Stuffed Clams are a classic seafood appetizer made with tender littleneck clams and a savory breadcrumb topping. This version leans into the familiar flavors of Clams Casino, using pancetta in place of bacon for a slightly richer bite.
I've always loved how stuffed clams feel special without being fussy, and this recipe fits right in for holidays, dinner parties, or a quiet weekend at home when seafood sounds good.
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Why You'll Love This Stuffed Clams Recipe
Classic flavors: inspired by Clams Casino, this recipe keeps the traditional taste people expect.
Simple prep: the stuffing comes together quickly and broils in minutes.
Year-round dish: this seafood appetizer recipe works just as well in summer as it does during the holidays.
Key Ingredients for Classic Stuffed Clams
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and instructions.
- Littleneck clams: small clams that cook evenly and hold the stuffing well.
- Pancetta: a flavorful swap for bacon that adds depth without overpowering the clams.
- Day-old bread: creates coarse crumbs that brown nicely under the broiler.
- Parmesan cheese: adds a salty, savory note to the stuffing.
- Fresh parsley: brightens the mixture and balances the richness.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Bacon can be used instead of pancetta if needed.
- Panko breadcrumbs can replace fresh bread crumbs.
- Pecorino Romano works in place of parmesan cheese.
Variations on Stuffed Clams with Pancetta
- Add finely chopped spinach to the stuffing for a green addition.
- Stir in a small pinch of crushed red pepper for mild heat.
- Finish the clams with a light drizzle of olive oil before broiling.
Tips for Classic Stuffed Clams
- Dice the pancetta finely so it cooks evenly in the skillet.
- Keep the breadcrumb mixture coarse for better texture.
- Rotate the pan under the broiler so the clams brown evenly.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover clams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350 degree oven or air fryer for 5 minutes, or just until until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Clams
Serve Stuffed clams alongside Cheesy Garlic Bread, Spaghetti Arrabiata, or Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil to round out the meal.
More Recipes You'll Love
If seafood appetizers are your things, you might enjoy Bang Bang Shrimp. You may also enjoy my Baked Haddock Recipe, Shrimp Fra Diavolo, or Seafood Pasta with Pinot Grigio Sauce.
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating
📖 Recipe
Stuffed Clams with Pancetta
Equipment
- Medium skillet
- Broiler-safe pan
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Ingredients
- ¾ cup finely diced pancetta
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons minced shallots
- 1 cloves garlic minced
- 2-3 slices white bread , day old is best
- 1½ tablespoon grated fresh parmigiana cheese
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 36 littleneck clams cleaned
- Lemon Wedges , for serving
Instructions
- Over medium heat in medium-sized skillet coated with cooking spray, cook pancetta until beings to brown, about 6 minutes.
- Add wine and cook until liquid evaporates scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Add bell pepper, shallots, and garlic and cook until tender. Remove from skillet and set aside in a medium bowl.
- Process bread in food processor until crumbs are course, should measure about ¾ cup. Add breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley and black pepper to pancetta mixture. Stir until blended.
- Pre-heat boiler.
- Clean and shuck clams. Discard any with open shells.
- Top each clam with about 1 rounded teaspoon pancetta mixture. Broil 4 minutes, turn pan and broil additional 3 minutes or until tops are browned and clams are done. Serve with lemon wedges.
Michelle Nahom says
Shelby, this looks delicious! My son loves clams...I've got to make this for him. Plus I love clams casino and pancetta too! Pinning and will SU too!
Susan Lindquist says
When my husband and I were dating, this was the appetizer that he ordered for me at a restaurant in Boston ... I will always have a soft spot in my heart for these half shells of romance!
Life Tastes Good says
I love pancetta and this is such an impressive dish!
Mary Ellen says
Yum, these look delicious! I love clams casino....
bellini says
These really do look delicious Shelby. I need to create a dinner party just so that I can serve them to my quests.