Air Fryer Clam Casino

Elevate your appetizer game with Air Fryer Clam Casino! Enjoy tender clams with a crisp, savory topping made effortlessly in your air fryer. Perfect for any occasion!

Air Fryer Clam Casino is a delicious twist on the classic appetizer, combining tender clams with a savory topping of breadcrumbs, crispy bacon, and flavorful seasonings.

Using the air fryer ensures a perfectly golden and crispy finish while cutting down on cooking time.

This dish is an elegant addition to any meal, ideal for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or special occasions. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor,

Air Fryer Clam Casino brings a touch of gourmet flair to your table with minimal effort.

If you love easy air fryer seafood recipes, try my recipe for Ninja Woodfire Grill Tilapia, Weight Watchers Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp, or Air Fryer Surf and Turf.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and Easy: This recipe uses the air fryer to deliver gourmet-quality clams with minimal effort and in less time than traditional methods.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of crispy bacon, savory breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously complex and irresistible taste.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Elegant and crowd-pleasing, these clams make an impressive appetizer for any dinner party or holiday gathering.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks, making it suitable for any occasion or menu.

For quick seafood recipes you can make in the air fryer, try my recipe for Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Salmon Pinwheels, Air Fryer Scallops With Ritz Crackers, or Crispy Panko Fried Shrimp Recipe.

Ingredients Needed

• Fresh Clams: The star of the dish, providing a tender and briny base for the flavorful topping.
• Breadcrumbs: Add a golden, crispy texture to the topping that perfectly complements the clams.
• Crispy Bacon: Infuses the dish with a smoky, savory richness that enhances every bite.
• Minced Garlic: Brings a bold and aromatic depth to the flavor profile.
• Shallots: Add a touch of sweetness and balance to the savory ingredients.
• Butter: Helps bind the topping while adding a creamy richness.
• Fresh Parsley: Provides a pop of color and a refreshing, herbaceous note to finish the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors with a zesty citrus tang.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and enhances the visual appeal.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

How To Make Air Fryer Clam Casino

Step One: Rinse and scrub the clams thoroughly to remove any sand or debris, then place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F, for 3-5 minutes.

Step Two: In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Let it cool, then chop it into small pieces and set aside.

Step Three: In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, minced garlic, shallots, butter, parsley, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a savory topping.

Step Four: Carefully spoon the breadcrumb mixture onto each clam, pressing gently to adhere. Top with crispy bacon pieces for added flavor and texture.

Step Five: Place the topped clams back into the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Remove the clams from the air fryer, garnish with additional parsley or a lemon wedge if desired, and serve immediately as a flavorful appetizer!

Air Fryer Clam Casino Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Clams: For the best flavor and texture, always use fresh clams. If using canned or frozen clams, ensure they are properly drained and thawed before cooking.
• Adjust Topping for Texture: For a crunchier topping, add a bit more breadcrumbs or use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
• Crisp Bacon Beforehand: Cook the bacon until crispy before chopping and adding it to the clams to ensure it doesn’t become soggy during cooking.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer ensures that the clams cook evenly and the topping gets golden and crisp.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the clams in a single layer in the air fryer basket for the best air circulation and even cooking.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to customize the herbs in the topping. Fresh thyme or tarragon can add a unique twist to the classic flavor profile.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of extra parsley before serving for an added burst of freshness.
• Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the clams during cooking to prevent the breadcrumbs from burning. Check at the 6-minute mark and adjust as needed.

Storing

• Storing: Store leftover Air Fryer Clam Casino in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the clams separate from any topping to prevent sogginess.
• Freezing: While freezing Air Fryer Clam Casino is not recommended for the best texture, you can freeze the cooked clams separately and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions below.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the clams back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until the topping is crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Clam Casino

Air Fryer Clam Casino makes a perfect appetizer or snack, and it pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. For a light meal, serve it alongside a fresh, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the clams. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing it with garlic butter bread or toasted baguette slices, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.

For a more festive occasion, add a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy potato salad for an extra touch of comfort.

Air Fryer Clam Casino Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen clams for Air Fryer Clam Casino? Yes, you can use frozen clams, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess water before using them in the recipe.

How do I make the topping crispier? To make the topping extra crispy, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, and consider adding a little extra butter or olive oil for added crunch.

Can I make this recipe without bacon? Yes, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option or prefer to skip the bacon, you can omit it or substitute it with crispy fried onions for a different texture and flavor.

Can I prepare the clams ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the clams with the breadcrumb mixture and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just air fry them when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Air Fryer Clam Casino? Air Fryer Clam Casino pairs well with a light green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of chilled white wine. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a creamy potato salad for a more substantial meal.

Can I use canned clams for this recipe? Yes, you can use canned clams, but the texture may not be the same as fresh clams. Drain and rinse them well before using them in the recipe.

How long do I cook Air Fryer Clam Casino? Cook the clams in the air fryer at 375°F for about 6-8 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Clam Casino? While not recommended for the best texture, you can freeze the cooked clams for up to a month. To reheat, thaw and air fry them again for a few minutes until heated through.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Frozen Cod
• Air Fryer Crab Legs
• AIR FRYER SOFT SHELL CRAB
• AIR FRYER CRISPY BREADED FISH FILLETS
• AIR FRYER OLD BAY GRILLED SHRIMP SKEWERS
• AIR FRYER SALMON BURGER
• AIR FRYER BACON AND CRAB ROLLS

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