Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip

From holiday gatherings to casual game nights, there’s always one dish that becomes the undeniable star of the spread. For my family and friends, that dish is, without a doubt, this Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip. Honestly, I can’t take full credit – it’s a recipe I adapted and tweaked over the years, but the sheer joy and empty bowl left behind after every serving truly makes it feel like mine. The first time I made it, I was a bit skeptical. Spinach dip? Seemed a little… ordinary. But one bite, and all doubts vanished. The combination of creamy cheeses, perfectly wilted spinach, and a hint of garlic and spice is simply irresistible. It’s rich, decadent, and yet surprisingly easy to make. Every time I bring it to a party, I’m immediately bombarded with requests for the recipe. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. Serve it hot and bubbly straight from the oven, or let it cool slightly for a thicker, spreadable dip. Either way, paired with crusty bread, crisp vegetables, or sturdy tortilla chips, this Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, make this once, and you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my recipe repertoire – and why it’s about to become one in yours too.

Ingredients

This recipe for Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip is all about layering flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this crowd-pleasing appetizer:

• 10 ounces Frozen Spinach, Thawed and Squeezed Dry: The star of the show, spinach provides both flavor and a healthy element to this rich dip. Frozen spinach is key for convenience and texture. Make sure to thoroughly thaw it and, most importantly, squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery dip. Excess moisture will dilute the flavors and prevent the dip from achieving that desired creamy consistency. Squeezing it dry ensures a thick and flavorful dip.
• 8 ounces Cream Cheese, Softened: Cream cheese forms the luxurious, creamy base of this dip. Using softened cream cheese is essential for smooth blending and prevents lumps in your final product. Take your cream cheese out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes prior to starting the recipe to allow it to soften properly. You can also speed up the process by microwaving it in short 10-15 second intervals, being careful not to melt it. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but you can use reduced-fat cream cheese if you prefer, though it might slightly alter the overall richness.
• 1 cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds another layer of creaminess and richness, contributing to the dip’s overall luscious texture. Use a good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor. While light mayonnaise can be substituted, full-fat mayonnaise will provide a richer and more decadent flavor. The slight tanginess of mayonnaise also balances the richness of the cheeses.
• 1 cup Sour Cream: Sour cream introduces a delightful tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and mayonnaise, adding complexity to the flavor profile. Full-fat sour cream will provide the best flavor and texture, but reduced-fat sour cream can be used as a lighter alternative. The acidity in sour cream also helps to brighten the overall taste of the dip.
• 1 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty, and savory depth to the dip. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for the best flavor and melting quality. Pre-shredded Parmesan can be used for convenience, but it often contains cellulose which can hinder melting and alter the texture slightly. The sharpness of Parmesan cheese complements the other cheeses and enhances the overall umami flavor.
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese adds a mild, milky flavor and, most importantly, contributes to the wonderful cheesy melt and stringy texture that everyone loves in a spinach dip. Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella works well for this recipe. You can also use whole-milk mozzarella for an even richer and meltier texture. The mildness of mozzarella prevents it from overpowering the other flavors while providing that essential cheesy pull.
• 1/2 cup Chopped Water Chestnuts, Drained: Water chestnuts add a delightful and unexpected crunch to the creamy dip. Their subtle nutty flavor and crispy texture provide a pleasant contrast to the smooth cheeses and spinach. Make sure to drain them well before chopping and adding them to the dip. If you can’t find water chestnuts or prefer not to use them, you can omit them, but they do contribute a unique textural element.
• 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions: Green onions, also known as scallions, provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dip. Use both the white and green parts of the green onions for a more complex flavor. They add a subtle sharpness that balances the richness of the dip and contribute a touch of freshness.
• 2 cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is a crucial flavor enhancer in this spinach dip. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the most pungent and aromatic flavor. Garlic powder can be used as a substitute in a pinch, but fresh garlic provides a much more robust and nuanced flavor. Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference – you can add more if you love a strong garlic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): Red pepper flakes add a subtle hint of heat that elevates the flavor profile of the dip without making it overly spicy. This is optional, but a small amount of red pepper flakes adds a pleasant warmth and complexity. If you prefer a spicier dip, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For those who are sensitive to spice, you can omit them entirely.
• Salt and Black Pepper to Taste: Seasoning is key to bringing all the flavors together. Salt enhances the savory flavors of the cheeses and spinach, while black pepper adds a touch of warmth and spice. Season the dip generously with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed after mixing all the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the preparation process to ensure the flavors are balanced and well-developed.

