Copycat Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Recipe

Red Lobster Clam Chowder

Here, we’re sharing a copycat recipe for the famous New England Clam Chowder from Red Lobster. We’ll show you all the ingredients and how to make it step-by-step. Now, you can enjoy this Red Lobster favorite right at home.

This chowder brings the flavors of the Northeast straight to your kitchen. It’s an easy way to make restaurant-quality New England Clam Chowder.

Key Takeaways

  • Recreate the signature New England Clam Chowder from Red Lobster in your own kitchen.
  • Follow our step-by-step instructions to achieve the creamy, hearty, and flavorful chowder.
  • Enjoy the comforting taste of the Northeast coast with this easy-to-follow, restaurant-inspired recipe.
  • Impress your friends and family with your homemade version of the iconic Red Lobster dish.
  • Customize the chowder to your taste by adjusting the seasoning and toppings.
Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Recipe Copycat

Introduction to New England Clam Chowder

New England Clam Chowder is a cherished dish famous in the Northeast. It’s a creamy soup filled with clams, loved for its taste that feels like a warm hug. It brings you to the coastal towns with every spoonful.

What Makes This Chowder Special?

The secret behind New England Clam Chowder’s great taste is a mix of fresh clams, creamy dairy, and veggies. This blend gives the soup its rich taste and comforting feel. It’s a must-eat for anyone who loves clam chowder and restaurant-style soup.

A Taste of New England Coastal Cuisine

Enjoying a bowl of this chowder is like a quick visit to the Northeast’s pretty shores. The creamy chowder with clams’ briny flavor makes it a special comfort food. Locals and tourists both love it for its New England cuisine feel.

Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Recipe Bowl

Ingredients for Red Lobster’s Creamy Clam Chowder 

To make the iconic Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder at home, get these ingredients. The base is either fresh clams or canned clam juice, giving the chowder its seafood taste and New England charm.

Fresh Clams or Canned Clam Juice

Choose either fresh clams for a big sea flavor or canned clam juice for ease. Both are great for this recipe. Pick what fits best for you.

Red Lobster Clam Chowder Copycat Recipe

Essential Vegetables and Aromatics

Vegetables like celery, onions, and potatoes are important. They add great flavor and texture. Garlic, thyme, and bay leaves make the chowder deeper and tastier.

Dairy Ingredients for a Velvety Texture

To get that creamy, velvety texture, use heavy cream and butter. They make the chowder rich and thick, for a luxurious feel.

Ingredient List

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Fresh Clams or Canned Clam Juice1 pound fresh clams or 2 cups cannedProvides the essential seafood flavor and briny essence
Celery2 stalks, dicedAdds texture and balances the flavors
Onion1 medium, dicedContributes to the overall flavor profile
Potatoes2 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and dicedProvides body and substance to the chowder
Garlic2 cloves, mincedEnhances the overall aroma and taste
Thyme1 teaspoon, driedAdds depth and complexity to the flavors
Bay Leaves2 leavesContributes to the signature chowder flavor
Heavy Cream1 cupProvides the signature creamy and velvety texture
Butter2 tablespoonsAdds richness and helps to thicken the chowder
Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Recipe Ingredients

Red Lobster Clam Chowder Copycat Recipe

To make the famous Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder at home, follow this easy recipe. This creamy chowder brings the taste of the sea right to your table. It’s a perfect dish for lovers of seafood soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfection

Preparing the Clam Broth

  1. If using fresh clams, wash them well and place them in a large pot.
  2. Add water or chicken broth and heat until boiling.
  3. Lower the heat and let the clams cook until they open (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Strain the liquid through a sieve, saving the clams for later.

If using canned clams, pour their liquid into your pot directly.

Cooking the Vegetables and Potatoes

  1. In another pot, melt butter on medium-high heat.
  2. Add onions, celery, and garlic, and cook until soft and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Add potatoes and clam broth.
  4. Let it all simmer until the potatoes are soft when poked with a fork (around 15-20 minutes).

Thickening and Seasoning the Chowder

  1. In a small bowl, mix heavy cream and flour to make a roux.
  2. Slowly stir this mixture into your simmering chowder.
  3. Keep stirring until the soup thickens.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves.
  5. Let the chowder cook a bit more to blend the flavors.
red lobster clam chowder bowl

Serving Suggestions and Garnishes

Delicious Toppings for Clam Chowder

  1. Add crumbled bacon for a nice crunch.
  2. Chopped parsley or thyme for fresh flavor.
  3. A bit of sour cream or crème fraîche for extra creaminess.
  4. Smoked paprika or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  5. Oyster crackers for a traditional touch.

Pairing with Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Serve your chowder with Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Their cheesy flavor complements the chowder perfectly. Dunk them in the soup for an authentic East Coast experience.

Bowl of Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Recipe

Tips and Tricks for the Best Clam Chowder

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Use a roux or a little potato starch to thicken your chowder. This makes it smooth and rich without being too thick.

Adjusting Seasoning to Your Taste

Try the recommended spices first. Then, add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste. Make the flavor uniquely yours.

Taking My Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder To Go!

We’ve shown you how to make Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder at home. Our guide is easy to follow and filled with tips. With the right ingredients and steps, you’ll get to enjoy this tasty soup.

Love Red Lobster or New England clam chowder? Our copycat recipe is perfect for you. Make classic dishes at home with simple tricks. You’ll taste the restaurant’s favorite soups whenever you want.

Get your ingredients and follow our steps. Soon, you’ll have a chowder just like the restaurant’s. Serve with fresh bread or their famous biscuits. This makes for a great meal at home. Enjoy!

Red Lobster Copycat Recipe Summary

Red Lobster Clam Chowder Recipe

Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder

This creamy and savory New England Clam Chowder captures the essence of coastal dining. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for a comforting meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Soup
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Copycat Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder, Copycat Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Recipe, Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder, Red Lobster New England Clam Chowder Recipe
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Ladle
  • Chef’s Knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Strainer or Colander
  • Small Bowl (for reserved clam juice)
  • Serving Bowls
  • Peeler (for potatoes)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Russet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • ½ cup butter
  • 2 tablespoons diced green onions white part only
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cans 6.5 ounces each minced clams (reserve juice)
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 16 ounces half and half
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • ½ cup diced celery
  • ½ cup diced leeks
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

  • Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Boil until tender, drain, and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics: In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced green onions, garlic, onions, celery, and leeks. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
  • Create Roux: Add flour to the pot and stir briskly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  • Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the reserved clam juice, half and half, and whole milk. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to thicken.
  • Simmer: Add the potatoes, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Add Clams: Stir in the minced clams and heavy cream. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are very soft.
  • Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with oyster crackers or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked bacon or smoked paprika.
  • If you prefer a thicker chowder, blend a small portion and add it back into the pot.
  • Serve the chowder in a bread bowl for an extra hearty meal.
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