Clams Casino

How to Make Clams Casino

Tap a step to highlight it, or turn on Cook Mode for large type and step-by-step focus.

1. Discard any clams with broken shells or that do not close when tapped. Put the wine in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, add the clams, cover and steam over high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the pot now and then, until the clams have opened. Discard any that stay closed.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

2. Cool the clams for 5 minutes, then twist off and discard the empty top shells. Loosen each clam in its bottom shell with a small knife, keeping the juices.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

3. Cook the bacon in a frying pan over medium heat for 4 minutes, until it has started to crisp. Add the butter, onion, red pepper and garlic and cook for 4 minutes, until soft.

   Mark done Start 4 min timer

4. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice and cayenne.

   Mark done

5. Heat the grill to high. Spread a layer of coarse salt on a baking tray and set the clams in their shells on top so they sit level.

   Mark done

6. Spoon a heaped teaspoon of the topping over each clam. Grill for 3 to 4 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Serve at once with lemon wedges.

   Mark done Start 3 min timer

Tips for Making Clams Casino

• Buy the smallest tender clams you can find, and do not overcook them. They are cooked twice, once in the steam and once under the grill, so keep both short.
• Set the clams on a bed of coarse salt. It holds the shells level, so the topping and juices stay in place.
• Chop the bacon and vegetables finely. Large pieces do not stay on the clams and will not cook through in the few minutes under the grill.

Common Substitutions & Variations

• An eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder per clove is the usual stand-in when you are out of fresh garlic — it will not caramelise the same way, but it carries the flavour.
• A dry vermouth keeps for longer than an open bottle of white wine and is the closer swap than a random white left in the fridge; for an alcohol-free version, use the same amount of stock with a squeeze of lemon.

What to Serve with Clams Casino

• Crisp white wine
• Lemon wedges
• Crusty bread

Storing & Reheating Clams Casino

Best eaten straight from the grill. The topped, ungrilled clams can be covered and chilled for up to 4 hours before grilling.

Clams Casino FAQ: Common Questions

Clams Casino Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.