Clams Casino Dip

Steps

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook bacon, stirring, until crisp and fat has rendered, about 7 minutes. Transfer bacon to paper towel–lined plate to cool. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of rendered bacon fat. Return pan to heat.

2. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over hot bacon grease and cook, stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Scrape into bowl to cool.

3. Crumble bacon. Add half of crumbled bacon and 2 tablespoons parsley to breadcrumbs; toss to combine. Set aside.

4. In large bowl, mash cream cheese with fork and mix in sour cream until well-combined. Add 2 tablespoons of reserved clam juice and juice of 1 lemon. Stir in minced clams, garlic, scallions, red pepper flakes, remaining bacon, and remaining 2 tablespoons parsley, until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Transfer dip to serving bowl and top with panko mixture. Top with a few whole leaves of parsley, to garnish, and serve with crackers, crostini, chips, and/or celery, for dipping.