Clams Casino is a classic seafood appetizer that originated in the early 1900s. It features fresh clams on the half shell topped with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, bell pepper, garlic, herbs, and crisp bacon—then broiled until golden. It’s elegant yet simple, and perfect for dinner parties or seafood feasts.
⏱️ Prep Time
Task
Time
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
10–12 minutes
Total Time
30–35 minutes
🧰 Equipment
Oyster or clam knife
Baking sheet
Broiler or oven
Small skillet
Mixing bowl
Spoon
Kitchen towel (for opening clams safely)
🧂 Ingredients(Makes 12 Clams)
12 littleneck clams, scrubbed clean
2 slices bacon, chopped
2 tbsp finely chopped shallot or onion
2 tbsp finely chopped red bell pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt & pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
📌 Ingredient Notes
Clams: Littlenecks are best—they’re small, sweet, and ideal for this dish.
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a crunchier texture; traditional breadcrumbs yield a more classic bite.
Bacon: Smoked bacon adds depth; pancetta works for an Italian twist.
Cheese: Parmesan is optional but adds a savory edge.
🍳 Instructions
Preheat Broiler:
Set oven to broil and place the oven rack in the top third.
Open Clams:
Carefully open clams with a clam knife over a bowl to catch any juices.
Discard the top shell; leave the clam in the bottom shell and arrange on a baking sheet.
Strain and reserve any clam juice for moistening the stuffing.
Cook Bacon Mixture:
In a skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until just crisp.
Add shallots, red pepper, and garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes until softened.
Remove from heat and stir in breadcrumbs, parsley, Parmesan (if using), olive oil/butter, and lemon juice.
Add a splash of reserved clam juice for moisture if needed.
Top the Clams:
Spoon about 1–2 teaspoons of the mixture onto each clam.
Press gently so it stays on top.
Broil:
Broil clams for 5–7 minutes until the topping is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
Serve hot with lemon wedges.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts(Per 2 clams)
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
~130 kcal
Protein
8g
Fat
9g
Carbs
4g
Sodium
300mg
Sugar
<1g
💡 Tips
Buy live clams: They should be tightly closed or close when tapped.
Open safely: Use a towel to grip the clam and protect your hand while shucking.
No broiler? Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 10–12 minutes instead.
🔄 Variations
Spicy Clams Casino: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Herbed Version: Add fresh thyme or oregano to the breadcrumb mix.
No Pork: Swap bacon with turkey bacon or a mix of sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Make-Ahead: Prep the topping and shuck the clams in advance, then assemble and broil just before serving.
