Classic Clams Casino: A Delectable Appetizer from Love With Recipes
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the exquisite flavors of Classic Clams Casino, a dish that effortlessly marries the briny essence of littleneck clams with the savory notes of bacon and buttery goodness. This delightful appetizer is perfect for gatherings, offering a sophisticated yet approachable dish that will impress your guests. With a cooking time of just 15 minutes and a prep time of 20 minutes, you can enjoy this dish in under an hour, making it a quick and satisfying option for any occasion.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | Approximately 6 servings |
| Keywords | clams, seafood, appetizer, easy |
Ingredients
To recreate this mouthwatering Classic Clams Casino, gather the following ingredients, each selected to enhance the overall flavor profile of this elegant dish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bacon | 6 slices |
| Unsalted Butter | ΒΌ cup |
| Shallots | 2, finely chopped |
| Garlic Cloves | 2, minced |
| Flat Leaf Parsley | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | ΒΌ cup |
| Kosher Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Cayenne Pepper | ΒΌ teaspoon |
| Littleneck Clams | 36, cleaned |
| Breadcrumbs | Β½ cup |
Nutritional Information
Enjoy the rich flavors of Classic Clams Casino while being mindful of your nutritional intake. Below is the nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 276.1 |
| Total Fat | 19.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 65.3 mg |
| Sodium | 377.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 9.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugars | 0.6 g |
| Protein | 15.2 g |
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare and serve your Classic Clams Casino, ensuring each clamshell is filled with flavorful goodness and topped to perfection.
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Cook the Bacon: Begin by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches a delightful crispness. This process will infuse your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and provide a rich, savory base for your dish.
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Prepare the Bacon: Once cooked, carefully drain the excess fat from the skillet. Allow the bacon to cool slightly before roughly chopping it into small pieces, and set it aside for later use.
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Make the Butter Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with the finely chopped shallots, minced garlic, chopped flat leaf parsley, fresh lemon juice, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, creating a seasoned butter that will elevate the clams’ flavor.
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Prepare the Clams: Arrange the cleaned littleneck clams in your largest skillet, ensuring they are placed in a single layer for even cooking. If necessary, feel free to steam the clams in batches to accommodate all of them.
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Steam the Clams: Pour in approximately a cup of water, then cover the skillet with a lid. Bring the water to a boil, allowing the clams to steam until their shells begin to open, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remember to monitor closely, as the clams will finish cooking under the broiler, and overcooking them at this stage can lead to tough clams.
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Prepare for Broiling: Once the clams are cool enough to handle, twist off the top shells and discard them. Using a sharp knife, gently slide it under each clam to loosen them from the bottom shells, making them easier to eat once cooked.
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Line the Baking Sheet: Take a large piece of aluminum foil and crumple it to create a textured surface. This will help hold the clams upright, preventing them from tipping over while baking. Line your baking sheets or broiler pans with this foil.
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Assemble the Clams: For each clam, spread about ΒΌ teaspoon of the seasoned butter mixture onto the clam meat. Then, generously sprinkle each clam with chopped bacon followed by Β½ teaspoon of breadcrumbs, creating a delicious topping that will crisp up beautifully under the broiler.
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Arrange for Broiling: Place the prepared clams on the lined baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even cooking. At this stage, the clams can be covered and refrigerated for up to 4 hours if you’re preparing them in advance, making this dish a convenient option for entertaining.
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Broil the Clams: When youβre ready to serve, preheat your broiler. Broil the clams until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and toasty, and the butter is melted and sizzling, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
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Serve Warm: Once broiled to perfection, remove the clams from the oven and serve them warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. These Classic Clams Casino are best enjoyed fresh, allowing the rich flavors to shine through each bite.
Indulging in Classic Clams Casino is not just about savoring a delicious appetizer; itβs about creating a memorable experience that brings friends and family together around the table. This recipe from Love With Recipes invites you to share in the joy of good food, making every gathering special. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and the delightful satisfaction that comes from crafting this culinary treasure!
