Spinach dip
Spinach dip is a classic, creamy delight that brings together fresh spinach, tangy sour cream, and a little bit of cheesy goodness. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with…
Tip: save now, cook later.Spinach dip is a classic, creamy delight that brings together fresh spinach, tangy sour cream, and a little bit of cheesy goodness. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with a crowd. The nice mix of creamy texture and green spinach makes it a favorite at parties and family gatherings.
I love how easy it is to make spinach dip, and it always feels like a small celebration when I scoop it up with crunchy crackers or fresh veggies. I usually add a touch of garlic or some onion to give it a little extra kick that everyone seems to enjoy. It’s one of those dishes that’s simple but makes people smile every time.
My favorite way to serve spinach dip is right in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It’s fun, extra tasty, and makes the whole snack feel special. Whether you’re having friends over or just want a cozy night snack, spinach dip is the kind of recipe that brings people together and keeps things happy and relaxed around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Frozen chopped spinach is convenient and easy to use. Just be sure to squeeze out all excess water or your dip will turn watery. Fresh spinach can work but cook and drain it well.
Dairy Base: Cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise give the dip its creamy, rich texture. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter option, and light mayo works too.
Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice sharpness and mozzarella or Monterey Jack brings gooey meltiness. Feel free to swap mozzarella for cheddar or a blend of cheeses you like.
Vegetables & Flavor: Red bell pepper and green onions add crunch and mild flavor. Garlic and onion powder enhance the taste without overpowering. Fresh minced garlic is great, but use sparingly.
How Do You Prevent Spinach Dip from Being Watery?
Moisture from spinach is the main cause of watery dip. Here’s how to avoid that:
- After thawing frozen spinach, place it in a clean towel and squeeze tightly to remove all liquid.
- Repeat squeezing a few times to make sure it’s dry.
- If using fresh spinach, cook it briefly until wilted, then squeeze out water the same way.
- Mix all ingredients gently to keep the dip thick but well combined.
- Chill the dip before serving to help it firm up and blend flavors.
Taking these simple steps makes your spinach dip creamy and perfect, without any watery sogginess.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all the ingredients easily without spilling.
- Spoon or spatula – for folding and mixing the dip to keep it creamy and smooth.
- Kitchen towel or cheesecloth – perfect for squeezing out excess water from spinach.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right balance of ingredients every time.
- Serving bowl – to present your dip nicely with chips or veggies around it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky and salty crunch that complements the creamy dip.
- Mix in artichoke hearts for a classic spinach-artichoke dip twist with extra tang and texture.
- Stir in some shredded pepper jack cheese and a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Mix fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresher, brighter flavor, especially in spring and summer.
How to Make Classic Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This spinach dip recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Then, you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend and the dip to thicken up. So, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes total from start to serving time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
Thaw the frozen chopped spinach completely. Place it inside a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze it firmly to remove as much water as possible. This helps keep your dip thick and creamy instead of watery.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat or stir them together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
3. Add Cheese and Veggies:
Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until everything is well blended. Then, add the finely chopped red bell pepper and green onions. Mix well so all the flavors start coming together.
4. Combine with Spinach and Seasonings:
Fold the well-drained spinach into your creamy mixture. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If you like a little extra zing, squeeze in some lemon juice and mix thoroughly.
5. Chill and Serve:
Transfer the dip to a nice serving bowl. Cover it and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This lets the flavors meld and the dip become firmer. Serve the spinach dip cold or at room temperature with crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh veggie sticks like carrot, celery, and bell pepper.
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can! Just sauté fresh spinach until wilted, then drain and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the dip. This helps keep the dip from becoming watery.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Spinach Dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, and you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
Can I Make Spinach Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip a few hours or even a day before your event. Just keep it covered and refrigerated to let the flavors meld beautifully.
What Are Some Good Dippers for Spinach Dip?
Classic options include pita chips, tortilla chips, and vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. You can also serve it in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun presentation!
