This creamy spinach dip is a restaurant favorite that’s super easy to make at home! It’s packed with spinach, cream cheese, and a blend of cheeses that makes every bite rich and tasty.
Honestly, this dip is perfect for sharing (or not, I won’t judge!). I love serving it with crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch. It’s a hit at every gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Chopped Spinach: I love using frozen spinach because it’s convenient and stays fresh longer. If you have fresh spinach, you can use about 10 oz. Just sauté it to wilt before adding it to the mix.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These two add creaminess to the dip. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well in place of sour cream, and you can reduce the mayonnaise.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is essential for that rich texture. You can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat option.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are my favorites for this dip, but you could also use cheddar or a mix of your favorite cheeses. Just remember, the flavor will change slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice punch. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work too, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure my Dip is Creamy and Smooth?
Getting the right texture in your spinach dip is key! Start by making sure your cream cheese is truly softened; leaving it out for about 30 minutes works wonders. Then, when combining the ingredients, use a hand mixer or spoon to blend everything well.
- Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise first until fully smooth.
- Gradually stir in the cheeses and seasonings to keep it creamy.
- Be gentle when folding in spinach and any other additions, to keep the mix light and fluffy.
How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped artichoke hearts (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious spinach dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then needs to bake for 20-25 minutes. So, in total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to get this amazing appetizer ready to serve. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures our dip will bake evenly and come out nice and bubbly!
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a mixing spoon or a hand mixer to blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is going to be the base of your delicious dip!
3. Add the Flavor:
Now it’s time to stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them for a bit of heat. Mix everything until well combined—this is where the dip gets its rich flavor!
4. Incorporate the Spinach and Artichokes:
Carefully add the drained chopped spinach and the chopped artichoke hearts (if you’re including them). Gently fold these into the cheesy mixture so everything is evenly distributed without losing that creamy texture.
5. Bake the Dip:
Transfer your mixture into an oven-safe baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, place it in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the dip out of the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. This helps avoid burning your mouth when you dive in! Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or tortilla chips for a fantastic dipping experience.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy spinach dip that closely matches the rich, baked dip served at Longhorn Steakhouse. It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Yes! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 10 oz. You will need to wash and sauté it until wilted before adding it to the dip mixture. Make sure to chop it finely after it’s cooked!
Can I Prepare This Dip in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip mixture a day ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before baking and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover spinach dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, for the best results.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or even try using a dairy-free mayonnaise if you want to keep it vegan. Just keep in mind it might change the flavor slightly!
