18 Delicious Steamed Clams Recipes for Seafood Lovers

Dive into the world of steamed clams, where simplicity meets elegance in every bite! Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend feasts, these 18 recipes are a treasure trove for seafood lovers. From classic garlic and white wine to bold, innovative twists, there’s a dish to satisfy every craving. Let’s steam up some magic in your kitchen—your next favorite meal is just a scroll away!

Garlic Butter Steamed Clams

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of garlic butter steaming up from a pot of fresh clams, ready to be dunked into with a piece of crusty bread. This Garlic Butter Steamed Clams recipe is a breeze to make and brings the taste of the seaside right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the 1/2 cup of dry white wine and 1/4 cup of water, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add the 2 pounds of scrubbed clams to the pot, cover with a lid, and steam for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the clams have opened.
4. Discard any clams that do not open. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the clams.

The magic of this dish lies in the simplicity of the ingredients letting the natural brininess of the clams shine, elevated by the rich garlic butter broth.

Tip: For an extra touch of luxury, a splash of heavy cream can be stirred into the broth at the end for a richer sauce.

White Wine and Herb Steamed Clams

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh clams steaming in a fragrant broth of white wine and herbs—it’s a simple dish that feels like a special occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the white wine and water, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add the clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the clams have opened.
4. Discard any clams that do not open. Stir in the butter, red pepper flakes, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately, ensuring each bowl gets plenty of the flavorful broth.

The magic of this dish lies in the broth—a briny, buttery liquid infused with the essence of the sea and a kick of heat from the red pepper flakes.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth.

Spicy Thai Steamed Clams

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Thailand with these Spicy Thai Steamed Clams, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and red chili, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, fish sauce, and brown sugar, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add the clams to the pot, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes until the clams open.
4. Discard any clams that do not open. Stir in the cilantro and lime juice before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, all coming together in a light yet deeply satisfying broth.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.

Coconut Milk Steamed Clams

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of steamed clams, especially when they’re bathed in a creamy, aromatic coconut milk broth. This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallot, sautéing until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Pour in the coconut milk and broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the fish sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Gently add the clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 6-8 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any that remain closed.
5. Stir in the fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of flavors—creamy coconut milk, a hint of sweetness, and a kick of heat that makes each spoonful exciting. It’s a simple yet sophisticated take on steamed clams that’ll transport you straight to the coast.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth.

Lemon and Dill Steamed Clams

There’s nothing quite like the bright, briny flavors of Lemon and Dill Steamed Clams to transport you straight to the seaside, no matter where you’re cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the white wine and water, then bring to a simmer. Add the clams, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes until the clams open.
3. Discard any clams that don’t open. Stir in the dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.

The combination of fresh dill and zesty lemon brightens up the natural sweetness of the clams, making this dish a refreshing choice for any seafood lover.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Beer Steamed Clams with Sausage

Nothing brings people together like a pot of Beer Steamed Clams with Sausage, a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The beer adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the briny clams and spicy sausage.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Cook until the onion is soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in beer and bring to a simmer. Add clams, cover the pot, and steam until clams open, about 6-8 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter and parsley. Season with salt to taste.

The magic of this dish lies in the beer’s ability to tenderize the clams while infusing them with a malty sweetness that balances the heat from the sausage. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try using a smoked beer or adding a splash of lemon juice at the end.

Tomato Basil Steamed Clams

There’s something magical about the combination of fresh clams, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil that screams summer by the sea. This Tomato Basil Steamed Clams recipe is a breeze to make and brings the taste of the ocean right to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
4. Add 2 lbs scrubbed clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any that don’t open.
5. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Serve immediately.

The quick steam locks in the clams’ natural juices, mingling beautifully with the bright tomatoes and basil for a dish that’s light yet deeply flavorful.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Miso Soup Steamed Clams

Warm up your evening with this comforting bowl of Miso Soup Steamed Clams, a perfect blend of savory miso and sweet, tender clams.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup white miso paste
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1/2 tsp sugar

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the clams, cover, and steam for 5-6 minutes until they open. Discard any unopened clams.
3. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1/4 cup white miso paste until fully dissolved.
4. Add 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tsp grated ginger, and 1/2 tsp sugar, stirring gently to combine.
5. Simmer for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Sprinkle with sliced green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the delicate balance of flavors—the umami-rich miso complements the natural sweetness of the clams, creating a broth that’s both light and deeply satisfying.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of sake to the broth along with the miso.

Chorizo and White Bean Steamed Clams

Dive into the cozy flavors of the sea with this Chorizo and White Bean Steamed Clams recipe, a perfect blend of smoky and savory that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced chorizo
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup canned white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until slightly crispy, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add white beans, white wine, and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 6-8 minutes until clams open. Discard any that don’t open.
5. Stir in parsley and salt to taste before serving.

The smoky chorizo and creamy white beans create a rich broth that perfectly complements the tender clams, making every spoonful a delight.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the flavorful broth.

