If you love seafood that bursts with flavor and delivers that irresistible combination of garlic and butter, you’re in for a treat with this Buttery Garlic Steamed Clams Recipe. It’s a quick and elegant dish that brings together tender little neck clams bathed in a fragrant sauce of melted butter, fresh garlic, white wine, and bright lemon juice. Perfectly balanced and simple to prepare, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for impressing friends or enjoying a cozy night in with a comforting and delicious seafood feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white colander filled with many whole clams, each with a rounded shell showing light brown to beige colors and natural ridges. The shells have a slightly shiny surface and some darker streaks. The colander has small round holes and rests on a white marbled textured surface. The light highlights the textures and colors of the clam shells clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for creating the rich, aromatic sauce and ensuring the clams shine in every bite. Each one adds its own magic—from the creamy texture of butter to the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice, and the subtle herbaceous notes from parsley.

Finlandia Unsalted Butter, 5 tablespoons (divided): Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness and adds silky richness to the sauce.
Fresh minced garlic, 1 tablespoon: This infuses the butter with an irresistible aroma and gentle kick.
White wine, 1 cup: Adds acidity and depth, elevating the flavor while creating the perfect steaming liquid.
Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter perfectly.
Little neck clams, 3 dozen: Fresh and scrubbed, these tender clams are the star of the dish.
Fresh Italian parsley, 1/3 cup chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of green color.
Lemon wedges, from 1 lemon (optional): For a final touch of citrus that guests can squeeze on top.

How to Make Buttery Garlic Steamed Clams Recipe

Step 1: Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic

Start by melting 2 and 1/2 tablespoons of the Finlandia unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the freshly minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until you smell its fragrant, buttery aroma. This step infuses the butter, setting the foundation for the sauce with that signature garlicky warmth.

Step 2: Add Wine and Lemon Juice

Next, pour in 1 cup of white wine and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This creates a bright, tangy base that helps steam the clams while marrying perfectly with the richness of the butter and garlic.

Step 3: Steam the Clams

Carefully add the little neck clams to the skillet along with the remaining 2 and 1/2 tablespoons of butter. Cover the skillet with a lid and steam the clams until they open wide, usually around 7 to 8 minutes. Don’t forget to gently shake the pan occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption throughout.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

Once the clams have opened, discard any that have remained closed — we only want the freshest delicious bites! Sprinkle the dish evenly with the chopped fresh Italian parsley for a burst of color and herbal freshness. If you like, garnish with lemon wedges for that extra touch of citrus vibrancy just before serving.

How to Serve Buttery Garlic Steamed Clams Recipe

This image shows a black cast iron pan filled with open clams that have a light beige shell with brown stripes. The clams are mixed with bright yellow lemon wedges and small bits of green herbs scattered on top. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface. The light shines on the clams making their texture clear and shiny, showing the soft meat inside some of the shells. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like bright lemon wedges and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley lift the dish aesthetically and enhance the natural flavors. The lemon adds a wonderful zing that complements the buttery sauce, while parsley introduces a mild, earthy freshness that pairs beautifully with seafood.

Side Dishes

These buttery garlic steamed clams truly shine when paired with rustic sides. A crusty French baguette is a classic choice—perfect for soaking up every last drop of that luscious buttery sauce. Alternatively, serving the clams over a bed of al dente pasta makes for a hearty, comforting meal that highlights the garlic and wine flavors in a whole new way.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or special dinner, consider serving the clams in individual bowls with mini baguette slices on the side, or atop a bed of lightly sautéed greens for a fresh, gourmet twist. You could even elevate your presentation by adding a sprinkle of chili flakes or finishing with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an extra layer of complexity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover clams, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the clams separate from the broth to preserve their texture. They should stay good for up to two days, making day-two dinner just as delightful.

Freezing

Freezing clams after cooking isn’t usually recommended since it can affect their texture and flavor. If you must freeze, store the clams in their broth in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month. Thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the clams gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid toughening the meat. Add a splash of white wine or broth to bring back moisture and heat evenly without overcooking. Avoid microwaving, which can make them rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?

Fresh clams are definitely preferred for the best flavor and texture in this Buttery Garlic Steamed Clams Recipe, but if you have frozen clams, thaw them fully and rinse well before using. Keep in mind the steaming time might be a little shorter.

What type of white wine is best for this dish?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully, as it adds acidity without overpowering the delicate clam flavors. Avoid very sweet wines, which can throw off the balance.

How do I know if the clams are fresh?

Fresh clams should smell like the ocean—briny and clean—and their shells should be tightly closed or close when tapped. Avoid any clams with cracked or open shells that don’t respond to a tap, as they may be unsafe to eat.

Can I add other herbs or spices?

Absolutely! While parsley is traditional, thyme or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add interesting dimension. Just be sure not to overpower the natural clam flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

The Buttery Garlic Steamed Clams Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you serve it without bread or over gluten-free pasta. Always check your wine label to ensure no additives contain gluten if you have sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Buttery Garlic Steamed Clams Recipe is a shining example of how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. It’s quick, elegant, and packed with flavor that feels both indulgent and comforting. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved classic—so go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy every garlicky, buttery, clam-filled bite!