If you are on the lookout for a dip that brings cozy comfort and a rich, irresistible flavor to any gathering, this Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe is absolutely your new best friend. Blending the luscious creaminess of Velveeta and cream cheese with the vibrant kick of Rotel tomatoes and chilies, this dip is a warm, cheesy hug in every bite. Loaded with spinach for a touch of garden-fresh green and spiced up with jalapeno heat, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself during game day, parties, or any occasion that calls for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe comes together with simple, accessible ingredients that each play an essential role in creating its signature creamy texture and balanced flavor profile. From the smooth melt of Velveeta to the zesty punch from diced tomatoes with chilies, every component contributes both taste and visual appeal to your dip.
- Velveeta cheese (1 lb.): Provides a silky, meltable base that gives the dip its famously creamy texture.
- Cream cheese (16 oz.): Adds smooth richness and helps the dip stay luscious and thick.
- Heavy whipping cream (1/2 pint): Lightens the richness while keeping the consistency luscious and decadent.
- Rotel diced tomatoes with chilies (29 oz. drained): Offers a bold, slightly spicy tomato flavor that lifts the dish.
- Onion (1/2 medium, finely chopped): Brings a subtle aromatic sweetness and a little crunch.
- Frozen spinach (1 1/2 cups, thawed and squeezed dry): Adds color, nutrients, and a mild earthiness balanced by the cheese.
- Chicken bouillon cubes (4): Intensify the savory depth with their rich umami flavor.
- 2% milk (1/2 cup, plus more if needed): Helps achieve the perfect consistency, keeping the dip smooth without thinning it out too much.
- Jalapeno (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds just the right amount of heat to make this Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe sing, customizable to your spice preference.
How to Make Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Combine Ingredients
Begin by collecting and prepping all your ingredients. Cut the Velveeta and cream cheese into cubes to ensure they melt evenly and quickly. Make sure your spinach is thawed and squeezed thoroughly to remove excess water—this step is crucial to avoid a watery dip. Chop your onion and jalapeno finely for the best texture and flavor distribution. When everything is ready, place all the ingredients into your crockpot, combining them for an easy, hands-off cooking experience.
Step 2: Heat and Melt
Turn your crockpot on to a low or medium setting and let the mixture heat gently. Stir occasionally to encourage all the cheeses to melt together smoothly while allowing the flavors to mingle perfectly. This process will usually take around 45 minutes to an hour. Be patient here; slow melting ensures creamy, lump-free perfection in your final dip.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency and Heat
Once the cheeses are fully melted and the dip looks smooth and inviting, stir in the milk gradually to reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker dip, add less milk. Taste and adjust the jalapeno quantity if you want more heat, keeping in mind the residual warmth of the dip will add a little more bite after serving.
Step 4: Serve Your Dip Warm
Once everything is perfectly combined and seasoned to your liking, keep your Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe warm in the crockpot or transfer to a serving bowl. This dish is best enjoyed hot and gooey, inviting everyone to scoop up every rich, flavorful bite.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the inviting look and add texture by garnishing your dip with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions. A dusting of smoked paprika or extra jalapeno slices on top can emphasize flavor and add a pop of color that makes it irresistible on the table.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs marvelously with crispy tortilla chips for a classic combo that never fails. For a healthier twist, fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers also work wonderfully. Soft pretzels, crusty bread chunks, or even warm pita triangles provide equally delightful vehicles for this rich dip.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl, turning your dip into an edible centerpiece. Alternatively, portion into individual ramekins for a cozy appetizer feel or serve alongside a spread of charcuterie for an indulgent snack board.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your party or snack time, store leftover Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days without losing its creamy goodness, perfect for a quick snack or reheated appetizer later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dip for future enjoyment, although the texture might change slightly upon thawing as dairy-based dips sometimes separate. To freeze, place the dip in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently to bring back its smooth texture. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. Avoid high heat to keep the cheese from scorching or separating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works well if you wilt it first and squeeze out the excess moisture. Using fresh can even add a brighter flavor, but be sure to remove as much water as possible to keep the dip from becoming watery.
Is this dip very spicy?
The spice level in this Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe depends on how much jalapeno you add. The original recipe suggests about 1/4 cup chopped jalapeno, which offers a medium heat level. You can adjust this up or down to suit your taste, making it mild or fiery.
Can I make this on the stove instead of a crockpot?
Yes, you can cook this dip on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly until everything melts and combines smoothly. Just be careful to avoid burning by keeping the heat low and stirring frequently for the creamiest results.
What can I use if I don’t have Velveeta?
If Velveeta isn’t on hand, you can try substituting with a good melting processed cheese or even a blend of mild cheddar and mozzarella. The texture won’t be exactly the same, but the dip will still be creamy and delicious.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap the chicken bouillon cubes for vegetable bouillon or broth to keep the recipe vegetarian without losing the rich flavor depth these cubes provide.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe is truly a superstar in any appetizer lineup, bringing out warm, cheesy joy with every scoop. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a cozy night in, or just craving some decadent comfort food, this dip has got you covered. Don’t hesitate to whip it up and share the delicious magic — it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Print
Creamy Spinach and Cheese Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
This creamy and flavorful Espinaca Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer combining Velveeta cheese, cream cheese, spinach, and diced tomatoes with a mild kick from jalapenos. Perfectly melted and blended in a crockpot, it’s ideal for parties or casual gatherings served warm with tortilla chips.
Ingredients
Cheese and Dairy
- 1 lb. Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- 16 oz. cream cheese, cut into cubes (two 8-ounce blocks)
- 1/2 pt. heavy whipping cream (1 cup)
- 1/2 cup 2% milk (add more if needed)
Vegetables
- 29 oz. can Rotel diced tomatoes with chilies, drained (two 14.5-ounce cans)
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups frozen spinach, chopped, thawed, and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup jalapeno, chopped (adjust to desired heat)
Seasoning
- 4 cubes chicken bouillon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place all the cubes of Velveeta cheese, cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, drained Rotel tomatoes with chilies, finely chopped onion, thawed and squeezed dry chopped spinach, chicken bouillon cubes, chopped jalapenos, and 2% milk into a crockpot.
- Heat and Melt: Turn the crockpot on and heat the mixture through, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and all ingredients are well combined into a smooth, creamy dip.
- Serve: Once the dip is hot and thoroughly mixed, serve it warm with tortilla chips or tortilla strips for dipping.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeno according to your preferred spice level; 1/4 cup for moderate heat or up to 1/2 cup for a spicier dip.
- Make sure to squeeze out excess water from the thawed spinach to avoid a watery dip.
- If the dip is too thick after melting, add a bit more 2% milk to reach your desired consistency.
- This dip can be kept warm on low heat in the crockpot for parties to maintain the perfect serving temperature.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken bouillon cubes with vegetable bouillon.