Ginger Scallion Steamed Clams

There’s something incredibly satisfying about steaming clams at home, especially when infused with the vibrant flavors of ginger and scallion. This Ginger Scallion Steamed Clams recipe is a breeze to make and brings a restaurant-quality dish right to your kitchen table.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, julienned
• 3 scallions, sliced, whites and greens separated
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice wine
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, and scallion whites, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken stock, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add clams to the pot, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes until the clams open. Discard any clams that remain closed.
4. Garnish with scallion greens and serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

The magic of this dish lies in the aromatic broth that’s packed with umami and a hint of spice, perfectly complementing the sweet, tender clams.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk to the broth before serving.

Cajun Spiced Steamed Clams

Dive into the flavors of the Gulf with these Cajun Spiced Steamed Clams, a dish that brings a little heat and a lot of heart to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in chicken broth, white wine, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Add clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 6-8 minutes until clams open. Discard any that don’t open.
4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

The magic of this dish lies in the Cajun seasoning’s bold flavors, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of the clams. It’s a quick yet impressive meal that feels like a coastal getaway.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Cajun seasoning.

Sake Steamed Clams with Mushrooms

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Sake Steamed Clams with Mushrooms, a dish that marries the briny sweetness of clams with the earthy depth of mushrooms, all brought together with a splash of sake.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 1/2 cup sake
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add the shiitake mushrooms and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in the sake and bring to a simmer, then add the clams and cover the pot.
4. Steam the clams until they open, about 5-7 minutes, discarding any that remain closed.
5. Stir in the soy sauce and red pepper flakes, then sprinkle with green onions before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the sake’s ability to tenderize the clams while infusing them with a subtle sweetness, creating a broth that’s irresistibly sip-worthy.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

Curry Steamed Clams with Coconut

Dive into the cozy flavors of the sea with these Curry Steamed Clams with Coconut, a dish that brings a touch of exotic warmth to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp red curry paste
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for another minute, then pour in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the clams open. Discard any that remain closed.
4. Remove from heat, stir in the lime juice, and sprinkle with cilantro before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, all hugged by the creamy coconut milk. Perfect for when you’re craving something quick yet impressively flavorful.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious broth.

Pesto Steamed Clams

Dive into the flavors of the sea with these Pesto Steamed Clams, a dish that marries the freshness of clams with the vibrant taste of homemade pesto.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add clams to the pot, followed by white wine, salt, and black pepper. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until clams open.
3. Discard any clams that do not open. Stir in pesto and lemon juice, coating the clams evenly.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the pesto’s ability to cling to each clam, creating a burst of herby, garlicky goodness with every bite.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Bacon and Corn Steamed Clams

Dive into the flavors of the sea with this Bacon and Corn Steamed Clams recipe, a delightful twist on a classic that brings smoky and sweet notes to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Add the minced garlic to the bacon drippings and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the fresh corn kernels and cook for 2 minutes, then add the clams, white wine, and water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes until the clams open.
4. Discard any clams that do not open. Stir in the unsalted butter, salt, and black pepper until the butter melts.
5. Sprinkle the cooked bacon and fresh parsley over the clams before serving.

The combination of smoky bacon and sweet corn creates a broth that’s irresistibly rich, making every spoonful a treasure. Serve with crusty bread to soak up all the deliciousness.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try using smoked bacon in this recipe.

Lemongrass and Chili Steamed Clams

Dive into the vibrant flavors of the sea with these Lemongrass and Chili Steamed Clams, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 red chilies, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lemongrass, chilies, and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the clams to the pot, followed by the fish sauce, sugar, and water. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover the pot and steam the clams for 5-7 minutes, or until they open. Discard any clams that do not open.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of spicy, sour, and umami flavors, all brought together by the aromatic lemongrass. It’s a quick yet sophisticated seafood treat that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of coconut milk to the steaming liquid.

Sherry and Garlic Steamed Clams

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of Sherry and Garlic Steamed Clams, perfect for turning a simple weeknight into something special.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry sherry
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Pour in 1/2 cup dry sherry and 1/2 cup chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add 2 lbs fresh clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes until the clams open.
4. Discard any clams that don’t open. Stir in 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, and salt to taste until the butter melts.
5. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The combination of dry sherry and garlic creates a broth that’s deeply flavorful yet light, making it perfect for sopping up with crusty bread.

Tip: Serve immediately with slices of crusty bread to enjoy every last drop of the savory broth.

Clams Steamed in Cider with Apples

Imagine the sweet tang of apples mingling with the briny depth of clams, all steamed to perfection in a cider broth. This dish is a cozy nod to New England’s coastal flavors with a fruity twist.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh clams, scrubbed
• 1 cup hard cider
• 1 large apple, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in the hard cider and bring to a simmer. Add the apple slices and cook for 2 minutes to soften slightly.
3. Add the clams to the pot, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes until the clams open. Discard any that remain closed.
4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic here is in the cider’s transformation, reducing into a glossy sauce that clings to each clam and apple slice, offering a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.

Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious cider broth.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious steamed clams recipes inspires your next seafood feast! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious beginner, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest for future culinary adventures. Happy cooking!