Microwave Hot Spinach Dip
Creamy spinach dip with ham or shrimp, pecans, and seasonings, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a warm appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Microwave cream cheese in a dish for 30 seconds until softened.
- Add minced green onion, garlic salt, pepper, and milk to the cream cheese and stir well.
- Remove the outer wrapper from the frozen chopped spinach and microwave for 5 minutes, turning halfway through until completely defrosted.
- Drain the spinach thoroughly.
- Stir in the drained ham or shrimp and the spinach into the cheese mixture.
- Fold in the sour cream and chopped pecans.
- Microwave the mixture for 5 minutes or until very hot, stirring gently after 2 minutes.
- Serve the hot spinach dip warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using flavored cream cheese, such as herb or garlic. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap out the ham or shrimp for artichokes or mushrooms. Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just sauté until wilted. Experiment with different nuts, like walnuts, for added crunch. This dip can also be spiced up with some red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot spinach dip with tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Crunchy Peas Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Skillet Hamburgers or as an appetizer before a main dish. It's perfect for game day or festive gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot spinach dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly for a crispy top layer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Hot Spinach Dip contains roughly 275 calories, with 7g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
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 ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until hot. This makes it a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works well and adds a nice tangy flavor. You could also use a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt, for a vegan version.
Is it possible to make this dip healthier?
Absolutely! You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream to cut down on calories. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini to increase the nutritional value while maintaining flavor.
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).