Description
Creamy, indulgent spinach dip emerges as a crowd-pleasing classic that blends rich flavors and smooth textures. Packed with fresh spinach and tangy cheeses, this irresistible appetizer will draw guests closer and spark delightful conversations at any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (10 ounces / 280 grams) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (8 ounces / 226 grams) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Creamy Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Thoroughly drain the frozen spinach, eliminating excess moisture by pressing between clean kitchen towels to prevent a watery consistency.
- Create a creamy base by whisking softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until achieving a silky, uniform texture without lumps.
- Incorporate shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses into the mixture, ensuring even distribution for balanced flavor and melting potential.
- Introduce minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, gently folding these aromatics and seasonings throughout the creamy mixture.
- Delicately integrate the prepared spinach, stirring carefully to distribute the greens evenly without compressing the mixture.
- Select an appropriate oven-safe ceramic dish or cast-iron skillet that allows the dip to spread in a shallow, even layer for optimal browning.
- Position the prepared dip in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven, monitoring its transformation as the edges turn golden and the surface becomes bubbly and appetizing.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the intense heat to settle, which helps maintain the dip’s ideal serving temperature.
- Accompany the hot dip with an array of dipping options like crusty artisan bread, crisp crackers, sturdy tortilla chips, or fresh vegetable crudités for a versatile appetizer experience.
Notes
- Drain spinach thoroughly to prevent watery dip and ensure a creamy, rich texture.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream for maximum flavor and smoothness.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar or goat cheese for unique taste variations.
- Make it gluten-free by serving with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks like bell peppers and cucumber.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg