Are you looking for a delicious and easy appetizer or side dish that will impress your guests? Look no further than this Spinach Dip Houston's recipe! This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. It's surprisingly simple to make, using readily available ingredients, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade comfort food!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 4 cups of delicious spinach dip.
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly bubbly and warm dip.
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Prep the spinach: Thoroughly thaw your frozen spinach. Once thawed, squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial for preventing a watery dip. You can use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth for best results.
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything together until it's smooth and well combined.
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Bake to perfection: Pour the mixture into an oven-safe dish (a small casserole dish or an 8x8 inch baking pan works well). Sprinkle the top generously with mozzarella cheese.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
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Serve and enjoy: Let the dip cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this warm, cheesy, and delicious spinach dip with your favorite tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
Tips for the Best Spinach Dip:
- Don't skip squeezing the spinach: Excess water will make your dip watery. Take the time to really squeeze out all the moisture.
- Soften the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother texture.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Add some heat: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations:
- Artichoke Spinach Dip: Add one can (14 ounces) of drained and chopped artichoke hearts to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Bacon Spinach Dip: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before baking for a smoky, salty addition.
- Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Dip: Sauté some sliced mushrooms before adding them to the dip for an earthy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
This delicious Spinach Dip Houston's recipe is perfect for any occasion. It's a simple yet impressive dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and experience the magic! Enjoy your homemade deliciousness!