This Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe is a delightful, creamy dish that brings the irresistible flavors of the Parmesan Crusted Spinach dip from Longhorn right to your kitchen. Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in, this dip is both cheesy and flavorful, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. With its rich texture and vibrant taste, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of total cooking time, you can whip up this delicious dip quickly.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of cream cheese and cheeses creates a creamy dip that’s bursting with flavor.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, this dip fits right in.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and freeze portions for later enjoyment without losing quality.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Its cheesy goodness makes it a favorite among guests of all ages.
Tools and Preparation
To create this scrumptious spinach dip, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool allows for quick chopping and mixing of ingredients, saving you time in preparation.
- Baking dish: A suitable size ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect bubbly top.
- Spatula: Useful for mixing ingredients thoroughly and serving the dip smoothly.
Ingredients
This creamy, garlicky, copycat spinach dip recipe tastes just like the Parmesan Crusted Spinach dip from Longhorn! It’s cheesy, flavorful, and freezer-friendly!
For the Spinach Dip
- 6 oz spinach (or 6-oz of frozen spinach, thawed, drained, and liquid squeezed out)
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic (1 tablespoon, minced)
- 8 oz cream cheese (broken up into six chunks)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (I used Kraft)
- 3/4 cup white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For Topping
- 2 Tbsp Panko bread crumbs
- 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese (I used pre-shredded cheese in a 5-oz bag)
- 1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
How to Make Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by preparing your ingredients. If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly. For frozen spinach, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In a pan over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl or food processor:
1. Add the sautéed garlic.
2. Combine with cream cheese chunks.
3. Pour in heavy cream.
4. Add grated parmesan cheese and white cheddar cheese.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix Panko bread crumbs with melted butter and additional parmesan cheese; sprinkle on top of the dip.
- Bake for about 5 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown on top.
Now enjoy your delicious Longhorn Spinach Dip with chips or veggies!
How to Serve Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe
Longhorn Spinach Dip is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a delicious snack, there are plenty of creative serving ideas to make this dip shine.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Carrot sticks – Crunchy and sweet, they pair well with the creamy texture of the dip.
- Celery sticks – Their crispness adds a refreshing contrast.
- Cucumber slices – Light and hydrating, perfect for dipping.
On Crispy Tortilla Chips
- Corn tortilla chips – The salty crunch complements the creamy spinach dip beautifully.
- Pita chips – These add a different texture and flavor that’s equally delightful.
In a Bread Bowl
- Sourdough bread bowl – Hollow out a loaf for an impressive presentation and serve the dip inside it.
With Crackers
- Assorted crackers – Choose a variety of flavors and textures to enhance your dipping experience.
How to Perfect Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe
To achieve the best results with your Longhorn Spinach Dip, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dip is both flavorful and creamy.
- Use fresh spinach – Fresh spinach provides a vibrant color and fresher taste compared to frozen options.
- Sauté garlic properly – Sautéing garlic until fragrant enhances its flavor; be careful not to burn it.
- Mix cheeses well – Blending cheese thoroughly ensures an even distribution of creaminess throughout the dip.
- Adjust seasoning as needed – Taste your dip before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper for personal preference.
- Serve warm – This dip is best enjoyed warm; consider warming it up just before serving for optimal flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Longhorn Spinach Dip can elevate your appetizer spread. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors perfectly.
- Garlic Bread – Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit of dip.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a light and refreshing option alongside the rich dip.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms offer another layer of flavor that pairs well with the spinach dip.
- Mini Quiches – These bite-sized treats bring an eggy richness that contrasts nicely with the spinach flavors.
- Fruit Platter – A mix of sweet fruits like strawberries and apples adds freshness and balances out the savory dip.
- Cheese Platter – Offer an assortment of cheeses to complement the cheesy goodness of the spinach dip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Mistaking fresh for frozen spinach: Fresh spinach and frozen spinach behave differently in recipes. If you use fresh, make sure to cook it down enough to remove excess moisture.
- Overcooking garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter. Sauté it until fragrant but not browned—usually just a minute or two.
- Ignoring cheese quality: The taste of your dip will largely depend on the cheese used. Always opt for high-quality Parmesan and cheddar for the best flavor.
- Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture from spinach can make your dip watery. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible if using frozen spinach.
- Skipping the Panko topping: For a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy dip, don’t skip adding Panko breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe
- Place the dip in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s tightly sealed.
Reheating Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring between each until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe.
Can I use different cheeses in this Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
How long does it take to make this Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe?
The total prep and cooking time is just about 15 minutes, making it a quick appetizer option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
What can I serve with my Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe?
Consider pairing it with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, or toasted baguette slices for dipping.
Final Thoughts
This Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding extra spices or even some diced vegetables. Try making this dip at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!
Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe
Indulge in this creamy Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe, a delightful copycat version of the beloved restaurant classic. Perfect for game days, gatherings, or cozy nights in, this dip offers a rich blend of cheeses and fresh spinach, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can create this cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to please your family and friends. Serve it warm with crispy tortilla chips or fresh veggies for an irresistible appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 6 oz fresh spinach (or thawed frozen spinach)
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup white cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Panko bread crumbs for topping
Instructions
- Prepare your spinach by washing fresh leaves or thawing and draining frozen ones.
- In a pan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- In a mixing bowl or food processor, combine sautéed garlic, cream cheese, heavy cream, parmesan, white cheddar, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Mix Panko with melted butter and sprinkle on top of the dip. Bake for 5 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Use fresh spinach for a vibrant color and flavor. If desired, add diced vegetables like artichokes or peppers for extra texture and taste. This dip can be made ahead of time; just bake it right before serving.