Mo’s Clam Chowder Recipe Step-By-Step Guide
Mo's Clam Chowder Recipe is a creamy, comforting soup inspired by the classic chowder served at Mo’s Seafood Restaurant along the Oregon Coast. This easy homemade clam chowder uses tender clams, soft potatoes, bacon, milk, and simple pantry ingredients to create a rich, balanced flavor without complicated steps. Cooked gently on the stovetop, this soup is perfect for cozy meals, family dinners, or anytime you want a warm, satisfying bowl of traditional clam chowder made in a real home kitchen.
- Prep time
- 15 min
- Cook time
- 35 min
- Yield
- 6 servings
- Difficulty
- MEDIUM
Ingredients
Quantities are shown as originally provided.
- 6 slices bacon, chopped small
- ½ cup smoked ham, finely diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cans (6.5 oz each) minced clams, drained (reserve liquid)
- 1 bottle clam juice (8 oz)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1
Set a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook slowly until the fat releases and the edges turn lightly crisp. Stir now and then so nothing sticks.
- 2
Mix in the smoked ham and chopped onion. Cook until the onion softens and looks glossy. This stage fills the kitchen with that familiar chowder smell I always love.
- 3
Add butter and let it melt fully. Sprinkle flour evenly across the pot. Stir well and cook for two minutes. This keeps the soup smooth later.
- 4
Pour in the reserved clam liquid, bottled clam juice, and water. Stir slowly to avoid lumps. The liquid should turn creamy and even.
- 5
Add potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Cook until potatoes turn soft when pressed with a spoon, about 15 minutes.
- 6
Lower the heat. Stir in minced clams and milk. Let the chowder warm for five minutes. Keep the heat low to protect the clams.
- 7
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning. Ladle into a warm bowl and serve right away.