Hot Spinach Dip
A creamy, spicy spinach dip featuring melted jalapeno Jack cheese and savory onions, perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Its rich, cheesy flavor and warm texture make it a crowd-pleaser served with toast points or chips, ideal for entertaining friends and family in a relaxed setting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Saute chopped onion until soft and translucent.
- Add flour, evaporated milk, and reserved spinach juice to the skillet.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in grated jalapeno Jack cheese and cooked spinach until cheese melts and mixture is smooth.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and salt to taste, stirring to combine.
- Serve hot in a chafing dish with toast points or corn chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream cheese or sour cream to the dip. If you prefer a milder flavor, substitute the jalapeno Jack cheese with a regular Monterey Jack or even cheddar. Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just ensure it’s well cooked and drained. This dip can also be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot spinach dip in a chafing dish to keep it warm, and pair it with toast points or corn chips for dipping. It also goes well with fresh veggies like carrot sticks or bell pepper slices. For a delightful spread, consider serving it alongside Horseradish Mousse or other American recipes to create a varied appetizer platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently to prevent uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Spinach Dip contains roughly 322 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 468mg per serving (20% 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 make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before baking. This makes it a great option for party planning, as you can focus on other dishes, like Bourbon-Chocolate Pecan Pie, while your dip is warming up.
Is there a way to make this dip vegetarian?
Absolutely! The ingredients are already vegetarian, but ensure that the Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies. You can enhance the flavor with additional spices or herbs, such as garlic powder or crushed red pepper, for an extra kick.
What can I use to serve the dip besides corn chips?
In addition to corn chips, this dip pairs wonderfully with sliced baguette, pita chips, or even crispy tortilla chips. For a healthier option, consider serving it with fresh vegetable sticks like celery, cucumber, or bell peppers, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.
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).