Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of irresistible Cheesy Spinach Dip. It’s easier than you might think!

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Spinach: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is preheating, ensure your frozen spinach is completely thawed. The best way to thaw frozen spinach is to place it in a colander and run it under cool water. Once thawed, it is absolutely crucial to squeeze out as much excess water as possible. You can do this by pressing the spinach against the sides of the colander or using your hands to squeeze it firmly. Excess water will result in a watery dip, so don’t skip this step! Set the squeezed spinach aside.
2. Combine Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Using an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer) or a sturdy whisk, beat the cream cheese and sour cream together until they are smooth and completely combined. This is important to ensure a creamy, lump-free dip. If using a hand mixer, start on low speed and gradually increase to medium speed to avoid splattering.
3. Incorporate Mayonnaise and Spices: Add the mayonnaise, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the cream cheese and sour cream mixture. Continue to mix everything together until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The garlic should be finely minced to ensure it blends smoothly into the dip and doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
4. Add Cheeses and Spinach: Now it’s time to add the cheeses and the star ingredient, spinach! Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Mix until the cheeses are evenly incorporated into the creamy base. Finally, add the squeezed and thawed spinach to the bowl. Gently fold the spinach into the cheese mixture until it is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as you just want to incorporate the spinach without making the dip too dense.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet with cooking spray or a little butter. Transfer the spinach dip mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. You can use a spatula to smooth the top of the dip for a more even bake.
6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the top is lightly golden brown. The cheese should be melted and gooey, and the dip should be heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Keep an eye on the dip towards the end of the baking time to prevent the top from browning too much. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil.
7. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the spinach dip from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dip to cool slightly and the flavors to meld together even further. Serve hot and bubbly with your favorite crackers, vegetables, or bread for dipping. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a pinch of fresh parsley, if desired, for a visual appeal.