Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

This Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe is a creamy, garlicky delight that perfectly captures the flavor of the famous Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip from Longhorn. It’s ideal for parties, game nights, or cozy gatherings. With its rich cheese blend and the freshness of spinach, this dip is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: It takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for any last-minute gatherings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and two types of cheese creates a deliciously creamy texture and robust flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it with veggies, crackers, or bread; it’s perfect for any occasion!
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze it for later enjoyment.
• Healthier Option: Packed with spinach, this dip offers some nutritional benefits while still being indulgent.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delightful dip, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients evenly for a consistent flavor.
• Baking dish: Perfect for holding the dip while it bakes, ensuring even cooking and a nice golden top.
• Spoon or spatula: Important 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 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: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you need to bake the dip.

Step 2: Sauté Spinach and Garlic

In a mixing bowl:
1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the spinach (fresh or thawed) and stir until wilted. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Cheese Ingredients

In the same mixing bowl:
1. Add cream cheese chunks, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, white cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined into a creamy mixture.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a baking dish evenly.

Step 5: Add Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Combine Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and remaining parmesan cheese.
2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the spinach dip.

Step 6: Bake

Place in preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving with your choice of dippers such as chips, crackers, or fresh veggies. Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Spinach Dip!

How to Serve Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

Longhorn Spinach Dip is a versatile appetizer that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Carrot sticks – Crunchy and sweet, they provide a great contrast to the creamy dip.
• Cucumber slices – Refreshing and hydrating, these add a cool bite.
• Bell pepper strips – Colorful and sweet, they bring extra flavor and nutrition.

With Crackers

• Pita chips – These crispy delights are perfect for scooping up the dip.
• Whole grain crackers – Nutty and hearty, they complement the creamy spinach perfectly.
• Tortilla chips – A classic choice that adds a satisfying crunch.

With Bread

• Baguette slices – Toasted or fresh, they make an excellent base for the dip.
• Soft pretzels – A fun twist that pairs beautifully with the cheesy flavor of the dip.

How to Perfect Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Longhorn Spinach Dip, keep these tips in mind. They will help enhance flavor and texture.

• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach offers a vibrant color and taste compared to frozen options. If using frozen, ensure it’s well-drained.
• Soften cream cheese: Letting cream cheese sit at room temperature makes it easier to blend smoothly into the dip.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for personal preference.
• Add more cheese: For an extra cheesy dip, feel free to increase the amount of Parmesan or cheddar used.
• Bake for crispiness: After mixing all ingredients, bake until golden brown on top for added texture.
• Serve warm: This dip is best enjoyed warm; reheat gently if it cools down too much.

Best Side Dishes for Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Longhorn Spinach Dip can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Warm and buttery garlic bread complements the richness of the dip beautifully.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms offer a flavorful bite that pairs well with creamy dips.
3. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a refreshing contrast.
4. Buffalo Chicken Wings – Spicy wings balance out the creaminess of the spinach dip for a delightful combo.
5. Mini Quiches – These savory bites add variety and are easy to eat alongside your spinach dip.
6. Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses adds sophistication and variety when served with your dip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Not squeezing out excess moisture: If using frozen spinach, failing to drain it properly can make your dip watery. Always squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing.
• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter. Cook it just until fragrant to keep the flavor bright.
• Skipping the cream cheese softening step: Using cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your dip. Make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth consistency.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tastes vary, so don’t skip tasting the dip before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for best results.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Freshness matters! Stale breadcrumbs won’t add the desired crunch. Always use fresh Panko for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe that may help you get the most out of this dish.

Can I make Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, sliced vegetables, or toasted bread.

Can I customize the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add more cheeses or even some diced artichokes for added flavor and texture.

How do I know when my spinach dip is done?

The dip should be bubbly and slightly golden on top when it’s ready to serve.

Is the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs in your recipe.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its cheesy richness and garlicky flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite cheeses or toppings for a personal touch!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Longhorn Spinach Dip

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Discover the ultimate Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe, a creamy and garlicky delight that’s perfect for any occasion. This crowd-pleaser mirrors the beloved Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip from Longhorn, featuring a rich blend of cheeses and fresh spinach that will leave your guests raving. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this indulgent dip, making it an ideal choice for parties, game nights, or cozy gatherings. Best served warm alongside fresh vegetables, crackers, or toasted bread, this dip is not only delicious but also freezer-friendly for those unexpected cravings. Elevate your entertaining game with this easy-to-make appetizer that combines convenience with incredible flavor.

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Ingredients

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• 6 oz spinach (fresh or thawed)
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 8 oz cream cheese (broken into chunks)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup white cheddar cheese
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 Tbsp Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and stir until wilted. Remove from heat.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese chunks, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, white cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
5. For the topping, mix Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and remaining Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over the dip.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
7. Let cool slightly before serving with your choice of dippers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
• Calories: 276
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 382mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 47mg