Making this dish is my way to my husband's heart; he absolutely loves it.

Clam chowder holds a special place in my heart, especially on those chilly Midwest evenings when all you crave is a warm, comforting bowl of something delicious. Growing up, I always thought chowder was this mysterious recipe that only restaurants could master. But let me tell you, it's simpler than you'd think! This creamy, chunky, and hearty clam chowder is perfect for anyone who's looking to bring a taste of the coast right into their home kitchen. It's like a cozy hug in a bowl and a fabulous way to unwind after a busy workday. Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Clam chowder pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or oyster crackers, perfect for soaking up every bit of that delightful creaminess. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the richness of the chowder. And if you want to really indulge, try serving with a side of roasted garlic mashed potatoes—trust me, it's a match made in heaven!

Servings: 4 servings

4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cans (6.5 ounces each) chopped clams, with juice
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.

2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the potatoes, chopped clams with their juice, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

4. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for a minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, and cook until slightly thickened.

5. Remove the bay leaf from the chowder pot. Stir in the cream mixture until the chowder is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

For a healthier version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative. If you want to add more veggies, corn or celery are great additions that blend well with the chowder's flavors. For those who love a little heat, a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give your chowder a nice kick. Finally, if fresh clams are available, use them for an even more authentic taste, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!