Great South Bay Clam Pie
A hearty clam pie featuring tender chopped clams, smoky bacon, and creamy filling, all encased in a flaky crust—perfect for seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub and steam open the clams, then chop them.
- Partially fry the bacon, then cut it into pieces.
- Slice the onion and potatoes and cook them for about 10 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan.
- Add flour, milk, and clam juice to the melted butter and stir until thickened.
- Combine the chopped clams, bacon, onion, potatoes, and clam mixture in a baking dish.
- Prepare the pie crust, roll it out to a thick layer, and place it over the dish.
- Bake in a hot oven at 425°F until bubbly and the crust is slightly browned, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the clam mixture. If Cherrystone clams are unavailable, other types of clams like littlenecks can be used. You can also substitute the bacon with smoked turkey for a lighter option. Make sure to chop the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon or even pancetta works well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the clam pie with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of garlic bread can also complement the dish nicely. For a complete seafood experience, pair it with a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager. This dish is perfect for a casual gathering or a cozy family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy. For best results, cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great South Bay Clam Pie contains roughly 696 calories, with 14g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 523mg per serving (23% 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 clams for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen clams, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. It's best to rinse them under cold water to remove any grit. However, fresh clams will provide a superior flavor and texture, so use them if possible.
What can I do if I don't have clam juice?
If you don't have clam juice, you can substitute it with seafood stock or chicken broth for a similar flavor profile. Additionally, you can increase the amount of milk slightly to maintain the liquid consistency in the pie.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free clam pie, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Ensure the pie crust is also gluten-free, which can be found in many grocery stores or can be made from almond or coconut flour.
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).