This creamy Santa Fe Spinach Dip is packed with fresh spinach, cheesy goodness, and a hint of spice. Perfect for sharing at parties or just enjoying on a cozy night in!
I love scooping it up with crunchy tortilla chips. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Give it a try, and you’ll want to make it all the time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Frozen spinach is super convenient, but if you prefer fresh, you can use about 6 cups of fresh spinach. Just sauté it until wilted before adding to the dip.
Cheese: Monterey Jack gives a nice melty texture. If you can’t find it, use Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat. I often mix cheeses for more flavor!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese for a lighter or vegan option.
Green Chilies: For a little kick, I suggest using fresh jalapeños instead, if you like it spicier. Just adjust the amount to your heat preference.
How Do I Make Sure the Spinach Dip is Creamy and Not Dry?
To achieve that luscious texture, the key is to make sure your spinach is well-drained after thawing. Excess water can make the dip watery, while not draining enough can lead to dryness. Here’s how to ensure a creamy dip:
- After thawing frozen spinach, squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Mix in cheeses while the mixture is still warm to allow for easy melting and a smooth blend.
- Don’t overbake the dip. Keep an eye on it so you remove it from the oven as soon as it’s bubbly and golden.
This way, your Santa Fe Spinach Dip will be creamy and perfect for dipping!
Cheddar’s Santa Fe Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies, drained
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a gathering or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the dip will bake evenly and become nice and bubbly.
2. Cook the Garlic and Pepper:
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the aroma. Then, toss in the diced red bell pepper and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until it’s softened.
3. Add Spinach and Chilies:
Next, stir in the thawed and drained spinach along with the diced green chilies. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors well. Once done, remove the skillet from heat.
4. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use a mixer or a sturdy spatula to mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked spinach mixture, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ground cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
6. Bake the Dip:
Transfer the mixture to a small oven-safe baking dish or a cast-iron skillet, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and lightly browned on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the dip cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm with tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy treasure!
This savory Santa Fe Spinach Dip is a crowd-pleaser, combining richness with a zesty kick. Happy dipping!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, you’ll need about 6 cups. Simply sauté it until wilted before adding it to the dip mixture. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture!
How Can I Make This Dip Healthier?
You can lighten it up by using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This maintains the creaminess while reducing the calorie count!
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dip mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time as it will be cold from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with This Dip?
Tortilla chips are great for dipping, but you can also serve it with fresh veggies like carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, or pita bread for a healthier option!