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Cheddar's Spinach Dip

A creamy, cheesy appetizer combining sharp cheddar and spinach with pantry staples, ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 appetizer servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 10 ounces frozen spinach thawed and drained (or 12 ounces fresh spinach, chopped and squeezed dry)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of nutmeg optional but recommended
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish or similar oven-safe dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven (preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Knife and cutting board (if chopping fresh spinach)
  • Colander or fine-mesh strainer

Method
 

  1. If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
  2. Set the cream cheese on the counter for 15 minutes to reach room temperature.
  3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir with a wooden spoon until fully combined and smooth.
  5. Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and prepared spinach gently until evenly distributed.
  6. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and nutmeg if using. Stir gently and taste to adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. Spread the mixture evenly into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes until the top is golden and edges are bubbling.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
  11. Serve warm or at room temperature with chips, crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.

Notes

Squeeze all moisture from spinach to avoid watery dip. Bring dairy ingredients to room temperature before mixing for smooth texture. Nutmeg adds subtle warmth. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded. Dip can be prepared 24 hours ahead and baked fresh. Stir in a tablespoon of cream or milk if dip appears dry after baking.