Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells – A Decadent Seafood
Clams Casino Stuffed Pasta Shells combine tender pasta shells with a flavorful filling of chopped clams, crispy bacon, garlic, and cheese. The mixture is creamy, slightly smoky, and rich with seafood flavor. Baked in a light sauce and topped with cheese, the shells turn golden and delicious. This dish is hearty and perfect for special occasions. It offers a unique twist on traditional stuffed pasta. A satisfying blend of Italian comfort and seafood elegance.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup cooked clams (chopped, fresh or canned)
- 4 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara or white sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped clams and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in crumbled bacon, oregano, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and mix in ricotta, cream cheese, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread sauce evenly in a baking dish.
- Stuff each shell with the clam mixture and place in the dish.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Fresh clams give the best flavor, but canned works well.
- Bacon adds a signature smoky taste.
- Cream cheese makes the filling extra creamy.
- Use white sauce for a richer version.
- Don’t overcook shells—they should hold their shape.
- Lemon juice enhances seafood flavor.
- Breadcrumbs add texture to the filling.
- Garnish just before serving for freshness.