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Spicy Garlic Butter Clams

Easy Spicy Garlic Butter Clams for a Cozy Night In

Quick and Creamy Spicy Garlic Butter Clams offer indulgent flavors in just 15 minutes, ideal for a cozy dinner.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Clams
  • 2 cups Frozen Precooked Clams Fresh clams may be substituted if cleaned and cooked properly.
For the Sauce
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic enhances the profile; jarred may save you time.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Consider using a lower-fat alternative for a lighter version.
  • 1 tablespoon Oil Any neutral oil works, but olive oil brings an extra touch of flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust to your liking; fresh chilies can be swapped for a different heat profile.
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Light alternatives may lessen the richness, but won't be quite the same.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can offer an enticing twist.
  • ½ teaspoon Salt Sea salt or kosher salt is preferred for optimal taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Can be omitted or substituted with honey for a different texture.
  • 1 teaspoon Curry Powder Omit if you're not feeling adventurous.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used as an alternative for a zesty change.

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and a drizzle of oil over medium-low heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and pale golden.
  2. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of chili flakes and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is beautifully golden and aromatic.
  3. Pour in 1 cup of heavy whipping cream, stir well, and add 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and optional curry powder.
  4. Increase the heat slightly, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, and let thick for 3-5 minutes while stirring frequently until it reaches a rich, velvety consistency.
  5. Carefully add 2 cups of frozen precooked clams to the sauce, stirring to ensure they are well-coated. Cover and heat through for about 1 minute.
  6. Remove the lid and let them simmer uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the clams are plump.
  7. Remove from heat, stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to maintain clams' tenderness.

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