Hot Clam And Cheese Dip
A creamy, savory clam and cheese dip with a hint of spice, perfect for parties and gatherings, served hot with chips or toast for easy enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, green pepper, and pimentos in butter for approximately 3 minutes.
- Add minced clams, processed cheese, catsup, Worcestershire sauce, and milk or sherry to the sautéed vegetables.
- Heat until the cheese melts thoroughly.
- Keep hot in a chafing dish and serve with chips, party rye bread cut into pieces, or Melba toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding a splash of cream cheese or sour cream alongside the processed cheese. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can enhance the flavors. Substitute the green pepper with chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist. Make sure to drain the clams well to avoid excess liquid in your dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dip hot, keeping it in a chafing dish to maintain warmth. It's perfect alongside crispy tortilla chips, slices of party rye bread, or Melba toast. This dip also pairs beautifully with Jennifer'S Easy Saucepan Brownies for a sweet finish to your gathering. Consider offering fresh veggies as dippers for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dip gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to maintain the creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Clam And Cheese Dip contains roughly 236 calories, with 4g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 533mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh clams, but you'll need to cook and chop them before adding them to the dip. Ensure they are properly cleaned and steamed until they open, then mix them in as you would with the canned variety.
Is this dip suitable for parties?
Absolutely! This dip is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for parties. You can easily double the recipe to accommodate more guests. Just keep it warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish to ensure everyone enjoys it while it's hot and melty.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance. Cook it completely and then let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. This makes it a convenient option for busy hosts.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).