Hot Spinach Dip

A creamy and cheesy delight, this hot spinach dip is a perfect appetizer for any occasion. It’s made with fresh spinach, rich cheeses, and a blend of savory seasonings that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something comforting, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hot spinach dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The creamy texture combined with the earthy flavor of spinach and the richness of melted cheese creates a balanced and delicious dip. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is always a hit at parties. Serve it with fresh bread, crackers, or veggies, and you’ll have a dish everyone will rave about.

Ingredients

• 1 package frozen spinach (10 oz), thawed and drained
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix again to distribute the seasonings evenly.
4. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve warm with chips, crackers, or bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Spinach Dip: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the dip a spicy kick.
• Bacon Spinach Dip: Stir in some crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
• Greek Spinach Dip: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise for a lighter version, and add some chopped Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist.
• Artichoke Spinach Dip: Mix in some chopped artichoke hearts for extra richness and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

Yes, you can! If using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan until wilted, then chop it finely before adding it to the dip.

2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dip and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze this hot spinach dip?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Store the uncooked dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

4. How can I make this dip healthier?

To make this dip healthier, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise, and use reduced-fat cheese.

5. What can I serve with hot spinach dip?

Serve it with chips, pita bread, crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.

6. Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, gouda, or fontina would all work well.

7. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives and vegan sour cream to make the dip dairy-free.

8. What if my dip seems too thick?

If the dip is too thick, you can add a little milk or cream to thin it out to your desired consistency.

9. Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of the dip.

10. How do I keep my spinach dip warm during a party?

You can keep the dip warm in a slow cooker on the “warm” setting, or place it in a chafing dish to maintain the heat during serving.

Conclusion

Hot spinach dip is a classic, creamy appetizer that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with your family, this dip is an easy and delicious choice. With endless variations and simple ingredients, it’s a go-to recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.

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