Hot Spinach Or Broccoli Dip
Creamy hot spinach or broccoli dip with melted cheese, complemented by toasted sourdough bread and fresh vegetables. Perfect for parties, snacks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Break the bread into pieces and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Saute chopped celery, red pepper, and onion in margarine until tender.
- Add cubed Velveeta cheese and stir over low heat until melted and smooth.
- Mix in the thawed and drained chopped spinach or broccoli. Heat thoroughly, stirring constantly.
- Serve hot with bread pieces and/or vegetable dippers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sautéed vegetables. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese for the Velveeta cheese. You can also use fresh spinach or broccoli instead of frozen, just be sure to cook it down and remove excess moisture before adding it to the dip.
Serving Suggestions
This dip is perfect for parties and pairs beautifully with bread pieces, crackers, or fresh vegetable dippers. You can also serve it alongside American recipes like T'S Tatoe Salad for a delightful spread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of hearty soup or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Spinach Or Broccoli Dip contains roughly 507 calories, with 3g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 518mg per serving (23% 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 a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point before baking, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until hot and bubbly, adjusting the time as needed since it will start cold.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta gives a creamy texture, you can substitute with cream cheese or a combination of shredded cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just ensure to melt it thoroughly for a smooth dip.
Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dip is vegetarian-friendly as it includes vegetables and cheese. However, always check the cheese brand for any animal-derived rennet. To make it vegan, substitute with plant-based cheese and use vegan margarine.
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).