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Keto Clam Chowder

Keto Clam Chowder

Linda M. Harris
This Keto Clam Chowder is a rich, creamy, and flavorful low-carb alternative to the classic New England clam chowder.
By replacing high-carb ingredients like potatoes with cauliflower and using xanthan gum as a thickener, this soup stays keto-friendly while maintaining its delicious, comforting texture.
Loaded with tender clams, smoky bacon, and a velvety broth, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal that won’t kick you out of ketosis.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, Keto, Low-Carb
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Chef’s Knife
  • 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 measuring cup set
  • 1 measuring spoon set
  • 1 Ladle

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 oz ½ cup Bacon, diced
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • ½ cup Shallots or Onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 small head 2 cups Cauliflower, chopped into small pieces
  • 2 cups Chicken or Seafood Broth
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • ½ cup Unsweetened Almond Milk or Coconut Milk
  • 1 can 10 oz Clams, drained (or 1 lb fresh clams, steamed and shelled)

Seasonings & Flavor Enhancers

  • ½ tsp Salt or to taste
  • ¼ tsp Black Pepper
  • ½ tsp Thyme dried
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • ¼ tsp Xanthan Gum for thickening, optional

Garnish (Optional but Recommended)

  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley or Chives chopped
  • 1 tbsp Crumbled Bacon reserved from cooking

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 5 minutes).
  • Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside for garnish.
    Leave 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Add butter and olive oil to the pot.
  • Sauté shallots and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

  • Add chopped cauliflower and chicken or seafood broth.
    Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  • Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

  • Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream and almond milk. Stir gently.
  • Sprinkle xanthan gum into the soup while stirring to help thicken the broth.

Step 5: Add Clams & Final Touches

  • Stir in the clams and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
  • Add the reserved crispy bacon back into the pot, saving a bit for garnish.
  • Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and a bay leaf.
    Let the flavors meld for another 2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Remove the bay leaf and ladle the chowder into bowls.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or chives and extra bacon.
  • Serve hot and enjoy with keto-friendly bread or crackers!

Notes

✅ Make It Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and butter for ghee or more olive oil.
✅ For a Thicker Chowder: Add an extra pinch of xanthan gum or blend half the cauliflower before adding clams.
✅ Storage & Reheating:
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop to prevent separation.
✅ Can You Freeze It?
  • Not recommended due to the dairy content, which can separate when thawed.
Keyword Keto Clam Chowder