Clams Casino

Clams Casino is a favorite seafood appetizer served in upscale restaurants. This fancy dish features juicy clams on the half shell topped with a mouthwatering mixture of crispy bacon, breadcrumbs and seasonings.

Ingredients 

• 3 pounds littleneck clams, 20-25 clams (see note)
• 3 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (see note)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 shallots, minced (about 1 cup)
• 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and minced fine, optional
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• ½ cup white wine, or chicken broth or water
• 1 cup bread crumbs, panko recommended
• 2 tablespoons parsley, flat leaf or curly, minced
• salt and pepper, to taste
• lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions 

Make the Topping

1. In a skillet, fry the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy. (You can also microwave the bacon if you prefer). Remove to a plate and crumble into bits using your fingers or by chopping with a knife. Set aside.
2. Optional: Use paper towel to soak up excess grease from the skillet. If you use all the grease, reduce the amount of butter by at least half.
3. Add the butter, minced shallot, garlic, optional bell pepper and optional red pepper flakes to the pan. Sauté over medium heat until fragrant and slightly softened, about one minute.
4. Add the wine and boil down by half, about 2-3 minutes. Then aa the breadcrumbs, reserved bacon and parsley, tossing to mix evenly. The texture should resemble damp sand somewhat. Remove from the heat and set aside.