Hot Spinach Spread
A warm, cheesy spinach dip with a touch of spice and fresh tomato, perfect for entertaining or snacking with crackers and chopped scallions for added flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the thawed, drained, and squeezed spinach, cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, picante sauce, Parmesan cheese, chopped tomato, and chopped scallions over the stove until well combined and heated through.
- Serve warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the cream cheese and picante sauce before mixing in the other ingredients. If you prefer a spicier kick, swap out the picante sauce for salsa or add jalapeños. You can also use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to cream cheese. This dish can easily be made vegetarian by ensuring that all cheese used is rennet-free.
Serving Suggestions
This hot spinach spread is delicious served warm with assorted crackers or toasted baguette slices. For a complete appetizer, pair it with a refreshing salad or serve alongside a platter of fresh vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with Easy Chocolate Crackles for a sweet finish to your gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot spinach spread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until hot and bubbly, which helps maintain its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Spinach Spread contains roughly 333 calories, with 17g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 563mg per serving (24% 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 use fresh spinach! You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté it in a little olive oil until wilted, then drain and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into the spread.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spread a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving for the best flavor and texture. Serving it warm enhances the creamy goodness.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack or Gouda can be excellent substitutes for Cheddar cheese, providing a similar meltiness. You can also explore using a blend of cheeses for added flavor complexity.
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).