Are you a seafood lover looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe to impress your friends and family? Look no further! Clam cakes are a classic favorite that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, it’s no wonder why they’re a staple in many coastal communities.
But what makes clam cakes truly special is the versatility of their flavor profile. Whether you like them spicy, cheesy, herby, or smoky, there’s a recipe out there that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering clam cake recipes that will take your culinary game to the next level.
From classic New England-style cakes to international-inspired flavors, we’ve got you covered with our collection of savory clam cake recipes. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge in these irresistible treats!
Classic New England Clam Cakes
Experience the quintessential taste of the Northeast with these succulent, flavorful clam cakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine clams, melted butter, egg, and vinegar. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the clam mixture and stir until a thick batter forms.
5. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the batter into the hot oil in batches, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Jalapeño Clam Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with these addictive Spicy Jalapeño Clam Cakes, bursting with juicy clams and a kick of heat from the jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or canned clams, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine clams, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, jalapeño, egg, and lemon juice. Mix until just combined.
3. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 patties.
4. Fry the clam cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Clam Cakes
These bite-sized clam cakes are a flavorful twist on traditional seafood fritters. With the added richness of melted cheddar and the pungency of garlic, they’re perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine clams, flour, panko, paprika, cayenne (if using), and cheese.
3. Add garlic and mix well.
4. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cornmeal Clam Cakes with Herbs
Savor the flavors of the ocean with these crispy cornmeal cakes infused with fresh herbs and succulent clams.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup clams, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
3. Add olive oil, parsley, dill, clams, and lemon juice to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized mounds of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Beer-Battered Clam Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with this addictive recipe featuring crispy beer-battered clam cakes, perfect for a casual dinner or party appetizer. With just the right balance of crunchy exterior and tender interior, these mouthwatering treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chopped clams to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
3. Pour in beer and mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a tablespoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil, leaving space between each cake.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain cakes on paper towels and serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce (if desired).
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on the number of clam cakes you make.
Zesty Lemon Herb Clam Cakes
Brighten up your dinner plate with these succulent clam cakes infused with the zest of lemon and freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the chopped clams and egg to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cake.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Old Bay Seasoned Clam Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy, flavorful clam cakes infused with the classic flavors of Old Bay seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped clams, flour, panko breadcrumbs, and grated cheddar cheese.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, mayonnaise, and Old Bay seasoning.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Form into 6-8 patties.
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 on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten-Free Clam Cakes
Discover the delight of these scrumptious gluten-free clam cakes, perfect for a seafood lover’s indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup clams, chopped (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine gluten-free flour, melted butter, mayonnaise, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped clams.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Sweet Corn and Clam Cakes
Sweet Corn and Clam Cakes Recipe
Savor the flavors of the coast with these crispy and savory sweet corn and clam cakes, perfect as an appetizer or side dish. This recipe combines fresh corn, succulent clams, and a hint of spice for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1/2 cup canned clams, drained and rinsed
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cheese, scallions, and paprika.
3. Add the beaten egg, salt, and pepper; mix until just combined.
4. Fold in the sweet corn kernels and clams.
5. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the mixture into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per batch
Bacon and Cheddar Clam Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with these crispy, savory clam cakes infused with the rich flavors of bacon and cheddar. Perfect for a quick dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add clams, bacon, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and egg to the bowl. Mix until just combined.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 patties.
5. Fry clam cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun-Style Clam Cakes
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with these Cajun-Style Clam Cakes, packed with juicy clams, crispy texture, and a punchy kick. These mouthwatering morsels are perfect for a snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen clams, chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine clams, flour, cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add melted butter and beaten egg; mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
4. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the mixture into the hot oil, forming patties.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Herb-Infused Clam Cakes
These succulent clam cakes are infused with the fresh flavors of parsley, dill, and chives, making them a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, flour, panko breadcrumbs, cheese, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill. Mix until just combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Place the clam cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Panko-Crusted Clam Cakes
A twist on traditional clam cakes, this recipe adds a light and crispy Panko crust to the classic seafood favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together clams, flour, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size.
3. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Dip each patty into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the clam cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 4-6 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: about 15-20 minutes
Mini Clam Cakes with Dipping Sauce
These bite-sized clam cakes are a delicious appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re packed with fresh clams and flavor.
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 butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Dipping sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped clams, melted butter, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Using your hands, shape mixture into small patties (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Fry clam cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of clam cakes)
Garlic Butter Clam Cakes
Savor the flavors of the sea with these mouthwatering Garlic Butter Clam Cakes. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, this recipe combines tender clams, crispy breadcrumbs, and aromatic garlic butter for a taste sensation.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine clams, garlic, butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add panko breadcrumbs and egg; gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place clam cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Paprika Clam Cakes
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these delectable Smoky Paprika Clam Cakes, infused with the rich flavors of the sea and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the clams and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add melted butter, beaten egg, and chopped clams to the bowl; mix until just combined.
5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Clam Cakes
Elevate your seafood game with these unique Sweet Potato Clam Cakes, packed with the rich flavors of sweet potatoes and fresh clams.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 pound clams, rinsed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chopped clams, melted butter, and beaten egg; mix until just combined.
4. Using wet hands, shape mixture into 8-10 patties.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian-Inspired Clam Cakes with Soy Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with these crispy clam cakes infused with the flavors of Asia, served with a savory soy glaze. Perfect for a quick and easy snack or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, rinsed and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine clams, flour, panko breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until just combined.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop the clam mixture into the oil, forming patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
4. Remove cakes from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. For the soy glaze, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl.
6. Serve clam cakes with soy glaze spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of 18 savory clam cake recipes! From classic New England Clam Cakes to spicy Jalapeño and cheesy garlic variations, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Discover creative twists like cornmeal cakes with herbs, crispy beer-battered treats, and zesty lemon herb delights. Whether you’re a fan of old bay seasoning or sweet potato additions, there’s something for everyone in this diverse collection of clam cake recipes.
