This old school classic is still everyone’s favorite appetizer for a reason. CLAMS CASINO delivers big flavor in one bite size package – savory clams, crispy bacon and breadcrumbs with a splash of wine, cheese & spice. They’re a perfect tiny treat. And since our local littlenecks are available year round, you can make many and eat often – especially during the holidays. 

Clams Casino Recipe 

Serves 4 – 6
CLAMS CASINO RECIPE CARD 

Ingredients: 
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 ounces sliced pancetta or bacon, finely chopped
1 cup finely diced red bell pepper
1/3 cup chopped shallots
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/3 cup dry white wine
4 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
18 medium (2 1/2-inch) littleneck clams, shucked, bottom shells reserved, reserve juice
¼ cup breadcrumbs

 Preparation: 
Heat the oil in a heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon or pancetta and sauté until crisp and golden, for about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon or pancetta to a plate.

Add the bell pepper, shallots, garlic, and oregano to the same skillet and sauté until the shallots are tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the wine and simmer until it is almost evaporated, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and cool completely.

Stir the reserved bacon or pancetta bits and 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese into the vegetable mixture, add reserved clam juice and breadcrumbs. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Line a heavy large baking sheet with foil. Arrange the clams in the reserved shells on the baking sheet. Spoon the bacon/vegetable mixture atop the clams, dividing equally and mounding slightly. Sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan. Bake until the clams are just cooked through and the topping is golden, about 10 minutes. You can also finish the clams off under the broiler until just golden brown.

Local Ingredient Source: 
Littleneck Clams – available by the at your local Mac’s Seafood Market and to ship from Mac’s Online Shop

 Recipe Courtesy of Mac’s Seafood. All rights reserved.