Ranch Spinach Dip
Oh, spinach dip. How we love thee! From the hot and bubbly ones to the basic tubs of it you find in a cold case, there’s no going wrong with a cheesy spinach dip. We’ve made our fair shares of different versions over the years, but one we had never tried was a Ranch Spinach Dip. Really, I don’t know how we didn’t think of it earlier because we are BIG fans of ranch around here. Maybe it’s my Michigan roots or maybe ranch is just a heaven sent flavor, either way this dip gets our official seal of approval!
For this recipe, we went with frozen spinach which makes the whole process incredibly easy. You’ll want to fully thaw the spinach and drain as much water out as possible. From there, all you have to do is mix everything together. We used a full packet of ranch dip mix which takes care of the seasoning (other than a bit of fresh garlic, always a necessity). Top it all off with a layer of parmesan and that bad boy is ready for the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ranch Spinach Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a zesty ranch twist. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to for any gathering or snack craving. Plus, the use of frozen spinach keeps it simple and stress-free.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8×8 baking dish
- Oven
- Spatula or mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic
- 9 oz frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
- 1 1 oz packet ranch dip mix
- ¼ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- Bread, crackers, or pretzels for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and grease an 8×8 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, cheddar, and garlic.
- Once combined, stir in the drained spinach and ranch mix.
- Transfer mixture to baking dish and top with parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the top begins to brown and bubble.
- Serve hot with crackers, bread, or pretzels.
Tips for Success
Make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid a watery dip. Softening the cream cheese beforehand makes mixing easier and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option. You can also sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for added freshness.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dip is rich in flavor but also provides a good dose of calcium and vitamin A from the cheese and spinach. Remember to enjoy in moderation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just make sure to cook it down and drain it well before adding to the dip.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
Conclusion
This Ranch Spinach Dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or whenever you’re in the mood for a hearty snack. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out for you. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you might have added!
