Clams Casino

Instructions

1. Prepare the clams
   Place the clams in a large pot with 1 cup of water. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. Steam until the clams open, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any clams that don't open. Remove the clams from their shells, reserving half of each shell. Chop the clam meat and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crisp but not burnt, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan.
3. Make the stuffing
   Add the butter to the reserved bacon fat in the skillet. Once melted, add the bell pepper, garlic, and shallots. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the white wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl. Add the chopped clams, cooked bacon, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff and arrange the clams
   Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange the reserved clam shells on a baking sheet. Spoon the stuffing mixture into each shell, mounding slightly. You may need to press the mixture gently to ensure it stays in place.
5. Bake the clams
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the tops are golden brown and the stuffing is heated through, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Serve
   Transfer the baked clams to a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the clams.