Save A creamy, flavorful spinach dip served in a crusty bread bowl is perfect for parties and gatherings. Easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and always a crowd favorite.
I first made this spinach dip for a holiday party, and everyone kept coming back for seconds. It has since become a staple at all our family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb/450 g)
- Dip Base: 10 oz (285 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained; 1 cup (240 g) sour cream; 1 cup (225 g) mayonnaise; 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped green onions; 1/2 cup (60 g) diced water chestnuts (optional, for crunch); 1 small clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried dill weed
- For Serving: Assorted raw vegetables (carrots, celery, bell peppers); Extra bread cubes (from bread bowl or additional loaf)
Instructions
- Prepare Bread Bowl:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut a circle from the top of the sourdough loaf and scoop out the inside to create a bowl. Cut the removed bread into bite-sized cubes for dipping.
- Mix Dip Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed and well-drained spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, water chestnuts (if using), garlic, salt, pepper, and dill. Mix until fully blended.
- Fill Bread Bowl:
- Spoon the spinach dip mixture into the hollowed bread bowl.
- Bake Dip:
- Place filled bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, until dip is warmed through and cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Arrange bread cubes and assorted vegetables around the bread bowl for dipping. Serve immediately.
Save Every time we bring out this spinach dip, our kids rush over to scoop up extra bread cubes. It's become a joyful part of our celebrations.
Flavor Variations
Add chopped artichoke hearts or extra herbs such as chives, basil, or parsley for a fresh twist on the classic dip.
Serving Ideas
Pair the dip with crisp white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc, and arrange colorful veggies for a beautiful appetizer spread.
Lighten It Up
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise or sour cream while keeping all the flavor.
Save This irresistible spinach dip always disappears fast, so be sure to make extra if you want leftovers for your next gathering.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I prepare the bread bowl?
Cut a circle from the top of a large sourdough loaf and hollow out the center, reserving the removed bread for dipping.
- → Can I make this without baking?
Yes, chill the mixture and serve cold for a fresh, creamy alternative without heating.
- → What can I add for extra crunch?
Diced water chestnuts add a pleasant crunch, but you can also try chopped artichoke hearts for different texture and flavor.
- → Are there suitable substitutions to lighten the dip?
Substitute half the sour cream or mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce richness while retaining creaminess.
- → What should I serve alongside this dip?
Arrange extra bread cubes and a variety of raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for dipping.