Preheat Oven to 450°F
Cook the Bacon:
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, add bacon, and cook until crisp. Transfer cooked bacon to a plate and set aside.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Remove skillet from hear and add breadcrumbs, Parmesan, black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix in bacon bits and set aside mixture.
Steam Clams:
Boil 2 cups of water in a pot or Dutch oven. Place a steam basket over the boiling water and add the clams. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until all the clams have opened. Remove and drain the clams immediately, then let them cool.
Separate Clamshells:
Separate the clamshells, keeping only the half with the clam meat.
Assemble and Bake:
Divide the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each clam and bake on 450 until golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the clams with fresh parsley.
Serve with lemon on the side.
