Stuffed Clams

I tried yet another new recipe for dinner today, and yes, it was a hit!
STUFFED CLAMS
2 dozen clams (remove from washed shells and chop)
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped red pepper
2 tsp. minced garlic
1 stick butter
1 sleeve saltine crackers
salt, pepper, Old Bay to taste
1 tsp. parsley flakes
Melt butter in pan; add onion, celery, red pepper, and garlic. Saute' for 10 minutes. Add chopped clams and seasonings, cook 10 minutes more. Add crushed crackers, 10 at a time, stirring until thick. Place 24 half shells on pan and stuff with mixture. Sprinkle with Panko crumbs. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.