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This extra creamy hot spinach dip is the recipe that always vanishes first at parties in my house Packed with gooey cheeses and just enough bacon to make any gathering a celebration it truly is an irresistible appetizer Whether you are looking for something that can be made ahead or just want a quick melty treat for game night look no further
I fell in love with this dip after making it once for a last minute family movie night My kids were scraping the bowl and now it is the most requested snack in our house
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: for a creamy rich texture always choose full fat for best results
- Sour cream: balances the richness adds tangy flavor pick regular over light for a thicker dip
- Frozen chopped spinach: delivers hearty greens without fuss press out all the moisture for a creamy finish
- Bacon: gives a smoky crunchy accent use quality thick cut bacon and cook until crisp
- Shredded cheddar cheese: brings a sharp cheesy bite shred cheese from the block for melting
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts to gooey perfection provides stringy cheese factor use the best quality you can
- Diced onion: adds natural sweetness softens in the oven try to use a fresh white or yellow onion for milder bite
- Salt: enhances the flavors choose fine sea salt for even seasoning
- Ground black pepper: gives subtle warmth use freshly cracked for the best aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Beat the Base:
- Blend cream cheese and sour cream together in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer Continue until perfectly smooth and fluffy This ensures the base of the dip sets up with a luxurious texture no lumps
- Add the Mix Ins:
- Stir chopped spinach previously thawed and squeezed dry diced onion crisp bacon bits salt pepper shredded cheddar and half of the mozzarella into the bowl Mix thoroughly making sure the greens and bacon are evenly distributed
- Prepare and Top:
- Transfer the entire mixture into a greased baking dish using a spatula to spread it evenly Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella in a generous layer on top This final cheesy blanket ensures gooey melty goodness
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Place the dish in a preheated oven Bake for about twenty five minutes until the edges are bubbling and the top is starting to turn golden brown Watch closely so the cheese does not burn
- Rest and Serve:
- Let your spinach dip rest for five minutes after baking so it thickens slightly This makes for easier serving and richer flavor Enjoy with crackers bread veggies or your favorite dipper
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Spinach is the real hero in this dish I love how it sneaks in those greens even for picky eaters One of my best moments was serving this at my sisters birthday The entire crowd was gathered around the dish fighting for the last scoop
Storage Tips
Let leftovers cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The texture holds well after reheating in the oven or microwave For longer storage freeze the dip in portions wrapped well and reheat straight from frozen
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out bacon for sun dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms if you want to go vegetarian Any good melting cheese like Monterrey jack gouda or provolone will work if you are out of mozzarella or cheddar Fresh spinach can be used just quickly wilt and chop before mixing
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Serving Suggestions
This dip is delicious with toasted baguette rounds pretzels sturdy crackers or tortilla chips For a lighter touch offer with celery sticks carrot fingers red bell peppers or even broccoli florets It is also fabulous used as a topping for baked potatoes or as a stuffing for chicken breasts
Cultural and Historical Context
Hot spinach dip became popular in American restaurants in the 1980s often appearing in bowling alleys and chain steakhouses It is a close cousin to the classic spinach artichoke dip and represents an easy crowd pleaser that adapts to any gathering Spinach dips like this are beloved for their simple ingredients and universally appealing flavor
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent watery spinach dip?
Thaw and squeeze frozen spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture before mixing. Use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for best results.
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, wilt 1.5 pounds of fresh spinach on the stove, drain, chop, and let cool before adding to the mixture.
- → What types of cheese work best?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but try provolone, gouda, or Monterey jack for a twist. Always grate cheeses fresh for best melt.
- → Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate or freeze. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature and then bake until bubbly.
- → What are the best dippers?
Crispy crackers, crostini, pretzels, tortilla chips, and vegetable sticks like celery or bell pepper are all great choices.
- → How can I make it vegetarian?
Replace bacon bits with chopped olives, veggie crumbles, or sun dried tomatoes for a vegetarian-friendly option.