Hot Clam Appetizer
A savory hot clam appetizer featuring minced clams, green pepper, onion, and melted cheese, perfect for seafood lovers and entertaining guests with rich, flavorful tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute minced clams with juice, green pepper, onion, and minced garlic in butter.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, bread crumbs, and paprika; stir well.
- If the mixture seems dry, add a little water to moisten.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese and paprika over the top.
- Place Provolone slices on top of the cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing the vegetables. If you're short on clams, canned clams work as a substitute, but be sure to drain them well. For a lighter version, you can use less butter or substitute with olive oil. Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for varied taste. This dish can also be served in phyllo pastry cups for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot clam appetizer with toasted baguette slices or crackers for a delightful crunch. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or can be served alongside a warm bowl of clam chowder for a heartier meal. For a complete spread, consider including sides like Favorite Green Bean Casserole or a cheese platter to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover hot clam appetizer can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the cheese remains melted and bubbly. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the dish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Clam Appetizer contains roughly 184 calories, with 5g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% 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 freeze the hot clam appetizer?
It is not recommended to freeze the dish once baked, as the texture of the clams and cheese may change. However, you can freeze the clam mixture before baking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake as directed.
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).