • None

A hilarious and surprisingly delicious take on clam chowder from landlocked Waco, Texas. This vintage, hearty soup relies on pantry-staple clams beefed up with plenty of smoky bacon, sweet corn, and a touch of Texas heat from green chilies.

4-6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon(chopped)
  • 1 stick unsalted butter((113g))
  • 1 medium yellow onion(diced)
  • 1 can canned diced green chilies((4 oz), undrained)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour((30g))
  • 2 cans canned minced clams((6.5 oz each), juices separated from clams)
  • 2 cups russet potatoes(peeled and diced)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup frozen sweet corn(thawed)
  • to taste salt and black pepper

Instructions

~40 min
  1. 1

    In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped thick-cut bacon over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until crispy.

    5-7 minutes

  2. 2

    Leave the bacon grease in the pot. Add the unsalted butter, diced yellow onion, and canned diced green chilies. Sauté for 5 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent.

    5 minutes

  3. 3

    Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetable and bacon mixture. Stir continuously and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

    1 minute

  4. 4

    Gradually whisk in the reserved clam juice from the canned minced clams and the whole milk. Add the diced russet potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

    15-20 minutes

  5. 5

    Stir in the reserved minced clams, thawed frozen sweet corn, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to heat everything through and let the flavors meld.

    5 minutes

  6. 6

    Remove from heat and let the chowder rest for 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

    5 minutes