Mom'S Hot Clam Dip
Mom's Hot Clam Dip is a savory, cheesy appetizer bursting with the flavors of minced clams, herbs, and a touch of spice. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it offers a warm, comforting taste that pairs beautifully with crackers or Triscuits. A crowd-pleasing seafood dip with rich, aromatic notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Need a 9-inch pie plate for baking.
- Simmer the two cans of minced clams and lemon juice together for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, mince the onion, garlic, and green pepper.
- Simmer the minced onion, garlic, and green pepper in butter until soft.
- Combine the clam mixture with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pie plate.
- Top with crumbled Velveeta cheese or grated cheese.
- Coat the top with paprika.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot with Triscuits or other crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding cooked bacon for extra flavor or substitute the green pepper with chopped spinach for a different taste. If you prefer a creamier dip, mix in some cream cheese before baking. Make sure to drain the clams well to avoid excess moisture. Using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the dish, though dried parsley and oregano work just fine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot clam dip with Triscuits or your favorite crackers for a delightful appetizer. It also pairs beautifully with fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy contrast. For a more substantial meal, consider serving alongside a light salad or as part of a seafood platter featuring dishes like Tuna Potato Casserole or Fish Supreme.
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, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the dip's creamy texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Hot Clam Dip contains roughly 556 calories, with 13g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (205% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 57g 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 use fresh clams instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh clams! Just steam and chop them, then adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh clams will provide a more pronounced flavor, but ensure they are well cleaned and cooked through before adding to the dip.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine for a healthier option. If you want a richer flavor, try using ghee or coconut oil, which can also complement the dish well.
Is it possible to make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake it right before serving to enjoy it hot and bubbly.
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).