Baked Stuffed Quahogs
Baked stuffed quahogs offer a savory blend of chopped clams, onions, and aromatic spices, topped with crunchy bread crumbs and melted butter. This classic dish, perfect for seafood lovers and festive gatherings, delivers rich, flavorful bites with a crispy finish. Ideal as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute the chopped onions until translucent.
- Add the chopped quahogs and a little of the reserved liquor. Cook for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the bread crumbs. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more of the reserved liquor.
- Fill greased clam shells with the clam mixture.
- Blend the melted butter with 1/2 cup of bread crumbs and sprinkle on top of each filled shell.
- Garnish with paprika.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 15 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh quahogs and ensure they are well-drained. If you want a bit more texture, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or celery to the mixture. You can substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free options if necessary. For an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce can be mixed in before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked stuffed quahogs as an appetizer alongside a fresh salad or paired with crusty bread for a delightful meal. They also pair beautifully with Nana Falcone'S Carrot Muffins for a unique twist. A chilled glass of white wine complements the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed quahogs in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it may make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Stuffed Quahogs contains roughly 161 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg 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 frozen quahogs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen quahogs, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping. Frozen quahogs may release more liquid, so adjust the reserved liquor accordingly to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, fill the clam shells and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free cooking experience when entertaining guests.
What can I substitute for bread crumbs?
If you need a substitute, crushed crackers or panko bread crumbs can work well. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs. Both alternatives will provide a nice texture to the stuffing.
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).