When it comes to seafood, few ingredients are as versatile and delicious as chopped clams. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of chowder or a flavorful topping for your favorite pasta dish, these briny bivalves have got you covered. In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the incredible range of possibilities when it comes to using chopped clams in your cooking.
From classic New England-style dishes to innovative twists on international flavors, our collection of recipes is sure to inspire even the most adventurous home cooks. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your menu, these 18 savory chopped clam recipes are the perfect place to start.
New England Style Chopped Clam Chowder
A classic coastal favorite gets a warm and comforting twist with this hearty chowder recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a chilly day at the beach.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, chopped (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 cups clam juice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add milk, clam juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
5. If using potatoes, add them to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Chopped Clam Fritters with Lemon Aioli
Crispy Chopped Clam Fritters with Lemon Aioli Recipe
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy and addictive fritters, served with a tangy and creamy lemon aioli. Perfect for a coastal-inspired appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup chopped clams
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Lemon Aioli ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped clams, flour, panko breadcrumbs, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the clam mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Lemon Aioli:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt to taste
Combine all aioli ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Serve fritters with lemon aioli for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Chopped Clam Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the brininess of clams with the richness of garlic butter, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and indulgent dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped clams (fresh or canned)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chopped clams to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until clams are heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and clam mixture in a large serving bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chopped Clam Tacos with Avocado Crema
Spicy Chopped Clam Tacos with Avocado Crema: A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the brininess of clams with the spiciness of chipotle peppers and the creaminess of avocado crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chopped clams
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced radishes
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the clams, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper; cook until the clams are opaque and tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by spooning the clam mixture onto a warmed tortilla and topping with avocado crema and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sour cream
– Mix all ingredients until smooth; refrigerate until ready to use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chopped Clam and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with these Chopped Clam and Bacon Stuffed Mushrooms. Succulent mushrooms, savory clams, and crispy bacon come together for a flavor combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh clams
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a pan over medium heat, sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the clams and cook until they’re opaque and tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the clam mixture, followed by a sprinkle of crumbled bacon.
4. Dot the top of each mushroom with butter and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Chopped Clam Casino Dip
Classic Chopped Clam Casino Dip Recipe
This classic dip recipe is a staple for any party or gathering. The combination of clams, cream cheese, and crackers will have your guests asking for the recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can of chopped clams
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)
– Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped clams until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small ceramic dip bowl.
5. Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top of the dip.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chopped Clam and Herb Butter Crostini
This recipe combines the brininess of clams with the brightness of fresh herbs, all on a crispy baguette slice. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 2 tablespoons chopped clams (such as cherrystone or littleneck)
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, parsley, chives, and clams until well combined.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of clam butter mixture onto each bread slice.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the butter is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Linguine with White Wine Chopped Clam Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines the simplicity of linguine pasta with the rich flavors of white wine, garlic, and fresh clams. A perfect choice for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 cups chopped fresh clams (or 1 can of clam chowder)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add white wine and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half.
4. Add chopped clams (or clam chowder) and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until clams are tender.
5. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid and linguine. Toss to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated with sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chopped Clam and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Add a touch of oceanic elegance to your pasta dish with this creative take on classic stuffed shells. Chunks of tender clams and wilted spinach bring a surprising depth of flavor to these cheesy, indulgent shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (6 oz) can chopped clams, drained
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine clams, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and flour. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each shell with the clam-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zesty Chopped Clam Ceviche
Add a burst of flavor to your gathering with this refreshing Zesty Chopped Clam Ceviche, perfect for warm weather and casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or canned clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortilla chips or toasted bread for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped clams, lime juice, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.
2. Stir gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve chilled, with tortilla chips or toasted bread on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is best served fresh and chilled.
Chopped Clam and Corn Fritters with Remoulade
Savor the sweetness of fresh corn and the brininess of clams in these crispy, flavorful fritters. Serve them with a creamy remoulade for dipping and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped clams
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chopped clams, corn kernels, flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in buttermilk and mix until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the clam-corn mixture into the oil.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Chopped Clam Risotto with Parmesan
Savor the rich flavors of this creamy risotto dish, featuring tender clams and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups clam juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6.5 oz) chopped clams, drained
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add clam juice, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until rice is creamy.
4. Stir in white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
5. Add butter, chopped clams, and Parmesan cheese; stir until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chopped Clam and Chorizo Paella
A classic Spanish dish gets a twist with the addition of fresh clams and spicy chorizo sausage. This flavorful paella is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups chopped fresh clams
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add chicken broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in clams; cook until they open.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Baked Chopped Clam Stuffed Potatoes
A twist on traditional baked potatoes, these stuffed spuds are packed with the briny flavor of chopped clams and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a coastal-inspired dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) chopped clams, drained
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, combine the chopped clams and cheddar cheese in a bowl.
6. When the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and slice them open lengthwise.
7. Stuff each potato with the clam-cheese mixture and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chopped Clam and Garlic Bread Pizza
This pizza combines the brininess of chopped clams with the richness of garlic bread, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a quick dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh clams
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
2. Spread garlic butter (softened butter mixed with minced garlic) evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
3. Top with chopped clams and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chopped Clam and Kale Soup with Crusty Bread
This creamy soup is a perfect combination of fresh seafood and nutritious greens, served with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A comforting and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams, broth, and kale. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until clams open and kale is tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chopped Clam and Lemon Butter Scallopini
This dish is a masterclass in simplicity, showcasing the tender sweetness of scallops paired with the brininess of clams and the brightness of lemon butter. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh clams (such as littleneck or cherrystone)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add chopped clams and lemon juice to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until clams start to open.
5. Season scallops with salt and pepper. Place on top of clam mixture in the skillet.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and cook for 8-10 minutes or until scallops are cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chopped Clam and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this delectable combination of fresh clams, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 fresh cherrystone clams, chopped
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 baguette slices, toasted
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine chopped clams, diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Arrange toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon the clam-tomato mixture over the bread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around each slice.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Looking for some deliciously easy recipes to spice up your mealtime? Look no further! This article presents 18 savory chopped clam recipes that are sure to please. From classic chowders and pasta dishes to tacos, fritters, and more, these mouthwatering creations showcase the versatility of clams in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes offer a wealth of flavor and inspiration for your next meal.
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