Baked Clams On Half Shell
Baked clams on half shells feature tender, flavorful minced clams topped with seasoned bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, baked to perfection—ideal for seafood lovers and elegant appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium nonstick skillet, brown garlic, onion, parsley, and oregano in olive oil.
- Add bread crumbs and continue to brown and stir.
- Add minced clams and toss to heat through.
- Pour in clam juice and toss just to heat.
- Spoon the mixture into bakeable half shells.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the clam mixture. If you want a spicier kick, try incorporating red pepper flakes. For a gluten-free option, substitute bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers. Keep an eye on the clams while baking to prevent them from overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
These baked clams make a great appetizer or party dish. Serve them with lemon wedges and a refreshing salad on the side, such as a simple arugula salad, to balance the richness. They also pair beautifully with Honey-Mustard Chicken And Eggplant for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked clams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the clams rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Clams On Half Shell contains roughly 141 calories, with 9g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, fresh clams can be used! Steam them open and chop the meat before following the recipe. Just ensure to reserve some clam juice for the mixture, as it adds flavor.
How can I make this dish more filling?
To make the baked clams more filling, consider serving them over a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside crusty bread for dipping. This adds a hearty element to the dish.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the clam mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just fill the shells and bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).