Better Than Dad's Clam Casino

Elevate your appetizer game with "Better Than Dad's Clam Casino," a next-level take on the classic dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Featuring tender, fresh littleneck clams topped with a savory mix of crispy bacon, buttery breadcrumbs, and a medley of garlic, shallots, and red bell pepper, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and sophistication. A touch of lemon zest and juice brightens the flavors, while Parmesan cheese and a hint of paprika add richness and depth. These golden-baked clams with their crunchy topping make an irresistible seafood treat that's perfect for entertaining or a special family dinner. Quick to prepare and bursting with bold, zesty flavors, this crowd-pleaser is sure to steal the show.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 24 Fresh littleneck clams
• 6 slices Thick-cut bacon
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 cup Breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 medium Shallot, finely chopped
• 0.5 Red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons Flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
• 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Paprika

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2

Rinse the clams thoroughly under cold water. Discard any clams that are cracked, damaged, or do not close when tapped.

Step 3

Place the clams in a large pot and add 1/2 inch of water. Cover and steam over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any clams that do not open.

Step 4

Remove the clams from the pot and allow them to cool. Once cooled, gently pry open the shells, leaving the meat intact on one side. Set the clams on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then chop into small pieces.

Step 6

Discard most of the bacon fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the butter to the skillet, then sauté the garlic, shallot, and red bell pepper until softened, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7

Stir in the breadcrumbs, bacon pieces, chopped parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to create the topping.

Step 8

Spoon a small amount of the breadcrumb mixture onto each clam, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 9

Bake the clams in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crunchy.

Step 10

Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2244.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2766.3

Total Fat 105.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 38.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 844.0mg	0%
Sodium 5415.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 133.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.3g	0%
Total Sugars 7.7g
Protein 304.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1054.7mg	0%
Iron 341.8mg	0%
Potassium 4910.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.2%

Protein: 45.0%

Carbs: 19.8%