Step 1

Preheat oven to 450°F.

Step 2

In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the onion and red bell pepper until soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, thyme, parsley and cheese. Add the melted butter mixture and combine well.

Step 4

Arrange the opened clams on a rimmed baking sheet. Place a slice of bacon on each clam, and top with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 5

Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the tops of the clams are golden brown.