Tired of the same old party snacks? Craving a burst of fresh, briny flavor that's both easy to make and utterly irresistible? Then look no further! This Clams Casino Dip recipe is your answer – a delightful twist on the classic appetizer, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, blending the savory richness of clams with a touch of smoky bacon and a hint of spicy pepper, all nestled in a creamy, cheesy embrace. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this surprisingly simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound littleneck clams, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Crackers, toasted baguette slices, or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions:
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Prep the Clams: If using fresh clams, thoroughly rinse them under cold water and chop them into bite-sized pieces. You can also use canned clams, ensuring they are well-drained.
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Sauté the Veggies: In a medium skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and green bell pepper until softened, about 3-5 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the dip.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped clams, crumbled bacon, sautéed vegetables, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. The heat from the vegetables will help melt the cheese slightly, creating a creamier texture.
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Bake (Optional): For an extra layer of warmth and melted cheese, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. This step is entirely optional, but it's a great way to enhance the flavors and create a warm, comforting dip.
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Serve: Serve your delicious Clams Casino Dip immediately with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or tortilla chips.
Cooking Tips for the Best Clams Casino Dip:
- Bacon, Bacon, Bacon: Don't skimp on the bacon! The crispy bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor and textural contrast to the creamy dip.
- Fresh Herbs: For an even more vibrant flavor, use fresh parsley instead of dried.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. Start with a small amount and add more if desired.
- Make it Ahead: This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Clams Casino Dip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Creamy Clams Casino Dip: For a richer, creamier dip, add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche.
- Gourmet Clams Casino Dip: Incorporate finely chopped roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an elevated flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-7g
This Clams Casino Dip is a quick dinner idea or a simple yet impressive appetizer for any occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe and the delicious homemade cooking experience! It's a perfect example of how simple, healthy meals can be both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. This recipe is among the best recipes for a reason!