New England Clam Chowder Dip

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Step 2

Cook bacon in a dry saucepan over medium heat until bacon is crispy and fat begins to foam, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove a few tablespoons of bacon to reserve for the top. Add green onions, celery, and a pinch of salt. Cook and stir until vegetables just start to soften, about 2 minutes. Drain bacon grease if desired. Turn off heat and let mixture cool.

Step 3

Place cream cheese in a large bowl. Add the bacon-veggie mixture, clams, parsley, and 4 ounces Cheddar cheese. Season with Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and Old Bay® seasoning. Mix until nicely combined. Transfer into a small baking dish; smooth out the top. Scatter the reserved bacon and remaining Cheddar over the dip. Sprinkle cayenne pepper on top to get a richer, browned top.

Step 4

Bake in the preheated oven until dip is heated through and top is browned, about 20 minutes. Heat under the broiler to further brown the top, about 1 minute more.