This classic clam dip is the ultimate party appetizer, featuring a rich and creamy base loaded with minced clams, sharp cheddar, and savory seasonings. The mixture is served piping hot inside a hollowed-out round loaf of bread, which acts as both a vessel and a serving bowl. The flavors are bold and briny, balanced by the creaminess of the cheese and the kick of Worcestershire sauce. It’s perfect for game day gatherings, holiday parties, or a cozy night in. Serve with crackers or slices of the reserved bread for dipping.
Gary’S Clam Dip
Description
This classic clam dip is the ultimate party appetizer, featuring a rich and creamy base loaded with minced clams, sharp cheddar, and savory seasonings. The mixture is served piping hot inside a hollowed-out round loaf of bread, which acts as both a vessel and a serving bowl. The flavors are bold and briny, balanced by the creaminess of the cheese and the kick of Worcestershire sauce. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for game day gatherings, holiday parties, or a cozy night in. Serve with crackers or slices of the reserved bread for dipping.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 250ðF (120ðC).
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Drain the canned clams, reserving 1/2 cup of the liquid.
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In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, minced clams, chopped onion, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper.
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Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture until smooth and well combined. Do not use a food processor.
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Slice the top off the large round loaf of bread to create a lid.
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Hollow out the inside of the bread loaf, leaving a shell about 1/2 inch thick. Save the removed bread for dipping or croutons.
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Fill the hollowed-out bread loaf with the clam dip mixture.
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Replace the bread top on the loaf.
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Wrap the entire loaf tightly in aluminum foil.
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Place the wrapped loaf in the oven and bake for 3 hours.
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Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then unwrap and serve warm with crackers or sliced baguette.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 8.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 539.4mg23%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.4g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 0.6g
- Protein 0.3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Do not use a food processor for mixing, as it can make the cheese gluey and difficult to spread. An electric hand mixer or stand mixer works best.
The low-and-slow baking time (3 hours at 250ðF) allows the flavors to meld without burning the bread or curdling the cheese.
You can substitute cheddar cheese or cream cheese variations based on preference, but cream cheese provides the classic creamy texture.
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Serve with sturdy crackers, pretzels, or slices of the reserved bread for scooping.