Instructions

Creating this Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a guaranteed crowd-pleasing appetizer:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking and melting of the cheese. While the oven preheats, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. Greasing the dish prevents the dip from sticking and makes for easier serving and cleanup. You can use cooking spray or a bit of butter to grease the dish.
2. Combine Cream Cheese and Mayonnaise: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Using an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer) or a sturdy whisk, beat the cream cheese and mayonnaise together until they are smooth and completely combined. This creates the creamy base for the dip. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining for a perfectly smooth texture.
3. Incorporate Sour Cream and Spices: Add the sour cream, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Continue to mix until everything is well incorporated and the mixture is smooth and homogenous. The sour cream adds tanginess, the garlic provides savory depth, and the red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth.
4. Stir in Cheeses and Water Chestnuts: Add the shredded Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped water chestnuts to the bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir everything together until the cheeses and water chestnuts are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture. Ensure the cheeses are well incorporated to promote even melting and cheesy goodness throughout the dip.
5. Fold in Spinach and Green Onions: Add the thawed and squeezed dry spinach and chopped green onions to the bowl. Gently fold the spinach and green onions into the cheese mixture until they are evenly dispersed. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as overmixing can make the spinach stringy. The goal is to distribute the spinach and green onions throughout the dip without deflating the creamy texture.
6. Season to Taste: Season the spinach and cheese mixture generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that cheese is already salty, so start with a moderate amount of salt and add more to taste as needed. Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Proper seasoning is crucial to enhance all the flavors and create a well-balanced dip.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake: Pour the prepared spinach and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. 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 cheese is melted and lightly golden brown on top. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the dip and remove it when it reaches the desired level of browning and bubbling.
8. Serve Hot: Once baked, carefully remove the Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip from the oven. Let it cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and bubbly with your favorite dippers, such as crusty bread, tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for visual appeal, if desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes.)

Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 cup

Servings Per Recipe: Approximately 24 servings

Estimated Nutritional Information Per Serving (approximately 1/4 cup):

• Calories: 180-220 kcal
• Fat: 15-19g
• Cholesterol: 40-50mg

Important Note: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used. This recipe is relatively high in fat and calories due to the cheese and mayonnaise content. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

This Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip is quick to assemble, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a delicious appetizer in a hurry.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (including thawing and squeezing spinach, chopping vegetables, and mixing ingredients)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-45 minutes

This timeframe allows for easy preparation even on busy days, delivering a flavorful and impressive appetizer without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

