This creamy spinach dip is a hit, packed with fresh spinach and cheesy goodness! It’s perfect for sharing with friends and makes a great appetizer for any gathering.
I love serving it with crispy tortilla chips—there’s just something about that combo! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up; you’ll have everyone asking for the recipe in no time! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: A must for flavor when sautéing the onions. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use olive oil instead, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Spinach: Frozen spinach works great here as it’s pre-washed and chopped. Fresh spinach can be used instead; just make sure to cook it down well to remove excess water.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy taste.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: These add creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for both if you’d prefer a healthier alternative.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a crowd favorite, but feel free to substitute it with cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor. Parmesan is key for that Italian touch!
Bacon: Optional but adds a nice crunch and flavor. For a vegetarian version, omit this or substitute with crispy fried onions or mushrooms.
How Do I Make Sure My Spinach Dip Is Creamy and Not Dry?
The key to maintaining a creamy texture is properly managing the moisture in your spinach. When using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to your mix. Fresh spinach should be cooked down and drained well too. This prevents the dip from becoming watery during baking.
- After sautéing the spinach, let it cool a bit before mixing to help any leftover moisture evaporate.
- Mix all your creamy ingredients together until smooth and consistent. This equal distribution ensures the dip stays creamy as it bakes.
Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained well
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sliced toasted baguette or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spinach dip will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes from start to enjoying a cheesy, warm dip!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and ready for your delicious dip when you’re done prepping!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it’s softened and slightly translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. After that, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma!
3. Add the Spinach:
Next, stir in the thawed and well-drained chopped spinach. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes. This helps remove any leftover water and really blends the flavors. Once done, take the skillet off the heat.
4. Mix the Creamy Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a whisk or spatula to mix it all until it’s smooth. You want this to be nice and creamy!
5. Combine Everything Together:
Now, add the sautéed spinach mixture to the creamy mix, along with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything until well combined, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer and Top:
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and smooth the top. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. If you’re feeling extra, add the crumbled bacon for a delicious touch!
7. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the dip to be hot and bubbly, and the cheese on top should be golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s bubbly and gooey, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve hot with those lovely toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers. Time to dig in and enjoy your homemade Longhorn Steakhouse-style Spinach Dip!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just make sure to wash, chop, and sauté it until wilted and any excess moisture is cooked out. About 1 pound of fresh spinach should be equivalent to the 10 ounces of frozen spinach.
What Can I Substitute for the Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt. This will give you a similar creamy texture while cutting down on fat content a bit!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip ahead by combining all ingredients and storing it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. It should be good for up to 2 days in the fridge, but be sure to cover it tightly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover spinach dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore its creamy consistency if needed.