Description
This creamy and savory Queso Spinach Dip combines rich cheeses with fresh spinach and a hint of garlic and onion powders. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an ideal appetizer for gatherings, served warm with tortilla chips or bread. The addition of diced tomatoes adds a fresh, vibrant touch to this crowd-pleasing dip.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
Cheeses and Cheese Alternatives
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix cream cheese and sour cream: In a large bowl, stir together the cream cheese and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add cheeses and seasonings: Incorporate the shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper into the cream cheese mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Fold in tomatoes (optional): If using, gently fold the diced tomatoes into the mixture to add a fresh burst of flavor and color.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly in a baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for uniform cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve warm: Remove from oven and serve the dip warm alongside tortilla chips or sliced bread for dipping.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen spinach; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess water before adding.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
- This dip can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
- To keep it gluten-free, ensure tortilla chips or bread are gluten-free if serving to guests with dietary restrictions.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
