This creamy spinach dip is a favorite for many! Packed with cheesy goodness, it features tender spinach and some special seasonings. Perfect as a warm appetizer for gathering friends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Chopped Spinach: This is the star of the dish! Make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water. If fresh spinach is available, that works too; just sauté it first to get rid of moisture. I sometimes use kale for a different flavor!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess. If you prefer a lighter dip, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. I enjoy the tanginess it brings!
Sour Cream: It contributes richness. Full-fat sour cream is my go-to, but you can swap it for cottage cheese for a healthier twist.
Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) can work as alternatives.
Monterey Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a nice melt texture. Cheddar or a blend of cheeses can also work well if you want to mix it up.
How Do You Make Creamy Spinach Dip Without It Being Watery?
The key to a perfect spinach dip is to remove moisture from the spinach before mixing. Here’s how:
- After thawing frozen spinach, place it in a clean dish towel and twist tightly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- For fresh spinach, steaming or sautéing it helps release water. Cool before pressing it out.
Mix the other ingredients well, and you’ll end up with a creamy dip instead of a runny one. I like to bake it until golden to create a delicious crust on top!
Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- French bread crostini or baguette slices, for serving
- Potato chips or tortilla chips, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spinach dip will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Total time comes to about 35-40 minutes before you can enjoy this creamy treat with your favorite dippers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, let’s get that oven heated up! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your dip is mixed.
2. Mix the Spinach Dip Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, add the well-drained thawed spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese, and the minced garlic. If you like a bit of onion flavor, toss in the chopped green onions as well. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are fully combined. Now, add some salt and pepper to taste—you want those flavors to pop!
3. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grab a baking dish (about 8×8 inches works well) and spoon the spinach mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so every bite gets all that goodness.
4. Add More Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top of the dip. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust when baked!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Put your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you want the cheese on top to be melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn a beautiful golden color.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully take the dip out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. You don’t want to burn your tongue on that cheesy goodness!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your warm spinach dip with toasted French bread crostini and chips for dipping. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
This creamy, cheesy spinach dip closely resembles the one served at Longhorn Steakhouse, making it perfect for any gathering or simply for a snack at home. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you choose to use fresh spinach, you’ll want to sauté it first to release moisture. Aim for about 10 ounces of fresh spinach, and once it’s wilted, chop it before mixing it into the dip.
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach mixture a day ahead! Just combine everything and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pour it into a baking dish and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftover Spinach Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
What Can I Serve with This Spinach Dip Besides Chips?
This dip pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or even fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. For a fun twist, try serving it with pretzel bites!