Save A creamy, flavorful spinach dip served in a crusty bread bowl, perfect for parties and gatherings. Easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and always a crowd favorite.
I first made this spinach dip for a family backyard barbecue. It was gone in minutes, with everyone scraping the bowl for more. Since then, it's become my go-to appetizer for holidays and potlucks, always sparking requests for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb (450 g))
- Dip Base: 10 oz (285 g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained, 1 cup (240 g) sour cream, 1 cup (225 g) mayonnaise, 1 cup (120 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup (60 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup (30 g) chopped green onions, 1/2 cup (60 g) diced water chestnuts (optional for crunch), 1 small clove garlic minced, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp dried dill weed
- For Serving: Assorted raw vegetables (carrots celery bell peppers), Extra bread cubes (from bread bowl or additional loaf)
Instructions
- Prep the Bread Bowl:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut a circle from the top of the sourdough loaf and scoop out the inside to make a bowl. Cut the removed bread into cubes for dipping.
- Prepare the Dip:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed and well-drained spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, water chestnuts (if using), garlic, salt, pepper, and dill. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
- Fill and Bake:
- Spoon the spinach dip mixture into the hollowed bread bowl. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, until warmed and cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Arrange bread cubes and assorted vegetables around the bread bowl for dipping. Serve immediately.
Save This spinach dip is a staple at our holiday gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table. My kids love helping tear up the extra bread for dipping—it turns snacking into a fun family tradition.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc for an elevated party spread. Great with crunchy vegetables and extra bread cubes for dipping.
Ingredient Swaps
Try adding chopped artichoke hearts for more flavor. To keep it vegetarian, verify mayonnaise ingredients: some brands may contain eggs or soy.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (from bread) and milk (from cheese and sour cream). May contain eggs and soy in mayonnaise—always check labels if allergies are a concern.
Save This dip is always gone before the party ends. Bringing it warm in the bread bowl ensures everyone gets a taste of creamy, cheesy goodness.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I prepare the spinach mixture in advance?
Yes, you can mix all the ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to keep it fresh and warm.
- → Is it possible to make this without baking?
Absolutely, chilling the dip instead of baking creates a cool, refreshing version that’s equally tasty.
- → What bread works best for the bowl?
A round sourdough loaf provides a sturdy and flavorful vessel that crisps nicely when baked.
- → Can I add extra vegetables for texture?
Yes, diced water chestnuts add crunch, and serving with raw carrots, celery, or bell peppers complements the creamy dip well.
- → How can I lighten the mixture?
Replacing half the mayonnaise or sour cream with Greek yogurt reduces richness while retaining creaminess.