Hot Clam And Cheese Dip(Appetizer)
A warm, cheesy clam dip bursting with savory flavors, perfect for sharing with friends and pairing with crackers at gatherings or as an appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the minced clams, juice, and lemon juice in a small saucepan for 15 minutes.
- Saute chopped onion, minced garlic, diced green pepper, oregano, and Tabasco sauce in butter.
- Add plain breadcrumbs to the clam mixture and sauce.
- Mix in the sautéed vegetables.
- Spray a small casserole dish with non-stick spray.
- Place half of the mixture in the dish and cover with half of the cheese.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Serve with Ritz crackers, Triscuits, or any plain crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. If you prefer a bit of heat, increase the Tabasco sauce or add diced jalapeños. You can substitute the minced clams with canned shrimp or crab if desired. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a delightful flavor. Make sure to sauté the vegetables until they are soft for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This dip is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Ritz crackers, Triscuits, or any plain crackers. For a more filling snack, serve it alongside fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. You might also consider serving it with a side of Cole Slaw With A Kick for a refreshing contrast. It's a great addition to any appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Clam And Cheese Dip(Appetizer) contains roughly 498 calories, with 19g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (207% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 58g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as instructed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What cheese should I use for this dip?
A sharp cheddar or a creamy mozzarella works well for this dip, providing a nice melt and flavor. You can also experiment with a blend of cheeses or even use a pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just be sure to shred the cheese for even melting.
Can I use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, fresh clams can be used, but they will require cleaning and cooking beforehand. Steam the clams until they open, then chop them and add to the dip. This will give the dip a fresher taste but may require more prep time.
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).