This hot spinach spread is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! It’s the perfect dip to enjoy with crispy pita chips, making every bite a delicious treat.
If you’re like me, you can’t resist a warm, cheesy dip. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for a snack or a party. Just mix, bake, and serve—everyone will love it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Frozen chopped spinach is great for this recipe! Just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess water. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use fresh spinach; just sauté it until wilted before mixing.
Cream Cheese: This adds tanginess and creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead. They offer a similar texture but with more protein.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: Both contribute to the creamy texture. You can substitute Greek yogurt again here for a healthier twist. For a vegan option, try using cashew cream or a plant-based mayo and sour cream.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices! If you want a stronger flavor, try using feta or goat cheese instead. They’ll give the dip a unique twist, while still melting nicely.
Tomatoes: Fresh, diced tomatoes add juiciness. Canned tomatoes work too; just make sure they’re drained well. You can also use sun-dried tomatoes for an intense flavor.
Seasoning: For an extra kick, feel free to increase the crushed red pepper flakes or even add a dash of hot sauce to the mix!
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese Blended Smoothly?
Mixing the cream cheese with sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth creates a lovely base for your dip. Make sure the cream cheese is very soft—if you forget to set it out ahead of time, a quick zap in the microwave (15-20 seconds) will help.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for a fluffier texture.
- Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are mixed well.
- For a chunky texture, mix in the spinach and other ingredients by hand; just fold them gently.
How to Make Hot Spinach Spread with Pita Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Spinach Spread:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- Pita chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you can whip up this delicious hot spinach spread in under an hour. Perfect for a tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your delicious spread.
2. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spoon or a mixer to blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Spinach and Seasonings:
Now, stir in the drained spinach. Then add the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. Mix everything until well combined and every ingredient is evenly dispersed.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the spinach mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
5. Bake It Up:
Pop the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve your hot spinach spread warm with pita chips for a delightful dipping experience. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh spinach, you’ll need about 1-1.5 cups of cooked spinach. Just sauté the spinach in a pan with a small amount of olive oil until wilted, then drain and chop it before adding it to the mixture.
How Can I Make This Spinach Spread Lighter?
To lighten up the recipe, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the sour cream and mayonnaise. You can also use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella to cut down on calories while still keeping it delicious!
What Are Some Good Substitutes for Pita Chips?
If you don’t have pita chips, you can use tortilla chips, crackers, or even sliced baguette as dippers. Veggies like carrot sticks or cucumber slices also make a great, healthier alternative!
Can I Make This Spinach Spread Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach mixture a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming from the fridge.
