Clam Casserole

Clam Casserole Recipe with Eggs, Mushrooms, Butter, Salt, and Black Pepper

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Clam casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the briny flavor of clams with creamy mushroom soup and breadcrumbs for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

History

Clam casserole has been a popular dish in coastal regions for many years, where fresh seafood is abundant. The combination of clams and creamy soup has been a favorite among seafood lovers for generations.

Ingredients

2 eggs
1 can of minced clams
1 tbsp of butter
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of dried breadcrumbs
1 tsp of salt
1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a large bowl, beat the eggs.
Add the remaining ingredients and pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
Bake for 40 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of cream soup such as cream of celery or cream of chicken for a different taste.
Top the casserole with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the clams well before adding them to the casserole to prevent excess liquid.

- You can add additional seasonings such as garlic, onion, or herbs to customize the flavor of the casserole.

- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the clam casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh clams instead of canned clams for a more intense flavor.

- Substitute panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the clam casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the clam casserole with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the clam casserole with a crisp white wine or a light beer to complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of clam casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of clam casserole contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of clam casserole contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of clam casserole contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Clams are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and selenium, which are essential nutrients for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (clams) and dairy (butter and cream of mushroom soup).

Summary

Clam casserole is a rich and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Clam casserole is a classic dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a cool autumn day, the leaves falling gently from the trees as I strolled through the bustling farmer's market. I had always loved to cook, and my curiosity was piqued when I came across a stall selling fresh clams.

I struck up a conversation with the vendor, an older gentleman with a twinkle in his eye and a knowing smile. He told me about a family recipe for clam casserole that had been passed down through generations. Intrigued, I asked him if he would be willing to share it with me. To my surprise, he agreed.

As he recited the ingredients and instructions to me, I could feel my excitement building. The combination of clams, cream, and breadcrumbs sounded absolutely divine. I thanked the vendor profusely and hurried home to try out the recipe for myself.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. The scent of the clams simmering in the creamy sauce filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. As I sprinkled the breadcrumbs over the top and popped the casserole in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction.

When the dish was finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was like a revelation – the briny sweetness of the clams mingling with the rich cream and crunchy breadcrumbs was a symphony of flavors. I savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the chance encounter at the farmer's market that had led me to this delicious recipe.

Over the years, I have made the clam casserole countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that fateful day and the kind vendor who passed on his family's cherished recipe to me.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about it and begged for more. It has become a staple at our holiday gatherings and special occasions, a dish that never fails to impress.

But beyond the delicious taste of the clam casserole, what makes it truly special to me is the story behind it. It serves as a reminder of the joy that cooking can bring, the connections that can be forged over a shared love of food, and the way that a simple recipe can hold so much meaning and history.

As I sit here now, writing down this story for my grandchildren to read, I hope that they will inherit my love of cooking and treasure the recipes that have been passed down through our family. And who knows – perhaps one day, they too will have their own special moment of discovery, uncovering a recipe that will become a beloved part of their culinary repertoire.