12ozfrozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drainedsqueeze very dry
8.5ozcream cheese, softened
0.66cupsour cream
0.33cupmayonnaise
1.25cuplow-moisture mozzarella, shredded
0.55cupParmesan cheese, finely grated
0.5cupsharp cheddar cheese, shreddedfor topping
1.5tspfresh garlic, minced
0.75tsponion powder
0.75tspkosher saltadjust to taste
0.5tspblack pepper, freshly ground
0.25tspcrushed red pepper flakesoptional for heat
1.25tbsplemon juicefresh if possible
3.5ozwater chestnuts, drained and finely choppedoptional for crunch
1tspunsalted butterfor greasing the dish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Heat oven to 375°F. Lightly butter a small baking dish.
Thaw spinach and squeeze out as much liquid as possible until very dry.
Beat cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Mix in sour cream and mayonnaise.
Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Fold in the drained spinach, lemon juice, and water chestnuts if using.
Spread the mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle cheddar evenly over the top.
Bake until hot and bubbling with lightly golden spots, 18–22 minutes.
Rest 5 minutes. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or veggies.
Notes
Variation: Swap half the spinach for chopped artichoke hearts, or stir in a spoonful of pesto for a herby twist. Slow cooker: Mix as directed and warm on Low for 1–2 hours, then switch to Warm for serving. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; reheat covered at 325°F until hot.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Cheesy Spinach Dip Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.