Spinach Dip Casserole
Creamy spinach dip casserole combines tender spinach with rich cream cheese and parmesan cheese, baked to perfection for a savory, cheesy dish. Ideal as an appetizer or side, it pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or bread, making it a crowd-pleasing addition to parties, family dinners, or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook spinach until just done; drain well.
- Mix cooked spinach with softened cream cheese, softened butter, and salt.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and cover with parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until the cheese melts.
- Serve with tortilla chips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending the cream cheese until smooth before mixing it with the spinach. You can substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. If fresh spinach is available, use about 1 pound, cooked and chopped, instead of frozen. Adding garlic or onion powder can enhance the dip's flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spinach Dip Casserole warm with tortilla chips for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, such as Mayor Sal Mancini's Summer Rice Salad, or as a side to grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider adding a light soup, like a vegetable or tomato bisque, to balance the richness of the dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick snacks, but the oven method will keep the cheese nicely melted.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Dip Casserole contains roughly 86 calories, with 6g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1073mg per serving (47% 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. Cook it down in a pan until wilted, then chop and drain any excess moisture before mixing with the other ingredients.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare ahead, mix the spinach and cheese mixture, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just sprinkle the parmesan on top and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbly.
Is there a gluten-free option for serving?
Absolutely! Serve with gluten-free tortilla chips or cut vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers for dipping. This allows everyone to enjoy the dish without gluten concerns.
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).