Spinach Dip
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? This spinach dip is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in, it combines fresh spinach, savory cheeses, and a mix of spices for a delicious treat. Serve it warm with an assortment of dippers, and watch it disappear in no time!
Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the dip):
– Calories: 220
– Protein: 7g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 6g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
6. Add the sautéed spinach and garlic to the cheese mixture.
7. Season with onion powder, salt, and pepper.
8. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
9. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option. Additionally, use different cheese varieties, such as cheddar or feta, to add unique flavors to the dip.
Serving and Pairings
This spinach dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, pita bread, fresh vegetables like carrots and cucumbers, or toasted baguette slices for a delightful crunch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through. This dip can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the spinach can make it soggy.
- Not allowing cream cheese to soften can lead to lumps.
- Skipping seasoning will result in bland flavors.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect the overall taste.
- Not mixing thoroughly may leave some ingredients unmixed.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, mix in some cooked bacon or artichokes.
- Let the dip cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
- Experiment with spices like cayenne or smoked paprika.
- Make it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
FAQs
Can I make spinach dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake before serving.
Is spinach dip healthy?
While it contains cheese and cream, using lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt can make it healthier.
Can I freeze spinach dip?
Yes, spinach dip can be frozen. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with spinach dip?
Serve it with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetable sticks for a delicious appetizer.
How do I make spinach dip spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This spinach dip is a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to make and delightful to eat. Whether for a gathering or a cozy night at home, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Spinach Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
- Add the sautéed spinach and garlic to the cheese mixture.
- Season with onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
