Clam Casino
Clam Casino is a classic appetizer that combines fresh clams with a savory topping of bacon, breadcrumbs, and herbs. Baked to perfection, these clams are bursting with flavors that complement the briny sweetness of the clams themselves.
Clam Casino is perfect for entertaining guests or as a special treat for seafood lovers. Follow this recipe to create a delicious batch of Clam Casino that will delight your taste buds and leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 24 littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Clam Casino
Prepare the Clams:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub the clams under cold running water to remove any dirt or sand. Place them in a large pot and add enough water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat. Cook for 5 minutes or until the clams open. Discard any clams that do not open.
Remove the clams from the shells and chop them coarsely. Rinse the shells and set them aside.
Prepare the Topping:
In a skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Make the Filling:
In the same skillet with bacon fat, add breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crisp.
Add minced garlic, chopped bell peppers, and cook for 2-3 minutes until peppers are softened.
Combine Ingredients:
Remove skillet from heat. Stir in chopped clams, cooked bacon, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, melted butter, and white wine. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
Fill the Clam Shells:
Spoon the clam mixture into the reserved clam shells, packing it lightly and mounding it slightly on top.
Bake the Clam Casino:
Arrange filled clam shells on a baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling.
Serve:
Remove Clam Casino from the oven. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Chef’s Note
Ensure the clams are fully cooked before chopping and using them in the filling. Adjust the amount of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese according to your preference for texture and flavor. For a twist, you can add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of paprika to the filling mixture for extra depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 6 clams)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
Enjoy Clam Casino as a delightful appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings or as a special treat for yourself. The combination of savory bacon, crunchy breadcrumbs, and tender clams makes this dish a favorite among seafood enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys delicious and flavorful appetizers.
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