Clams Casino is a beloved seafood appetizer that originated in the early 20th century, combining the briny goodness of clams with smoky bacon, crispy breadcrumbs, and flavorful herbs. These Clam Casino Bites take the classic recipe and turn it into a bite-sized, party-perfect dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Savory and Crispy – The perfect balance of texture and flavor.
• Great for Entertaining – A crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – A few fresh ingredients make this dish shine.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 12 fresh littleneck clams, scrubbed and shucked
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ¼ cup bell pepper, finely diced (red or green)
• ¼ cup shallots, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Clams

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the clams under cold water, then carefully shuck them, keeping the meat in the bottom shell.
3. Place the clam shells on a baking sheet lined with rock salt or foil to keep them stable.

Step 2: Make the Topping

1. In a small skillet over medium heat, sauté the bell pepper and shallots in 1 tablespoon of butter until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, cooked bacon, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and crushed red pepper.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Spoon the mixture evenly over each clam.
2. Drizzle with melted butter for extra crispiness.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
2. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a bright citrus finish.

Tips for the Best Clam Casino Bites

• Use Fresh Clams – The fresher the clams, the better the flavor.
• Shuck with Care – Use a sturdy knife and take your time to keep the shell intact.
• Customize the Toppings – Add chopped tomatoes, a splash of white wine, or extra cheese for variation.
• Broil for Extra Crisp – If you like a crispier topping, broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.

These Clam Casino Bites are an elegant and flavorful way to serve up a seafood classic. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something delicious, these bite-sized beauties will steal the show. Give them a try and enjoy the perfect combination of smoky, briny, and crispy goodness!