The versatility of Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip is one of its greatest strengths. It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dippers and can be served in numerous ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Bread:
  • Crusty Baguette Slices: Toasted or fresh baguette slices are a classic and sturdy choice for scooping up the dip.
  • Pita Bread: Warm pita bread, cut into wedges, offers a soft and flavorful option.
  • Sourdough Bread: Sliced sourdough bread, toasted or grilled, provides a tangy and hearty base.
  • Garlic Bread: Elevate the experience by serving with homemade or store-bought garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Breadsticks: Crispy breadsticks offer a fun and easy-to-eat option, especially for parties.
• Vegetables (Crudités):
  • Carrot Sticks: Crisp and slightly sweet carrot sticks provide a healthy and colorful option.
  • Celery Sticks: Celery sticks offer a refreshing crunch and a mild flavor that complements the dip.
  • Cucumber Slices: Cool and refreshing cucumber slices are a light and hydrating choice.
  • Bell Pepper Strips (Red, Yellow, Orange): Sweet and colorful bell pepper strips add vibrancy and flavor.
  • Broccoli Florets (Blanched or Raw): Blanched or raw broccoli florets offer a slightly bitter and earthy flavor.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy cherry tomatoes can be served whole or halved.
• Chips and Crackers:
  • Tortilla Chips: Sturdy tortilla chips are a classic pairing and perfect for scooping up generous amounts of dip.
  • Pita Chips: Baked pita chips offer a crispy and flavorful alternative to tortilla chips.
  • Crackers (Water Crackers, Wheat Crackers, Ritz Crackers): Choose a variety of crackers for different textures and flavors.
  • Vegetable Chips: Consider using vegetable chips like sweet potato chips or beet chips for a healthier and more unique option.
• Other Serving Ideas:
  • Crostini: Toasted baguette slices brushed with olive oil and garlic make elegant crostini for serving with the dip.
  • Potato Skins: Serve the dip inside baked potato skins for a heartier appetizer.
  • Stuffed Celery Sticks: Fill celery sticks with the cooled spinach and cheese dip for a lighter bite.
  • Mini Phyllo Cups: Bake the dip in mini phyllo cups for individual and elegant appetizers.
  • Alongside a Charcuterie Board: Incorporate the spinach dip into a charcuterie board as a creamy and flavorful element.

Additional Tips for the Best Spinach and Cheese Dip

To ensure your Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip is absolutely perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Squeeze Spinach Thoroughly: This cannot be emphasized enough! Properly squeezing out all excess moisture from the thawed spinach is crucial for preventing a watery dip. Use your hands, a clean kitchen towel, or even a cheesecloth to squeeze the spinach until it is as dry as possible. This step directly impacts the texture and flavor concentration of your dip.
2. Don’t Overbake: Bake the dip just until it is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown. Overbaking can make the dip dry and the cheese tough. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
3. Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: Seasoning is subjective. Taste the dip before baking and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your preference. Remember that the cheese is already salty, so season gradually and taste as you go. You can also add other spices like onion powder, garlic powder (if you want a stronger garlic flavor), or a pinch of nutmeg for added complexity.
4. Make it Ahead of Time: You can prepare the spinach and cheese dip mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients as instructed, transfer it to the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off and bake as directed. This is a great time-saving tip for party planning.
5. Customize with Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to customize the flavor profile. Try adding Gruyere for a nutty and complex flavor, Fontina for extra meltiness, or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamy taste. You can also add a touch of sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor. Just ensure that the cheeses you choose melt well for the best texture.

FAQ Section: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Ultra Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip:

Q1: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

A: While frozen spinach is recommended for convenience and texture in this recipe, you can use fresh spinach. You’ll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté the fresh spinach in a pan with a little olive oil and garlic until it wilts down significantly. Then, drain it well in a colander and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible before chopping it and adding it to the dip. Keep in mind that fresh spinach will have a slightly different texture and flavor compared to frozen spinach in the final dip.

Q2: Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or on high for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the dip is heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, especially on high heat. Slow cooker spinach dip will be incredibly creamy and perfect for keeping warm throughout a party.

Q3: Can I freeze spinach and cheese dip?

A: Freezing spinach and cheese dip is not highly recommended. Dairy-based dips like this can sometimes become grainy or separate in texture after thawing. However, if you must freeze it, allow the dip to cool completely after baking, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 1-2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave. Be aware that the texture might be slightly altered after freezing and thawing.

Q4: What can I do if my spinach dip is too thick?

A: If your spinach dip is too thick, you can thin it out slightly by adding a tablespoon or two of milk or cream. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as you don’t want to make the dip too thin. You can also add a bit more sour cream or mayonnaise for creaminess while thinning it slightly.

Q5: Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to this dip?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. You can customize it by adding other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), or caramelized onions. You can also add protein like cooked and crumbled bacon or shredded cooked chicken. For a spicier kick, you can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own signature spinach and cheese dip!

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