Hot Spinach Dip

This Hot Spinach Dip is creamy, cheesy, and the kind of warm appetizer that disappears fast at every gathering. With melted cheese bubbling on top and tender spinach folded into a savory, rich mixture, it’s the kind of Christmas Eve appetizer that brings everyone closer to the table. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this dip is easy to make and even easier to love. This is one of those recipes you’ll want to pin for later.

Ingredients

• 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Fold in the chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is evenly combined and coated in the creamy base.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into a small oven-safe baking dish.
6. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly on top. The edges should turn slightly golden and the cheese should melt beautifully.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This gives the dip a perfect scoopable texture.

Tips & Serving Ideas

This dip appetizer pairs perfectly with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or even fresh vegetable sticks. If you’re preparing a spread of Christmas recipes appetizers, this one balances well with something sweet or tangy like Pepper Jelly Cheese Dip or hearty bites like Christmas Cranberry Meatballs.

Planning ahead? This Hot Spinach Dip can easily be made a day in advance, which makes it one of the best make ahead Christmas appetizers. Just mix everything together, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake until hot and bubbly. It saves time on busy days while keeping the flavor rich and comforting.

For variety, try adding artichoke hearts, chopped bacon, or a sprinkle of extra mozzarella on top for more golden goodness. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.

Hot Spinach Dip

This Hot Spinach Dip is creamy, cheesy, and the kind of warm appetizer that disappears fast at every gathering. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or cozy nights in, this dip is easy to make and even easier to love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach thawed and drained
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.25 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 0.25 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.
4. Fold in the chopped spinach, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
5. Spread the mixture evenly into a small oven-safe baking dish.
6. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly on top. The edges should turn slightly golden and the cheese should melt beautifully.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Serve with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks.
• Prepare a day ahead and bake when ready to serve. Variations: add artichoke hearts, chopped beef bacon, or substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the dip oily or separate the cheese.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can! Use about 3 cups of fresh spinach. Sauté it quickly in a pan until wilted, then squeeze out the extra water before mixing it in. This keeps your dip thick and creamy, which is perfect for Christmas Eve appetizers.

Can I make this Hot Spinach Dip in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and heat on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This version is ideal for Christmas appetizers party buffets since it stays warm through the evening.

How can I make it lighter without losing flavor?

Try using light cream cheese, low-fat sour cream, and a bit less mozzarella. You’ll still get that creamy texture and cheesy flavor that makes it one of the best Christmas appetizers for any occasion.

Conclusion

This Hot Spinach Dip is a simple yet irresistible dish that’s perfect for all your holiday appetizers easy lineup. Creamy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing, it’s the kind of comfort food that makes any gathering feel special. Whether for a Christmas potluck or just a cozy evening, it’s a guaranteed hit. Save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with friends it’s a must-have on every Christmas recipes appetizers board!