Baked Clams Perce

Directions

1. 1
   Bring 1 cup water to a boil in a 4-quart heavy pot, then add clams and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until clams just open, 4 to 8 minutes, checking frequently after 4 minutes.
2. 2
   (Discard any clams that haven't opened after 8 minutes.)
3. 3
   Transfer clams as they open with a slotted spoon to a bowl and discard cooking water.
4. 4
   Preheat broiler.
5. 5
   Shuck clams and reserve 24 half shells.
6. 6
   Scrub reserved shells inside and out, then dry.
7. 7
   Return clams to shells and arrange in a shallow (1-inch-deep) baking pan.
8. 8
   Divide stuffing and cheese among clams and top each with a piece of bacon and a drop of Worcestershire sauce.
9. 9
   Broil clams 5 to 6 inches from heat until bacon is cooked and stuffing is golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.
10. 10
    Serve immediately.