Tired of the same old boring appetizers? Craving something delicious, easy, and impressive for your next gathering? Look no further! This Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip recipe is the perfect solution. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the creamy goodness of spinach artichoke dip with a delightful crispy parmesan crust. Get ready to elevate your game in the appetizer department with this simple yet stunning recipe! This recipe is perfect for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and those seeking easy recipes for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Steam or sauté the spinach until wilted. Squeeze out excess water thoroughly. This step is crucial for preventing a watery dip.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and milk. Add the chopped artichoke hearts and squeezed spinach. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Create the Crust
In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the spinach artichoke mixture to an oven-safe dish (approximately 8x8 inches). Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Then, evenly distribute the Parmesan bread crumb mixture over the mozzarella.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip:
- Don't skip squeezing the spinach: Excess moisture will make your dip watery.
- Use good quality cheese: The flavor of the cheese really shines in this recipe, so opt for your favorite brands.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more garlic, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the dip ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Spinach Dip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Bacon Spinach Dip: Crumble cooked bacon into the dip for extra flavor and texture.
- Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Dip: Add sautéed mushrooms to the dip for an earthy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 18-22g Protein: 7-9g Carbohydrates: 15-18g
This Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of delicious dishes and best recipes. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor and presentation, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!