This creamy spinach dip is packed with flavor, combining spinach, cheese, and spices for a tasty treat. It’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips or fresh veggies!
You might find yourself wanting to eat it straight from the bowl—yes, I’ve done it too! 😅 I love serving it warm with crunchy chips for the best munching experience.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Frozen chopped spinach works best for this recipe because it’s easy to use. If you prefer fresh, use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, cooked down and chopped. Just be sure to squeeze out excess water!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the creamy base. If you’d like a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which will still add creaminess and a bit of tang.
Cheese: Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses are both great, but feel free to swap in pepper jack for some spice or even cream cheese for a richer consistency.
Green Chilies: Canned green chilies are convenient, but you can also use roasted fresh chilies for a smokier flavor. If you like a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are used for that classic Santa Fe taste. Adjust these spices according to your heat preference. Adding more chili powder or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Spinach Dip?
The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in properly draining the spinach. Wet spinach can make the dip watery. Be diligent about pressing out excess moisture to keep your dip nice and creamy! Here’s how:
- After thawing, place the spinach in a clean kitchen towel or a fine mesh strainer.
- Twist the towel or press the strainer to squeeze out as much water as possible. You want it to feel almost dry!
- Mix it into your other ingredients, and you’ll notice a much better texture that’s not runny.
How to Make Cheddar’s Santa Fe Spinach Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green chilies (roasted or canned)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped jalapeños for added heat
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect snack for parties or movie nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Before you start mixing everything, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that dip bubbling and golden!
2. Prepare the Spinach:
Take your thawed spinach and drain it well. You can do this by placing it in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing out as much water as possible. Removing excess moisture will keep your dip thick and creamy!
3. Mix in the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, green chilies, onion, garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well blended together.
4. Add the Spinach:
Now, carefully fold the drained spinach into your cheese mixture until evenly combined. If you enjoy spice, feel free to toss in some chopped jalapeños here too!
5. Transfer and Bake:
Pour the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish or individual ramekins. Spread it out evenly and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly with a lightly golden top.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the dip is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Grab your tortilla chips and dig into this delicious, creamy spinach dip!
Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of your homemade Cheddar’s Santa Fe Spinach Dip! It’s sure to be a hit with friends and family!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 1 pound. Cook it down until wilted, then chop and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the mix.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. This will maintain the creaminess with a tangy flavor and fewer calories!
How Do I Make It Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, add more chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Just adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the dip in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly before serving again!