Appetizer > Seafood > Clam-Based

Bacon and Chive Clam Dip Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 can (6.5 oz) minced clams, drained
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Serving dish

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the drained minced clams, cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped fresh chives, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and smooth out the surface.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
5. Garnish with additional chopped chives and bacon bits before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving
Serving size:
- 8-10 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of minced clams, you can use canned crab meat or cooked and chopped shrimp.
- Instead of bacon, you can use cooked and crumbled sausage or ham.
- Instead of fresh chives, you can use dried chives or green onions.

Variations:
- Add a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda.
- Add chopped artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for a twist.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Drain the minced clams well to prevent the dip from becoming too watery.
- Serve with crackers, chips, or sliced vegetables.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- This dip is best served cold, but if you prefer it warm, you can microwave it for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun presentation.

Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh chives and bacon bits

Pairings:
- Serve with crackers, chips, or sliced vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Crudité platter
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dip is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the dip is too watery, add more cream cheese or sour cream to thicken it.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to refrigerate the dip promptly and do not leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Food history:
- Clam dip has been a popular party appetizer since the 1950s.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, savory, and slightly smoky from the bacon.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or snack at parties or gatherings.

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Taste: Savory, Salty, Smoky, Tangy, Creamy