Indulge in Coastal Elegance: Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells Extravaganza
Embark on a culinary voyage that combines the coastal charm of clams casino with the comfort of stuffed pasta shells—introducing Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells. This extraordinary dish brings together the briny goodness of clams, the smoky allure of bacon, and the satisfying texture of jumbo pasta shells. Prepare to elevate your dining experience with a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a gourmet meal at home, join us in unraveling the secrets behind the Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells that promise to transport you to a realm of indulgence.
Ingredients:
To embark on this flavor-packed adventure, gather the following ingredients:
Meat:
- 8 oz Bacon
Seafood:
- 2 cans Clams
Produce:
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Italian parsley
- 1 cup Onion
Pasta & Grains:
- 20 Pasta shells, jumbo
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper, freshly ground
- 2 pinch Cayenne
- 2 tbsp Flour
- 1 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
- 1 cup Peppers
Dairy:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 3/4 cups Milk
- 3/4 cup Parmigiano-reggiano
- 1/2 cup Ricotta cheese
Other:
- 3 cups Small French bread cubes or crumbles
Instructions:
- Bacon Bliss: Begin by cooking the bacon until crispy. Once cooked, crumble or chop it into small pieces, setting aside for later use.
- Clam Preparation: Drain the canned clams and reserve the liquid. Chop the clams into small pieces, ensuring a delightful bite in every shell. The clam liquid will be used later to infuse the sauce with a rich seafood flavor.
- Aromatics Unleashed: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic, finely chopped onion, and Italian parsley in butter until the onions are translucent and the mixture is aromatic.
- Seafood Symphony: Introduce the chopped clams and crumbled bacon to the aromatic mixture. Stir in black pepper, cayenne, and kosher salt. Let the ingredients meld together for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify.
- Bechamel Brilliance: Sprinkle flour over the clam and bacon mixture, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in the reserved clam liquid and milk, creating a luscious béchamel sauce. Allow the sauce to thicken, becoming the velvety base for the stuffed pasta shells.
- Cheese and Creamy Goodness: Stir in Parmigiano-reggiano and ricotta cheese into the sauce, creating a luxurious and creamy filling. Adjust the seasoning if needed, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.
- Pasta Shell Perfection: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Ensure they are al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and let them cool slightly for easy handling.
- Stuff and Arrange: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the decadent clam and bacon mixture, arranging them in a baking dish.
- Bread Crumb Brilliance: Toss small French bread cubes or crumbles with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle them over the stuffed pasta shells. This adds a delightful crunch to the dish, reminiscent of the classic clams casino.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbling with savory goodness.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh Italian parsley. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving, ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
Cook Notes:
- For a smokier flavor, consider using wood chips or a smoker to infuse the bacon with a rich, smoky essence.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as fontina or mozzarella, for a unique twist to the filling.
Variations:
- Spicy Seafood Surprise: Enhance the dish with a kick by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the clam and bacon mixture for a spicy seafood variation.
- Mediterranean Twist: Infuse a Mediterranean flair by incorporating chopped Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes into the filling, creating a burst of tangy and briny flavors.
Keto Versions:
For those following a keto lifestyle, Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells can be adapted to suit your low-carb preferences. Substitute the jumbo pasta shells with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a keto-friendly option. The richness of clams, bacon, and cheese remains keto-approved, offering a decadent meal without the carbs.
Low Carb Versions:
Watching your carb intake? Opt for low-carb pasta alternatives or use large portobello mushroom caps as a base for the clam and bacon filling. This ensures a low-carb version that maintains the robust flavors of the classic recipe.
As you savor each forkful of Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells, relish in the harmony of flavors that encapsulates the essence of coastal indulgence. This dish is a testament to the fusion of classic elegance and contemporary innovation. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed in solitude, the Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells promise a culinary experience that transcends the ordinary. So, let the coastal charm and savory allure captivate your senses, and indulge in the pleasure of this sophisticated masterpiece.
