Ken'S Quahaugs Casino
Ken's Quahaugs Casino features tender quahaugs topped with a flavorful mixture of bread crumbs, lemon juice, wine, and bacon, then baked to perfection. This savory appetizer combines briny seafood with smoky bacon and zesty seasonings, making it ideal for parties, seafood lovers, and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Open each quahaug and split in half.
- Loosen the meat completely from the shell, cutting through the muscle.
- Saute chopped onion in butter until yellow.
- Remove from heat and add bread crumbs, lemon juice, white wine, and parsley. Mix well.
- Cool slightly, then firmly pat about a tablespoon of the mixture onto each quahaug half in the shell.
- Sprinkle red pepper on top of each.
- Place a quarter slice of raw bacon on each topped quahaug.
- Arrange in a large shallow pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh quahaugs and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned before preparation. If you don't have flavored bread crumbs, you can substitute with plain bread crumbs mixed with Italian seasoning. Adjust the amount of red pepper based on your heat preference. You can also try adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ken's Quahaugs Casino as an appetizer at your next gathering, pairing them with a crisp green salad or crusty bread. They also complement well with a glass of white wine. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside Bill Webber's Baked Beans or Sausage Cheese Bread for a delicious spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover quahaugs Casino 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 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the quahaugs rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ken'S Quahaugs Casino contains roughly 47 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 other types of shellfish instead of quahaugs?
Yes, you can substitute quahaugs with clams or mussels. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different shellfish may vary in cooking duration. Ensure they are fresh and properly cleaned before use.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the quahaugs and the breadcrumb mixture a day in advance. Assemble everything and store in the refrigerator, covered. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
While the original recipe is seafood-based, you can create a vegetarian version by using mushrooms or large slices of eggplant instead of quahaugs. Follow the same preparation and topping instructions for a unique twist.
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).