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Clams Casino Bacon Bell: 1 Amazing Appetizer

Clams Casino Bacon Bell

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Enjoy this Clams Casino with Bacon and Bell Pepper recipe, a delightful appetizer featuring fresh clams topped with a savory mixture of crispy bacon, sweet bell peppers, garlic, and crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 fresh clams, cleaned and scrubbed
  • 6 slices bacon, crispy, crumbled
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or red wine)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Clean the clams thoroughly under cold water, scrubbing the shells to remove any grit. Place the cleaned clams in a baking dish, opening side up.
  3. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble the bacon into small pieces once cooled.
  4. Sauté the chopped red bell pepper and minced garlic in the leftover bacon drippings until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Mix the sautéed vegetables with crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, and a splash of vinegar in a bowl until well-coated.
  6. Spoon the mixture into each clam shell, piling it high. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, if using.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the clams are cooked through.
  8. Serve warm as a delightful appetizer, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze the unbaked filling for up to 1 month.
  • Discard any clams that remain open when tapped before cooking.
  • For an extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling.
  • Keep an eye on the clams while baking as the breadcrumb topping can brown quickly.
  • Serve immediately after baking for the best taste and texture.

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