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Spinach Dip Recipe

Spinach Dip is a creamy, savory appetizer made with tender spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and a blend of seasonings. It has a smooth texture, a mild garlic flavor, and plenty of spinach in every bite.
This easy spinach dip comes together with simple ingredients and requires very little preparation. Serve it chilled with crackers and fresh vegetables, or warm it in the oven for a comforting party appetizer.
Prep Time 10 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Appetizer, dips
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 190 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Hand mixer (or whisk)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander
  • Spatula
  • Serving bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach thawed
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped water chestnuts
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Thaw the Spinach: Remove the frozen spinach from its packaging and thaw it completely. You can thaw it in the refrigerator or use the microwave according to the package directions.
  • Remove Excess Moisture: Place the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This helps keep the dip thick and creamy rather than watery.
  • Soften the Cream Cheese: Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
  • Add the Creamy Ingredients: Add the sour cream and mayonnaise to the cream cheese. Mix until everything is evenly combined and the mixture has a smooth consistency.
  • Season the Dip: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed.
  • Fold in the Vegetables: Add the well-drained spinach, chopped water chestnuts, and green onions. Fold gently with a spatula until the vegetables are evenly distributed.
  • Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to develop and gives the dip a firmer consistency.
  • Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chilled spinach dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

  • Drain the spinach thoroughly: Excess water is the main reason spinach dip becomes runny. Squeeze the spinach well before mixing.
  • Use softened cream cheese: Room-temperature cream cheese blends more easily and prevents lumps.
  • Adjust the consistency: Add a little extra sour cream if you prefer a softer dip, or use slightly less for a thicker texture.
  • Fresh spinach option: Use approximately 1 pound of fresh spinach. Cook it until wilted, cool completely, and squeeze out the excess liquid before chopping.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the dip up to one day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.