Clam Bake on the Grill

Ingredients

  • (Serves 2)
  • Fresh seaweed (optional, for authentic flavor)
  • 1 lobster (1 to 1-1/4 pounds)
  • 4 littleneck clams
  • 1 small Polish or chorizo sausage, grilled and cut in half
  • 2 small red potatoes, partially cooked
  • 1 corn cob, shucked and broken in half
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 2 plum tomatoes, cut in wedges
  • 1/2 lemon, cut in wedges
  • Fresh parsley sprigs
  • 2 sheets heavy-duty aluminum foil (18×24 inches each)

Dreaming of a coastal clam bake but stuck inland? Bring the beach to your backyard with this foil-wrapped clam bake on the grill. Packed with lobster, clams, sausage, and fresh veggies, this New England classic steams to perfection right on your grill. No sand, no mess—just bold flavors and happy guests.

Cooking Steps

  • 1
    Layer and Build:
  • 2
    Lay down one sheet of heavy-duty foil.
  • 3
    If using seaweed, place a layer on the bottom for that ocean-side aroma.
  • 4
    Put the lobster in the center.
  • 5
    Arrange clams, sausage, potatoes, corn, onions, tomatoes, and lemon wedges around it.
  • 6
    Top with parsley sprigs for a fresh pop of flavor.
  • 7
    Wrap it Up:
  • 8
    Fold and seal the foil using the “drugstore wrap” method (folding long sides together, then ends tightly to seal).
  • 9
    Wrap again with the second foil sheet to avoid leaks.
  • 10
    Grill to Perfection:
  • 11
    Place the foil packet on a preheated grill over medium-high heat.
  • 12
    Grill for 15 to 20 minutes, until clams open and lobster is cooked through.
  • 13
    Serve:
  • 14
    Carefully open the foil (steam will escape!)
  • 15
    Serve the seafood feast directly from the foil or transfer to a platter.

How to Use It:

  • 1

    As a marinade for beef, chicken, or tofu before grilling or baking

  • 2

    As a dipping sauce for egg rolls, potstickers, or wontons

  • 3

    As a drizzle over rice bowls and steamed vegetables

Why You’ll Love It:

  • 1
    ✔ No digging pits or lighting beach fires
  • 2
    ✔ Cooks in one sealed foil pouch – no cleanup!
  • 3
    ✔ Bursts with classic coastal seafood flavor
  • 4
    ✔ Customizable with your favorite shellfish or sausage
  • 5
    ✔ Impresses guests at any summer gathering

Tips & Variations:

  • 1
    🦐 Swap the Shellfish: Not into lobster? Use jumbo shrimp or crab legs.
  • 2
    🌽 Make It a Crowd Pleaser: Prep multiple foil packets ahead of time for large groups.
  • 3
    🔥 No Grill? Bake in a 400°F oven for 20–25 minutes.
  • 4
    🥔 Pre-Cook Potatoes: Microwave or boil them halfway to ensure even cooking on the grill.

Perfect for:

  • 1
    Summer backyard parties
  • 2
    4th of July celebrations
  • 3
    Coastal-themed date nights
  • 4
    Camping or RV grilling

Roughing It Easy

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