Minced Clam Casserole
A savory casserole combining tender minced clams with crispy bacon, aromatic onions, and green peppers, all topped with crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy finish. Perfect as an appetizer or light main dish, it offers rich flavors with a hint of spice from Tabasco. Suitable for seafood lovers and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine minced clams, chopped onions, chopped green peppers, cooked bacon, chopped pimentos, and Tabasco sauce in a mixing bowl.
- Mix in the melted butter and crushed Ritz crackers, reserving some crackers for topping if desired.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle remaining crushed crackers on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- If the casserole appears too moist, add more crushed crackers on top and bake a few additional minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon for the cooked bacon. You can also enhance the texture by using crushed saltines instead of Ritz crackers. Experiment with adding a handful of shredded cheese for extra creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful juices. For a delightful twist, consider offering it with a side of Hill Billy Black-Eyed Peas to enhance the Southern comfort theme.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clam casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions but be careful not to overheat, which can make the clams rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Minced Clam Casserole contains roughly 248 calories, with 6g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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. Just make sure to steam them open and chop them finely before adding to the casserole. You might need to adjust the cooking time as fresh clams may require less time to cook through.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. To do so, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This minced clam casserole goes well with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice. For a heartier meal, serve it with mashed potatoes or alongside American recipes like Barbecued Baked Beans.
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).