Are you a seafood lover looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen? Look no further! Today, we’re diving into the world of crispy clam cakes, with 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic New England-style clam cakes to spicy jalapeño-infused versions and everything in between, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the many flavors and textures that make clam cakes so beloved. Whether you’re a fan of buttery, herby flavors or bold, spicy kick, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your apron, preheat your oven or deep fryer (or try one of our air-fryer options!), and get ready to indulge in the ultimate seafood treat.
Classic New England Clam Cakes
Experience the quintessential flavors of the Northeast with these crispy and delicious clam cakes, a staple of New England cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or canned clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine clams, flour, cornmeal, paprika, salt, baking soda, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add milk, mixing until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop the clam mixture into the oil, forming patties.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Clam Cakes
Spicy Jalapeño Clam Cakes Recipe Summary:
Elevate your seafood game with these mouth-watering Spicy Jalapeño Clam Cakes, bursting with the flavors of fresh clams, crispy jalapeños, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine clams, jalapeños, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, lemon juice, and egg. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired cake size.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and gently flatten slightly into a patty shape.
5. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Cook the clam cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Buttermilk Clam Cakes with Herbs
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy, flavorful clam cakes infused with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chopped clams, buttermilk, melted butter, parsley, chives, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop clam mixture into the hot oil, forming small patties.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Beer-Battered Clam Cakes
Get ready to elevate your clam cake game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the freshness of clams with the crispiness of beer batter. Perfect for a seafood lover’s dinner party or a casual night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges and tartar sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chopped clams to the bowl and stir until just combined.
3. Gradually pour in beer while stirring with a fork until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop clam mixture into hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain clams on paper towels and serve hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce (if desired).
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Clam Cakes
These crispy clam cakes are packed with flavor from garlic, parmesan cheese, and fresh clams. Perfect for a seafood lover’s dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties (about 1/4 inch thick).
4. Fry the clam cakes in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Old Bay Seasoned Clam Cakes
Experience the classic flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with these crispy and savory Old Bay Seasoned Clam Cakes. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together clams, panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Add the lightly beaten egg and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the clam mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cornmeal Clam Cakes with Chipotle Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy, flavorful cornmeal clam cakes served with a smoky chipotle aioli. Perfect for a coastal-inspired dinner party or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix together cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add clams to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the cornmeal mixture.
4. Form clam cakes and place on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, mix together chipotle peppers, mayonnaise, and lemon juice to make the aioli.
7. Serve clam cakes with chipotle aioli.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zesty Lemon Clam Cakes
Zesty Lemon Clam Cakes Recipe
Brighten up your seafood dinner with these flavorful clam cakes infused with the tanginess of lemon and a hint of zing from hot sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, hot sauce, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Gently fold in chopped clams.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Clam Cakes
These decadent clam cakes combine the richness of bacon, cheddar cheese, and freshly shucked clams for a mouthwatering appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, crumbled bacon, panko breadcrumbs, grated cheddar cheese, beaten egg, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Using wet hands, shape mixture into 8-10 clam cakes.
5. Place clam cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Corn and Clam Cakes
These crispy fritters combine the sweetness of fresh corn with the brininess of clams, perfect for a summer evening by the sea. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these addictive treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup clam chowder (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add clam chowder and egg to the bowl; mix until just combined.
4. Fold in sweet corn kernels.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of mixture into the hot oil; fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove cakes from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (in batches)
Coconut-Crusted Clam Cakes
Coconut-Crusted Clam Cakes Recipe
These crispy clam cakes get a tropical twist with the addition of toasted coconut flakes and a hint of lime juice, perfect for a seafood dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped clams, panko breadcrumbs, grated coconut, mayonnaise, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Mix until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Divide the clam mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry clam cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Paprika Clam Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful and aromatic clam cakes infused with the deep smokiness of paprika. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these bite-sized treats will delight both seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb clams, shucked and chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 large eggs
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and olive oil.
4. Add egg mixture to clam mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Form into small patties (about 1/2 inch thick).
6. Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dill and Sour Cream Clam Cakes
These mouthwatering clam cakes combine the freshness of dill with the tanginess of sour cream, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chopped clams, sour cream, dill, and egg to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the clam cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Gluten-Free Clam Cakes
Savor the taste of the ocean with these crispy and flavorful gluten-free clam cakes, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Made with fresh clams, gluten-free flours, and aromatic spices, these bite-sized treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine clams, gluten-free flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and lemon juice.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Using wet hands, shape mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry clam cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air-Fryer Clam Cakes
These Air-Fryer Clam Cakes are a creative take on traditional clam cakes, with the added benefit of being healthier and easier to make. The air fryer helps to crisp up the outside while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, shucked and chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, lemon juice, and egg.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil.
5. Using your hands, shape the clam mixture into 6-8 patties.
6. Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
7. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Mini Clam Cakes with Remoulade
These bite-sized clam cakes are a twist on the classic New England favorite, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. The creamy remoulade sauce adds a tangy and rich flavor to balance out the sweetness of the clams.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine clams, panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix well.
2. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the clam cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain the clam cakes on paper towels. Serve warm with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Clam and Chorizo Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful clam and chorizo cakes, packed with a spicy kick. A perfect combination of tender clams, savory chorizo, and crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup Spanish chorizo, crumbled
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, chorizo, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, onion, garlic, and egg. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herbed Clam Cakes with Tartar Sauce
Savor the taste of the ocean with these crispy herbed clam cakes served with a tangy and creamy tartar sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Tartar sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine clams, flour, parsley, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to combine.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the clam cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with tartar sauce.
Tartar Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Cooking for seafood lovers? Look no further! This article presents 18 mouth-watering clam cake recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic New England-style clam cakes to spicy and savory variations, these crispy treats will delight your taste buds. Try them with a side of tartar sauce or remoulade for an added boost of flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something old-fashioned or modern twists like beer-battered or coconut-crusted, there’s a recipe here for everyone. So go ahead and get cracking – these clam cakes are sure to please!
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