If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy, and irresistible appetizer, hot spinach dip is the perfect choice. It’s creamy, packed with fresh spinach, and loaded with melted cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser at any party or a cozy snack for yourself. In this article, I’ll walk you through a simple, foolproof way to make hot spinach dip that’s bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
Why Hot Spinach Dip Is a Must-Have
Hot spinach dip combines the earthy goodness of spinach with a rich, cheesy base that’s both comforting and satisfying. Unlike cold dips, this one is baked until bubbly and golden, creating a gooey texture that’s perfect for scooping with crackers, bread, or veggies. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can make it light or indulgent, add your favorite spices, or even toss in extras like artichokes for a twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a classic list of ingredients that come together for a creamy, flavorful hot spinach dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
– 1 package dry vegetable soup mix (for seasoning)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (not the powdered kind)
– Optional: garlic, scallions, or a pinch of black pepper for extra flavor
You can also substitute or add light mayonnaise or bell peppers if you want a richer or more textured dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hot Spinach Dip
1. Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. Squeeze out all the excess water from the thawed spinach using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to avoid a watery dip.
2. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth and creamy. This creates the rich base that holds all the flavors.
3. Add Spinach and Seasoning
Break up the spinach and add it to the cream cheese mixture. Stir in the dry vegetable soup mix and mozzarella cheese. Mix everything until well combined.
4. Assemble the Dip
Spread the mixture evenly into an ovenproof dish (a pie plate or a 6×8-inch dish works well). Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the edges turn a lovely golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your hot spinach dip warm with crackers, sliced baguette, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies like carrot sticks and bell pepper slices.
Tips for the Best Hot Spinach Dip
– Squeeze out the spinach: Removing as much water as possible from the spinach prevents the dip from becoming watery and ensures a creamy texture.
– Use freshly grated cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and give a smoother, creamier dip than pre-shredded cheese.
– Make ahead: You can prepare the dip mixture a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before baking for convenience.
– Add garlic or scallions: For a flavor boost, sauté minced garlic or add chopped scallions to the mix before baking.
– Customize your seasoning: Feel free to add black pepper, paprika, or a pinch of onion powder and oregano for extra depth.
Variations to Try
– Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip: Add chopped artichoke hearts to the mix for a classic combo that’s creamy and tangy.
– Lightened-Up Version: Use light sour cream and mayonnaise to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
– Single-Serve Hot Spinach Dip: Make a personal-sized portion baked in a ramekin for a quick snack or date night treat.
Serving Suggestions
Hot spinach dip is perfect for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers. Serve it with:
– Crunchy crackers or pita chips
– Warm sliced baguette or crostini
– Fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, or bell peppers
– Pretzels or tortilla chips for a salty crunch
This dip also pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer.
Hot spinach dip is a simple yet impressive appetizer that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with the goodness of spinach. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this warm, gooey dip that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or a cozy night in. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the ease of making it your own!