Minced Clam And Cheese Delight
A creamy, cheesy clam pasta dish with rich flavors of minced clams and sharp Cheddar, perfect for a comforting seafood dinner that appeals to the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until blended.
- Gradually add the minced clams and their juice, stirring until smooth.
- Pour in the milk, stirring to thicken the mixture.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and heat until melted and creamy.
- Serve the clam cheese sauce over cooked pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the clam mixture. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative. Always taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful clam cheese sauce over your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. A fresh side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish. For a complete meal, consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to the pasta for added color and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the clam cheese sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess as it reheats.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Minced Clam And Cheese Delight contains roughly 392 calories, with 11g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 steam them first and then chop them before adding to the sauce. Be sure to reserve the clam juice for flavor. This will require more preparation time but will enhance the overall freshness of the dish.
What can I serve with Minced Clam And Cheese Delight?
This dish pairs excellently with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. You could also serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the cheese sauce. Feel free to explore other American recipes for side dish inspiration.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze the sauce, the texture may change upon thawing, and the cheese might separate. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the cheese and adding it fresh when reheating. This will help maintain a smoother consistency in the final dish.
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).