This creamy spinach dip is a fun way to enjoy veggies! Packed with creamy cheese and fresh spinach, it’s a tasty treat for any gathering.
Let’s be real, who can resist dipping crunchy chips into this cheesy goodness? I could snack on this all day—just don’t judge me if I finish the whole bowl! 😄
I love serving this dip with tortilla chips or fresh veggies. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser at parties—perfect for sharing with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Spinach: I usually use fresh spinach for its bright flavor, but frozen spinach works perfectly too. Just make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This keeps the dip from becoming watery.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These give the dip its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for sour cream while maintaining creaminess.
Cheeses: Parmesan and mozzarella are great choices, but feel free to mix it up. I love adding cream cheese for an extra creamy texture. You can also use cheddar or pepper jack for a different twist.
Artichoke Hearts: While they add a nice touch, they’re optional. If you don’t like them, you can leave them out or throw in some chopped water chestnuts for crunch.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Spinach?
The spinach is a key player in the dip, so it’s important to prep it well. Here’s how to do it:
- If using fresh, just sauté it quickly in a little olive oil until it wilts. This only takes a couple of minutes, and it boosts the flavor.
- For frozen spinach, remember to thaw and drain it completely. I usually press it in a fine mesh strainer or squeeze it in a clean dish towel to get all the moisture out.
This step ensures your dip is thick and rich, not watery and runny!
Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped (or use frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped artichoke hearts (optional, but common in spinach dip)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
For Serving:
- Baguette or sliced bread for serving
- Your choice of chips and fresh vegetables for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This spin dip recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and an additional 20-25 minutes in the oven, making it ready to enjoy in just about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dip will bake evenly and get that delicious bubbly top.
2. Prepare the Spinach:
If you’re using fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan with a little olive oil until it wilts—this only takes a few minutes! If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water to keep your dip thick and creamy. Chop it finely and set it aside.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed!
4. Fold in the Spinach:
Now, gently fold your chopped spinach (and artichoke hearts if you’re using them) into the cheese and cream mixture. Make sure everything is evenly combined, so each bite of dip has that yummy spinach flavor!
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a small ovenproof dish or a cast-iron skillet with olive oil or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
6. Bake the Spinach Dip:
Spoon the spinach mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing out the top. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be amazing!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Longhorn Steakhouse-style spinach dip while it’s warm!
8. Serve it Up:
Serve this delightful dip with slices of toasted baguette or your favorite chips and fresh veggies for dipping. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in!
Enjoy your spinach dip! 🥳
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it properly and remove as much excess moisture as possible. A good trick is to squeeze it in a clean dish towel or use a fine mesh strainer.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the spinach dip mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just transfer it to a greased dish and bake as instructed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry.
What Can I Serve with Spinach Dip?
This dip is fantastic with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It’s versatile and pairs well with anything crunchy!
