A thick and creamy chowder with bacon, corn, potatoes, celery and minced clams. Make it fast in your electric pressure cooker!

My Go-To Instant Pot Clam Chowder: A Busy Mom's Recipe

Life as a mom is a whirlwind of activity. Between school runs, work deadlines, and keeping the house afloat, finding time for anything beyond the bare minimum often feels impossible. Dinner, in particular, can be a constant source of stress. That's why I've become a huge fan of my Instant Pot – it's my secret weapon for creating delicious, healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This Instant Pot Clam Chowder recipe is a perfect example; it's ready in under 30 minutes, and it tastes like I spent all day perfecting it.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques or obscure ingredients are needed. I use readily available pantry staples and fresh produce to create a rich and flavorful chowder that my family devours. The bacon adds a smoky depth, the potatoes provide heartiness, and the clams bring a briny freshness. Everything cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot, resulting in tender potatoes and a luxuriously creamy broth. It's the ultimate comfort food, elevated to a restaurant-worthy dish with minimal effort.

Why this recipe is a lifesaver:

• Speed: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Ease: Minimal chopping and prep work required. The Instant Pot does most of the work!
• Flavor: Rich, creamy, and satisfying, this chowder hits all the right notes.
• Healthier twist: Compared to traditional chowder recipes, this version avoids excessive cream and butter, maintaining a balance of taste and health.
• Versatility: Easily adaptable to your preferences. Add different vegetables, spices, or even seafood for a unique twist.

Beyond the recipe:

This clam chowder is more than just a meal; it's a symbol of efficiency and deliciousness in a hectic life. The ability to create something so satisfying and comforting in a short amount of time is incredibly liberating. It takes away the pressure of having to spend hours in the kitchen, allowing me to focus on what truly matters – my family. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a restaurant-quality meal made with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s a true testament to the magic of the Instant Pot and the importance of finding shortcuts that don't compromise on taste. And trust me, your family will thank you for it.

Serving suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a side of grilled cheese sandwiches for a family-friendly feast.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, a true comfort food that's quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too!

Step-by-step

• Turn your Instant Pot to the saute setting.
• When the display says HOT add in the oil and swirl it around.
• Add in the onion and saute for about 3-4 minutes, until onions soften.
• Add in the water, potatoes, clams with the juice, corn, bacon and celery.
• Cover and secure the lid. Make sure valve is set to sealing.
• Set the manual/pressure cook button to 4 minutes.
• Once time is up let the pot sit there for 5 minutes (the display will read L0:05).
• Then move the valve to venting.
• Remove the lid.
• Warm up the milk and half and half in the microwave or on the stove. It should be warm.
• Stir in the melted butter.
• Then very slowly whisk in the flour a tablespoon at a time. It should be lump free.
• Then stir this mixture into the Instant Pot.
• Turn the Instant Pot to the saute setting.
• The milk/flour mixture will thicken the chowder in a few minutes. Stir constantly (for about 3 minutes) so that the bottom doesn't burn.
• Taste the chowder and then add salt and pepper as needed.
• Ladle into bowls and enjoy!