This creamy spinach dip is loaded with fresh spinach, cheese, and just the right spices. Perfect for sharing, it’s a warm treat that everyone loves!
I could eat this dip all day with crispy chips! It’s super easy to make and adds a fun twist to any gathering—your friends will be asking for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: I recommend using frozen chopped spinach for convenience. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well; you want to avoid any excess water. If you have fresh spinach, you can use that too, just sauté it until wilted before adding.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the dip. If you need a healthier option, consider Greek yogurt as a substitute. It gives a nice tang and is lower in fat!
Mayonnaise: I like using mayonnaise for its richness. If you’re looking for fewer calories, you can use light mayonnaise or a blend of Greek yogurt and mayo for a lighter version.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture, but you can use low-fat cream cheese if desired. It might not be as creamy, but it still works!
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for melting. If you’re a cheese lover, try adding other kinds like cheddar for a different taste. For a stronger flavor, swap mozzarella with Gruyère.
How Do I Get the Dip Extra Creamy and Flavorful?
A creamy spinach dip is all about the blending and baking techniques. For a smooth blend, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature; it mixes better. Here’s how to get that extra creaminess:
- Mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream cheese until fully combined before adding other ingredients.
- Stir in the seasonings and cheeses gently to keep the dip airy.
Baking helps meld the flavors together, so don’t skip this step! Ensure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
For serving, I love to present it with toasted bread or pita chips – they add that perfect crunch!
Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced baguette or toasted bread slices for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll spend around 35-40 minutes to enjoy this delicious spinach dip!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and hot for baking the dip.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed!
3. Add Spinach and Seasoning:
Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Stir in the thawed and drained spinach along with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Incorporate the Cheeses:
Fold in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese into the mixture. This will make the dip cheesy and delicious. Save the rest of the cheese for the topping!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the creamy mixture into a shallow oven-safe baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
6. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese all over the top of the dip. This is what will make it creamy and nice when baked.
7. Bake the Dip:
Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve and enjoy!
9. Enjoy with Bread:
Serve the warm dip with toasted baguette slices or your favorite type of crackers. Dive in and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness just like at Longhorn Steakhouse!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh spinach, you’ll want to sauté it until wilted and then chop it before adding it to the dip. This will give you the same delicious flavor!
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preferred spice level.
How Do I Store Leftover Spinach Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just mix everything together and refrigerate it in the baking dish. When you’re ready, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to heating time if it’s cold from the fridge.