Get ready to dive into a world of delicious and indulgent seafood dishes with these 18 creamy clam sauce recipes! Whether you’re a fan of classic linguine with white clam sauce or something more adventurous like spicy arrabbiata clam sauce, we’ve got you covered. From the Mediterranean-inspired flavors of garlic butter clam sauce with angel hair pasta to the bold and zesty notes of chorizo and bell peppers, each of these recipes is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a variety of creative ways to use clams in sauces that will elevate any seafood dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their cooking routine.
Linguine with White Clam Sauce
This classic Italian dish is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy the sweetness of fresh clams and the creaminess of garlic butter sauce. This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6-8 littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add clams to the skillet and cook until they open, about 5-7 minutes. Discard any unopened clams.
4. If using white wine and clam juice, add them to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stir in butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked linguine, reserved pasta water, and clam sauce. Toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Red Clam Sauce
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this Italian-inspired dish, featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a rich red clam sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cups freshly shucked clams, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, parsley, basil, and clams to the skillet. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. When spaghetti is cooked, drain and add to the skillet. Toss to coat with the red clam sauce.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Clam Sauce with Angel Hair Pasta
This recipe combines the simplicity of angel hair pasta with the rich flavors of garlic butter and fresh clams, creating a delightful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) angel hair pasta
– 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup (60ml) clam juice
– 1 can (6.5 oz / 185g) chopped clams
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add white wine (if using) and clam juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has slightly reduced.
4. Stir in chopped clams and cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the garlic butter clam sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Clam Sauce with Fettuccine
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this classic Italian dish, featuring tender fettuccine pasta smothered in a luscious creamy clam sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of chopped clams in juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add parsley, garlic, and clams; cook for 2-3 minutes or until the clams are heated through.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the clam sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Clam Sauce
Add a bold twist to your pasta dishes with this spicy and savory arrabbiata clam sauce recipe. With its blend of garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh clams, this sauce is sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Freshly ground Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water and remove any broken or open shells.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the clams, white wine (if using), clam juice, salt, and black pepper. Simmer until the clams are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the parsley and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with freshly ground Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Clam Sauce with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
Elevate your seafood dishes with this vibrant and flavorful clam sauce, infused with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of herbs. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for pasta, seafood, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 cups freshly shucked clams, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in parsley, dill, and clams; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the clams are lightly browned.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture; season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Wine Clam Sauce with Linguine
This light and flavorful sauce is a perfect accompaniment to linguine, making it an ideal choice for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. With the simplicity of canned clams and the richness of white wine, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6.5 oz) chopped clams, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in white wine and bring to a simmer. Let reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
4. Add clams, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked linguine with the clam sauce. Toss until pasta is well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam Sauce with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This recipe is a twist on the classic clam sauce, adding sweet cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil for a bright and refreshing take. It’s perfect for pasta, rice, or as a dip for bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the clams under cold water, scrubbing off any grit.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the clams, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Cover the skillet with a lid.
6. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the clams open.
7. Stir in the chopped basil. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
New England Style Clam Sauce
A classic New England favorite, this rich and flavorful clam sauce is perfect for serving over linguine or fettuccine pasta. This recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (12 oz/340g) of chopped clams, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter, garlic, clams, white wine (if using), chicken broth, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked pasta and garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Clam Sauce with Pancetta and Peas
This rich and flavorful sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, rice, or as a dipping sauce for bread. The combination of tender clams, crispy pancetta, and sweet peas creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh or canned clams, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pancetta and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the clams and peas to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the clams are tender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam Sauce with Roasted Garlic and Chili Flakes
Elevate your pasta dishes with this flavorful and aromatic clam sauce, infused with the deep sweetness of roasted garlic and a spicy kick from chili flakes. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and those who appreciate bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add clams and cook until they open, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the clams from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add white wine and chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits with a wooden spoon.
4. Stir in roasted garlic and chili flakes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Return the clams to the skillet and toss with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Clam Sauce with Saffron and Cream
Elevate your pasta dishes or seafood recipes with this decadent clam sauce infused with the subtle flavor of saffron and the richness of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add clams and saffron mixture; cook until clams are opened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the top; whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Clam Sauce with Mushrooms and Thyme
This rich and flavorful sauce is perfect for pasta, seafood, or as a dip. With its velvety texture and savory aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) clams, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, clams, heavy cream, mustard, and thyme. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Clam Sauce with Spinach and Parmesan
This rich and flavorful sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, seafood, or as a dip for crusty bread. With the brininess of clams, the earthiness of spinach, and the nutty taste of Parmesan, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (6.5 oz) can of chopped clams, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chopped clams, spinach leaves, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve warm over your favorite pasta, seafood, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Clam Sauce with Lemon Zest and Parsley
This bright and zesty clam sauce is a perfect accompaniment to pasta, seafood, or as a dip for bread. The combination of fresh lemon zest and parsley adds a burst of citrusy flavor to the rich clams.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6 ounces) chopped clams, drained
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, clams, and lemon zest. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over pasta, seafood, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Clam Sauce with Chorizo and Bell Peppers
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic clam sauce, this recipe combines the brininess of clams with the smoky heat of chorizo and the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or canned clams
– 1/2 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chorizo and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, white wine, and clam juice. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the clams and cook, covered, until they open, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Clam Sauce with Artichokes and White Beans
A rich and flavorful Italian-inspired sauce that combines the brininess of clams, the sweetness of artichokes, and the creaminess of white beans. Perfect as a pasta topping or served with crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 medium artichoke hearts, quartered
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add clams, artichoke hearts, chicken broth, and cannellini beans. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until clams are tender.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Clam Sauce with Roasted Fennel and Olives
This rich and savory clam sauce is elevated by the subtle anise flavor of roasted fennel and the brininess of Kalamata olives. Serve over pasta, risotto, or as a dip for crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 bulbs fennel, trimmed and halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6 oz) of chopped tomatoes
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss fennel with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, combine clams, garlic, chopped tomatoes, white wine, and roasted fennel. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until clams open (about 10 minutes).
4. Stir in olives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the briny goodness of clams with these 18 creamy clam sauce recipes! From classic linguine with white clam sauce to more adventurous options like spicy arrabbiata and chorizo-infused sauces, there’s something for every seafood lover. Try pairing your favorite pasta with a rich and tangy clam sauce, or add some fresh herbs and lemon zest for a bright and citrusy flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something more exotic, these recipes are sure to please.
