This creamy spinach dip is packed with cheesy goodness and a hint of garlic, making it the perfect appetizer for any gathering. It’s warm, comforting, and oh-so-tasty!
You can serve it with crispy tortilla chips or fresh veggies—personally, I can’t resist piling it high on crunchy chips! It’s a great way to start any meal with a little fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Chopped Spinach: This is the star of the dip! If you can’t find frozen spinach, fresh spinach works too. Just sauté a couple of cups until wilted and squeeze out excess moisture.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It adds a tangy flavor. If you’re avoiding mayo, use more yogurt or sour cream to keep the creaminess.
Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened before mixing for easy blending. If lactose is an issue, try using a dairy-free cream cheese product. Both options work well!
Cheese: Mozzarella adds gooeyness, while Parmesan gives a nice sharp flavor. You can swap mozzarella for cheddar if you prefer a bolder cheese taste.
How Can I Ensure My Spinach Dip Isn’t Watery?
Wet spinach can ruin your dip’s texture, so proper preparation is essential. Here’s how to keep it creamy:
- After thawing frozen spinach, press it firmly in a clean cloth or paper towels to remove all excess moisture.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even blend; this helps lock in creaminess.
- Baking at the right temperature (350°F) allows the dip to heat through without excess moisture escaping.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious, thick, cheesy spinach dip every time!
Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (10 oz) package 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
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for slight kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful spinach dip will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 35-40 minutes from start to serving. Perfect for a quick appetizer before dinner or for a fun party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is just perfect for baking this dip to creamy perfection!
2. Drain the Spinach:
Take your thawed spinach and squeeze out all the excess moisture. Use paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth for this. Getting rid of the moisture will help to keep your dip thick and creamy.
3. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creates a creamy base for the dip!
4. Add Seasoning:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the cream mixture. Mix well until everything is combined.
5. Fold in Spinach and Cheese:
Gently fold in the drained spinach along with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure everything is evenly mixed so you get that delicious cheesy flavor in every bite!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or an oven-safe bowl. Spread it out into an even layer, making sure it fills the dish well.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dip in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want it to be hot and bubbly, with a golden brown top—this is where the magic happens!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps to avoid burns when you dig in!
9. Dive In!
Serve your warm spinach dip alongside toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or tortilla chips. It’s perfect for sharing (or not!). Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Now you’re all set to enjoy a taste of Longhorn Steakhouse right at home. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 1-2 cups. Sauté it until wilted, then make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the dip.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
You can use plain Greek yogurt or an extra 1/2 cup of sour cream for a lighter alternative. Both options will keep your dip creamy and delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm gently in an oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.