For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the bacon. If you don't have half-and-half, you can use whole milk or cream. Using cream will result in a richer, more decadent chowder. For a smoother chowder, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the half-and-half. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can make the soup gluey.
Wilfrid Mosciski
Jun 22, 2025This recipe is so easy to follow and the results are fantastic!
Shanna Klocko
Jun 21, 2025Great recipe, thanks for sharing!
Imogene Stehr
May 9, 2025The bacon adds a nice smoky flavor, but it's great without it too.
Cory Kutch
Apr 27, 2025Will definitely make this again!
Annabel Pacochanikolaus
Apr 19, 2025My family loved this! It's a new favorite.
Estefania Rau
Apr 1, 2025I used vegetable broth and it was still delicious.
Bailey Larkin
Mar 11, 2025I blended half the soup before adding the half-and-half, and it was the perfect consistency.
Lazaro Hansen
Jan 29, 2025I added a pinch of nutmeg, as suggested, and it was amazing!
Robbie Weimann
Dec 4, 2024This chowder is so creamy and comforting! The leeks add such a delicate flavor.