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Baked Clams Casino with Crispy Bacon

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Baked Clams Casino with Crispy Bacon is a classic seafood appetizer where fresh clams are topped with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, bell peppers, and smoky bacon, then baked until golden and bubbling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 littleneck clams, scrubbed
  • 4 slices bacon, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped shallot
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place clams in a large skillet with a bit of water and steam over medium heat until they open, about 5–7 minutes. Discard any that don’t open.
  2. Remove the top shell of each clam and loosen the meat from the bottom shell. Arrange clams on a baking sheet.
  3. In a skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté bell pepper, shallot, and garlic in the bacon drippings until softened, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, cooked vegetables, bacon, melted butter, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Spoon the mixture evenly over each clam.
  7. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
  8. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Use fresh, live clams and scrub them well before cooking.
  • You can prepare the topping ahead of time and assemble just before baking.
  • Serve with a chilled white wine or sparkling beverage.

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