This easy spinach dip is based on my recipe for spinach artichoke dip. I made it one day when I realized I was out of artichokes, and it still turned out delicious! The absence of artichokes actually lets the rich flavors of spinach take center stage. This dip is a classic choice when you’re seeking a simpler — but just as delicious — appetizer!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best spinach dip ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Spinach – You can use 10 ounces of frozen spinach or 1 pound of fresh chopped spinach. If using fresh, blanch it in simmering water for 30-45 seconds, cool in ice water, and drain before using to make the dip. (Alternatively, you can use leftover sauteed spinach if you have it on hand.) Sour Cream & Mayo – This recipe for spinach dip uses equal parts sour cream and mayonnaise, but you can use a bit more of one or the other if you like one of them more. I use homemade mayonnaise, but store bought works fine. If you like, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to create a lighter version without compromising on taste and creaminess. Cream Cheese – You can use regular or light. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature, which makes it easier to mix in with the other ingredients. Grated Parmesan Cheese – You can also try Romano cheese, Asiago cheese, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Garlic – I use fresh minced garlic, but 1 teaspoon jarred garlic or 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used for convenience. Mozzarella Cheese – Buy it shredded or shred it fresh for this spinach dip recipe. Other shredded cheeses that work well for melting on top include cheddar, Gruyère, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of these cheeses. Sea Salt & Black Pepper
How To Make Spinach Dip
This section shows how to make hot spinach dip, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
Spinach Dip Variations
Want to change it up? Here are some additions and changes you can make to this spinach dip:
Bacon – Add 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon to the mixing bowl. For this, you can cook bacon in the oven, quickly microwave bacon, make air fryer bacon, or take a shortcut with store-bought bacon bits. Sun Dried Tomatoes – Add 1/4 cup of sun dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Mushrooms – If you are a spinach and mushroom fan, add 1/2 cup of sauteed mushrooms. Artichokes – Make my spinach artichoke recipe here. Cold – Mix the ingredients in the bowl, transfer to a bowl or container, and skip the cheese on top. Chill in the fridge and enjoy cold.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat: You can reheat spinach dip in the microwave or bake it at 350 degrees F, until warm. It’s also delicious cold! Sometimes I repurpose the leftovers for my spinach stuffed chicken or stuffed salmon. Freeze: The main components of this dish — mayonnaise and sour cream — don’t freeze well, so I generally don’t recommend freezing it. If you really want to, you can freeze it (for up to 3 months), but there’s a chance it might turn out watery or grainy upon thawing. If you decide to give it a try, thaw in the fridge overnight, stir well, and then add some additional fresh mayo and sour cream before reheating, which will help restore the creamy spinach dip texture.
What To Serve With Spinach Dip Recipes
This easy spinach dip makes the perfect appetizer for any occasion! Pita chips, sliced baguette, sourdough bread, or a bread bowl are popular serving options, but I prefer these healthier choices:
Chips – My fave are homemade tortilla chips! Any chips that fit your lifestyle will work, though. You can even opt for zucchini chips, kale chips, or other veggie chips! Vegetables – Fresh carrot sticks, celery, broccoli, or bell peppers all make yummy, healthy dippers for both cold or hot spinach dip recipes. Crackers – Scoop it with your favorite crackers! Try flax seed crackers or cheese crackers for clean-ingredient choices. Main Dish – An appetizer always needs a main course. Serve stuffed tomatoes afterwards for a complete meal. Appetizer Spread – Make a whole spread such as air fryer steak bites and stuffed mushroom appetizers or make any of my healthy appetizers.
More Hot Dip Recipes
If you’re craving more or want to make a whole spread of dips, take your appetizer game to the next level with these creamy, cheesy hot dip recipes: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email.
