Clam Dish Casserole("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.")
A creamy, savory clam casserole featuring minced clams, crispy Ritz crackers, and mushroom soup, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the eggs in a bowl.
- Add the minced clams, mushroom soup, and crushed Ritz crackers to the eggs and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some onions or garlic before mixing them into the casserole. If you prefer a crunchier topping, you can sprinkle some additional crushed Ritz crackers on top before baking. Additionally, feel free to substitute the minced clams with canned tuna or salmon for a different take on this dish. This casserole is a comforting option, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This clam dish casserole can be served as a main course or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a complete dinner, serve it alongside crusty bread or over a bed of rice. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, echoing the nostalgia of dishes like Chopped Meat And Corn Bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clam Dish Casserole("A Favorite From The '76 Cookbook.") contains roughly 1374 calories, with 24g protein, 254g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (70% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1189mg per serving (52% 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, you can use fresh clams if you prefer, but you will need to cook and chop them beforehand. Make sure to use about 1.5 cups of cooked clams to match the flavor and texture of the canned variety. Adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure everything is heated through.
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you don't have mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or cream of chicken soup. Alternatively, a can of cream of celery soup works well and adds a nice flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning based on your choice.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).