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Crispy Clams Casino with Bacon and Buttery Breadcrumbs

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This classic seafood appetizer features briny clams topped with smoky bacon, garlicky sautéed vegetables, and a crunchy, buttery panko breadcrumb topping. Quick to prepare and perfect for entertaining, these clams casino are a crowd-pleaser that brings the flavors of the seaside to your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 24 littleneck or cherrystone clams, scrubbed clean
  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced tiny
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Scrub clams under cold running water to remove grit. Discard any that don’t close when tapped. If using jarred clams, drain and pat dry.
  2. Using a kitchen towel and oyster knife, carefully shuck each clam over a bowl to catch juices. Place each clam on the half shell on a lined baking tray.
  3. In a small skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until just crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towel. Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat in the skillet.
  4. Add minced garlic, chopped shallot, and diced red bell pepper to the bacon fat. Sauté 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in 1 tablespoon parsley and red pepper flakes if using. Remove from heat.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
  6. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the aromatic veggie mixture onto each clam. Sprinkle with crisped bacon. Top with 1–2 teaspoons of buttery breadcrumbs, pressing lightly.
  7. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, until breadcrumbs are golden and clams are just cooked through. For extra-crispy tops, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Remove from oven, sprinkle with more parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Let cool 2–3 minutes before serving with lemon wedges.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, swap butter for vegan alternative. Don’t overcook clams to avoid rubbery texture. Bacon grease can be drizzled for extra flavor. Assemble ahead (without breadcrumbs) and chill; add breadcrumbs just before baking. Broil for extra crunch but watch closely to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: clams casino, seafood appetizer, bacon, buttery breadcrumbs, party food, easy recipe, oven baked clams, summer cookout, holiday appetizer

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/crispy-clams-casino-recipe-easy-bacon-and-buttery-breadcrumbs-guide/