Ranch Spinach Dip Recipe
Introduction
This Ranch Spinach Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for gatherings and parties. Loaded with spinach and a flavorful ranch blend, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser served warm with your favorite dippers.
Ingredients
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1½ teaspoons minced garlic
- 9 oz frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch dip mix
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Bread, crackers, or pretzels for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, and minced garlic until evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Stir in the thoroughly drained spinach and ranch dip mix until well incorporated.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the top.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is browned and bubbling.
- Step 6: Serve the dip hot with bread, crackers, or pretzels for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery dip. Press with paper towels or squeeze in a clean cloth.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the mixture before baking.
- Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack cheese for a slightly different creamy texture.
- To make it lighter, substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
Storage
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, use about 1 cup of fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed until wilted and moisture evaporates. Be sure to drain it well before mixing to avoid excess liquid.
Is this dip suitable for freezing?
This dip can be frozen, but the texture of the cheeses and spinach may change slightly after thawing. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Ranch Spinach Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and flavorful Ranch Spinach Dip is a perfect appetizer for any gathering. A delightful blend of cheeses, garlic, ranch seasoning, and spinach baked to bubbly perfection, served warm with bread, crackers, or pretzels for dipping.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic
- 9 oz frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch dip mix
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
Serving
- Bread, crackers, or pretzels for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Mix Cream Base: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, and minced garlic until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Add Spinach and Ranch Mix: Stir in the thoroughly drained spinach and the ranch dip mix ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the combined mixture into the greased baking dish and sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese evenly over the top to create a flavorful crust.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve hot with bread, crackers, or pretzels for dipping and enjoy the delicious savory flavors.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid a watery dip.
- For a sharper flavor, use extra sharp cheddar cheese.
- You can prepare the dip in advance and refrigerate before baking; just increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
- Serve with a variety of dippers like sliced baguette, pita chips, or pretzel sticks.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers or bread alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ranch spinach dip, baked spinach dip, creamy spinach dip, party dip, appetizer
