Clams Casino

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Clams Casino is a classic American appetizer that originated in Rhode Island in the early 20th century. This dish highlights the natural sweetness of fresh clams, topped with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, bacon, herbs, and peppers. Baked until golden and fragrant, Clams Casino is elegant enough for dinner parties yet simple enough to enjoy at home as a treat. With its combination of smoky bacon, garlicky butter, and tender clams, this recipe is a celebration of coastal flavors that never goes out of style.

Ingredients:

  • 12 fresh littleneck clams, scrubbed

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped

  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ¼ cup dry white wine

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.

  2. Steam the clams: In a saucepan, add clams with ½ cup water. Cover and steam over medium heat until clams just open (5–7 minutes). Remove clams as they open. Discard any that don’t open. Let cool slightly, then remove the top shells and place clams on the prepared baking sheet.

  3. Cook bacon: In a skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.

  4. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add shallot, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened (3–4 minutes). Deglaze with white wine and let it reduce for 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat.

  5. Make topping: Stir in breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, lemon zest, and bacon. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

  6. Assemble: Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each clam.

  7. Bake: Place in the oven and bake until topping is golden brown and crisp (10–12 minutes).

  8. Serve: Transfer to a platter and serve hot with lemon wedges.

Would you like me to also give you a quick stovetop version of Clams Casino (without baking), or do you prefer the traditional baked version?

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