Scalloped Clams
Scalloped Clams is a comforting seafood dish featuring tender minced clams combined with aromatic onion and fresh parsley, topped with crunchy bread and cracker crumbs, then baked in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers and special occasions, it offers a savory, satisfying flavor with a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the chopped onion, minced clams, chopped parsley, salt, and Tabasco sauce in a bowl.
- Mix the bread crumbs with melted butter until well coated.
- Set aside one-third of the crumb mixture for topping.
- Combine the remaining crumb mixture with the clam mixture.
- Pour the clam and crumb mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Top with the reserved crumb mixture and pour heavy cream over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or dill in addition to parsley. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the bread and cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can also use fresh clams if available, just ensure they are cleaned and steamed before adding. This dish is a great way to showcase the clams' natural flavor while keeping it simple and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve scalloped clams as a main dish alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal. They pair beautifully with crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables. You might also consider serving them with a glass of white wine, which complements the flavors well. For a complete seafood experience, browse more American recipes that feature clams.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the scalloped clams in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using a microwave to preserve texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Clams contains roughly 731 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2737mg per serving (119% 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 canned clams instead of fresh?
Yes, canned clams work well in this recipe. Just ensure to drain them properly and adjust the salt as needed, since canned clams can be saltier. This makes preparation quicker while still providing a delicious outcome.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or include finely chopped jalapeños in the mixture. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the scalloped clams a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to add the cream right before you bake it to keep the dish fresh and creamy.
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).