Elizabeth Fendley'S Spinach Con Queso
A creamy, cheesy spinach dip with mushrooms and jalapenos, perfect for parties and gatherings, offering bold flavors and a smooth texture that pairs well with tortillas.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thaw the spinach and squeeze until dry.
- In a microwavable bowl, combine the Velveeta cheese (cut into cubes), sliced mushrooms, spinach, and sliced jalapeno peppers.
- Microwave on High for 3 minutes and stir, then repeat until the cheese is melted.
- Add milk and microwave on Medium-high for 2 minutes.
- Serve warm with flour tortillas.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream to the mix. If you prefer a spicier kick, use fresh diced jalapeños instead of sliced. You can substitute the frozen spinach with fresh spinach; just sauté it briefly before adding. This dip is versatile and pairs well with tortilla chips or even as a filling for quesadillas, similar to Quick As A Wink Chili Rellenos.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful Spinach Con Queso warm with a side of flour tortillas, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies for dipping. It also makes a fantastic filling for burritos or quesadillas. Pair it with a refreshing salad, like the Famous Southwestern Salad, for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warm. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. This ensures a smooth consistency when serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elizabeth Fendley'S Spinach Con Queso contains roughly 338 calories, with 12g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (190% of the Daily Value), iron (87% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh spinach! Just sauté about 10 ounces of fresh spinach until wilted, then squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the cheese mixture. This will give your dip a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Is there a way to make this dip healthier?
To make this dip healthier, you can substitute part of the Velveeta with a lower-fat cheese or use a blend of Greek yogurt and cheese for added creaminess without the extra calories. You could also add more vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn for additional nutrients.
What can I serve with Spinach Con Queso?
This dip is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Consider offering tortilla chips, fresh cut vegetables, or even topping on baked potatoes. It also pairs well with Mexican recipes like tacos or enchiladas for a complete meal experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).