Crispy Crust, Fresh Clams, and Garlic: The Ultimate New Haven Clam Pizza Recipe

Name: Crispy Crust, Fresh Clams, and Garlic: The Ultimate New Haven Clam Pizza Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh clams, shucked; 1 pizza dough ball; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette; Chilled white wine or a light lager; Garlic bread for an extra indulgence

By Jason Griffith

April 22, 2025 3 Min Read

The Ultimate New Haven Clam Pizza Recipe

Growing up in New England, clam pizza was a staple at family gatherings, especially during the summer months when fresh seafood was abundant. I remember the first time I tasted this unique dish at a local pizzeria in New Haven. The combination of crispy crust, tender clams, and aromatic garlic was unlike anything I had ever experienced. It was a revelation that sparked my love for seafood and pizza, and now, I’m excited to share this recipe that holds a special place in my heart.

What Makes It Special

This clam pizza recipe stands out for several reasons:

Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh clams elevates the dish, providing a briny flavor that pairs beautifully with the garlic and cheese.
Crispy Crust: The secret to a perfect clam pizza lies in achieving that ideal crispy crust, which serves as the perfect base for the toppings.
Simple Yet Flavorful: With just a handful of ingredients, this pizza is both easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

1 lb fresh clams, cleaned and shucked
1 pre-made pizza dough
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s Get Cooking

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) to ensure a crispy crust.
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
Transfer the dough to a pizza stone or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with olive oil, then brush it evenly over the dough.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the garlic oil.
Evenly distribute the fresh clams on top of the cheese.
Season with salt and pepper, then bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley before slicing and serving.

My Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil before brushing it on the dough.
If you can’t find fresh clams, canned clams can be a good substitute, but be sure to drain them well.

What to Serve With It

Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
Chilled white wine or a light lager
Garlic bread for an extra indulgence

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen pizza dough?

A: Yes, frozen pizza dough works well! Just make sure to thaw it completely before rolling it out.

Q: How do I know when the clams are cooked?

A: The clams will be fully cooked when they open up during baking. Discard any clams that remain closed.

The Heart of the Dish

This clam pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to my childhood and a celebration of the flavors of New England. Each bite brings back memories of laughter and family gatherings, making it a dish I cherish deeply. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, and that it brings a little piece of New Haven into your home.

Your Turn

I invite you to try this clam pizza recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different toppings or share your own stories about clam pizza. I’d love to hear your feedback and any variations you come up with!