Baked Clam Dip (Recipe)

Welcome to our delicious Baked Clam Dip recipe! If you’re looking for an easy and creamy appetizer that will be the star of any party, this baked seafood dip is perfect for you. Packed with the flavors of baked clams, this crowd-pleasing dip is both indulgent and mouthwatering.

Made with chopped clams, onion, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of spices, this baked clam dip is a heavenly combination of flavors. It’s incredibly simple to prepare and will impress your guests with its creamy texture and irresistible taste.

Key Takeaways:

• Create a delicious and easy appetizer with our Baked Clam Dip recipe.
• The dip is creamy, baked, and full of seafood flavor.
• Perfect for parties and gatherings.
• Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make it a breeze to make.
• Enjoy the dip with your favorite mild-flavored crackers.

Ingredients and Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make a delicious Baked Clam Dip? This easy recipe combines the flavors of chopped clams, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of spices for a creamy and satisfying dip that is perfect for parties and gatherings. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to create this crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (6.5 ounces) chopped clams, drained
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (such as oregano or thyme)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion with the drained clams, Parmesan cheese, hot sauce (if desired), garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dip is bubbling around the edges.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve the Baked Clam Dip warm with your favorite crackers for dipping. The creamy texture and combination of flavors are sure to impress your guests!

Tips and Variations

Here are some helpful tips and variations to enhance your Baked Clam Dip:

Adjust the Spices

You can easily adjust the spices in the recipe to suit your personal preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of spices or omit them altogether. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect combination of flavors that appeals to your taste buds.

Optional Hot Sauce

If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, feel free to leave out the hot sauce. This way, you can still enjoy the creamy and savory goodness of the dip without the heat. Alternatively, you can use a mild hot sauce or adjust the amount to add a touch of spiciness.

Breadcrumb Substitutions

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand, you can easily substitute them with Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. The Italian seasoned breadcrumbs will add a delicious herby flavor to the dip. Alternatively, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko, or even mix both types of breadcrumbs for a unique texture.

Halve the Recipe

If you’re hosting a smaller gathering or simply want individual portions, consider halving the recipe. This way, you can easily adjust the quantity of ingredients and ensure you have just the right amount of Baked Clam Dip for your event.

By following these tips and experimenting with variations, you can add your personal touch to the classic Baked Clam Dip recipe and create a delightful appetizer that will impress your guests. Let your taste buds guide you as you explore different flavors and enjoy the versatility of this beloved seafood dip!

Nutritional Information

Knowing the nutritional information of the baked clam dip can help you make informed choices about your diet. Here is the breakdown of the nutritional values for a 2-ounce serving of this delicious dip:

The baked clam dip is a rich source of calcium and iron, making it a nutritious choice for your appetizer spread.

Take a look at the table below to see the detailed nutritional breakdown:

With this nutritional information, you can enjoy the baked clam dip without worrying about its impact on your overall diet.

Alternative Baked Clam Dip Recipe

If you’re looking to try a different take on the classic baked clam dip, we have an alternative recipe that will surely delight your taste buds. This variation incorporates a combination of flavors and ingredients that add a unique twist to the traditional appetizer.

To make this alternative baked clam dip, you’ll need some minced clams, lemon juice, butter, onion, bell pepper, parsley, oregano, hot pepper sauce, cayenne pepper, bread crumbs, Cheddar cheese, and paprika.

Here’s how to prepare it:

1. In a saucepan, simmer the minced clams with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice until they are heated through and the flavors are well combined.
2. In a separate pan, sauté some finely chopped onion, bell pepper, parsley, and oregano in a bit of butter until they become tender and aromatic.
3. Add a dash of hot pepper sauce and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sautéed vegetables for an extra kick of spice. Mix well.
4. Combine the sautéed vegetables with the simmered clams and stir in some breadcrumbs to help bind the dip together.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top it off with a generous layer of shredded Cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and visual appeal.
6. Bake the dip in a preheated oven until it turns golden and bubbly, creating a mouthwatering crust on top.

This alternative baked clam dip is a delightful combination of flavors, with the minced clams providing a rich and savory taste while the lemon juice adds a refreshing zing. The sautéed vegetables and spices create a robust and aromatic profile that perfectly complements the clams. Topped with melted Cheddar cheese and a sprinkling of paprika, this dip will surely be a hit at any gathering or party.

Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the spice level to suit your personal preference. Serve this alternative baked clam dip with your favorite crackers or crusty bread for a scrumptious appetizer that will impress your guests.

Personal Touch and Serving Suggestions

Adding a personal touch to your baked clam dip can make it even more special. One of the recipe authors recommends using an oven-safe crock dish for baking the dip. This not only adds a rustic charm to your presentation but also keeps the dip warm throughout your gathering. Another creative idea is to portion the dip into greased muffin cups for individual servings. This allows guests to enjoy their own little portion without having to worry about double-dipping or running out of dip.

When it comes to serving suggestions, Ritz crackers are a classic choice that pairs perfectly with the creamy and flavorful dip. The buttery, flaky crackers complement the seafood taste and provide a satisfying crunch. If you prefer a different type of cracker, you can certainly mix it up and use any mild-flavored cracker that suits your taste. Be sure to choose a cracker that won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the baked clam dip.

Conclusion

Baked Clam Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that will elevate any party or gathering. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it is sure to be a hit among seafood lovers and dip enthusiasts alike. The combination of chopped clams, onion, Parmesan cheese, and spices creates a mouthwatering delight that will have your guests coming back for more.

Whether you choose to serve it with classic Ritz crackers or get creative with your choice of mild-flavored crackers, this dip is versatile and pairs well with any type of cracker. Its delicious taste and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion, from game nights to holiday celebrations.

The success of Baked Clam Dip lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a delectable appetizer that will impress your guests. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or put your own personal spin on it, this dip is a guaranteed showstopper.

In conclusion, Baked Clam Dip is a must-try recipe that will add a flavorful twist to your appetizer spread. Its creamy, baked goodness and irresistible taste will leave your guests craving for more. So, the next time you’re planning a party or gathering, make sure to include this delicious dip on your menu. Your guests will be thanking you for this tasty treat!