Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

This Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe is a delightful, creamy concoction that perfectly captures the essence of the beloved Parmesan Crusted Spinach dip from Longhorn. It’s great for parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying a cozy night in. The blend of cheeses and garlic creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it an excellent choice for meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of total time, this dip is easy to whip up for any last-minute gathering.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cream cheese and heavy cream ensures a rich and indulgent texture.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a dip for chips, veggies, or spread on toasted bread.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze it for future cravings!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its delicious flavor makes it a hit among family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Longhorn Spinach Dip recipe smoothly, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Ideal for quickly chopping garlic and mixing the ingredients to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all the creamy elements without spilling.
• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and presentation when serving your delicious dip.

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
• 3/4 cup white cheddar cheese
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 Tbsp Panko bread crumbs
• 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese
• 1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

How to Make Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Start by rinsing fresh spinach thoroughly. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s completely thawed and drained well. Squeeze out excess liquid.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a skillet over medium heat, add the extra virgin olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Add cooked spinach to the sautéed garlic.
2. Add cream cheese in chunks.
3. Pour in heavy cream.
4. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and white cheddar cheese.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 4: Mix Thoroughly

Using a food processor or by hand with a spatula, mix until all ingredients are well combined into a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with Panko bread crumbs and additional parmesan cheese for added crunch.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Enjoy your homemade Longhorn Spinach Dip with your favorite dippers!

How to Serve Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

This creamy Longhorn Spinach Dip is a delightful appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Crackers

• Use a variety of crackers like water crackers or whole wheat for a crunchy texture that complements the dip’s creaminess.

Fresh Vegetables

• Serve with an assortment of fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell pepper strips for a healthy, crunchy option.

Toasted Bread Slices

• Offer toasted baguette slices or crostini. The warm bread pairs wonderfully with the cheesy spinach dip.

Chips

• Tortilla chips or pita chips add an extra crunch and are great for scooping up every last bit of this delicious dip.

Stuffed Mini Peppers

• Fill mini bell peppers with the spinach dip for a colorful and flavorful bite-sized treat that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Perfect Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

Creating the perfect Longhorn Spinach Dip involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach provides a vibrant color and flavor compared to frozen spinach. If using frozen, ensure it is well-drained.

• Cream Cheese Temperature: Soften cream cheese before mixing to achieve a smooth texture. Leave it out for about 30 minutes before use.

• Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheeses. While Parmesan and cheddar are traditional, adding mozzarella can enhance the creaminess.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak seasoning according to your preference. More garlic powder or salt can elevate the flavor profile.

• Bake for Extra Crispiness: Broil the top briefly after baking for an added crispy layer. This gives a beautiful golden finish.

Best Side Dishes for Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Longhorn Spinach Dip enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for dipping into the spinach mixture.

2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dip, providing freshness in every bite.

3. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites complement the spinach dip nicely and can be filled with various ingredients like cheese or herbs.

4. Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses like brie, gouda, and blue cheese alongside fruits and nuts for variety.

5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes serve as a hearty addition that pairs well with the creamy dip.

6. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers offer sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the spinach dip.

7. Mini Quiches: Bite-sized quiches filled with vegetables or cheese make excellent accompaniments that guests will love.

8. Deviled Eggs: Classic deviled eggs provide protein while adding an elegant touch to your spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Using raw spinach: Always use cooked or properly thawed spinach. This ensures the dip is creamy and not too watery.

• Not draining the spinach well: If using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out excess moisture. Wet spinach can lead to a diluted flavor and undesirable texture.

• Overcooking garlic: Garlic should be sautéed until fragrant but not browned. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dip.

• Skipping the Panko topping: The Panko bread crumbs add a nice crunch. Don’t skip this step, as it balances the creaminess of the dip.

• Ignoring cheese quality: Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be stored for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, ensure there’s minimal air in the container.

Reheating Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat while stirring regularly to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe that might help you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just cook it down and drain it well before adding it to your dip.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

How do I make this dip spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick! Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I prepare this Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or game day. Its versatility allows you to customize with different cheeses or spices according to your taste. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy delight of our Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe, a perfect appetizer for any gathering or cozy night in. This scrumptious dip is a harmonious blend of fresh spinach, rich cream cheese, and savory cheeses, all enhanced with garlic for an irresistible flavor. Whether served with crunchy vegetables, crispy chips, or toasted bread, this dip will be a hit at your next party. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it easy to prepare ahead of time and enjoy whenever cravings strike. So gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delectable dish!

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Ingredients

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• 6 oz fresh or frozen spinach (thawed and drained)
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup white cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 Tbsp Panko bread crumbs

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Instructions

1. Prepare the spinach by rinsing fresh spinach thoroughly or ensuring frozen spinach is thawed and well-drained.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spinach with sautéed garlic, cream cheese chunks, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, white cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Mix until smooth using a food processor or spatula.
5. Spread the mixture in a baking dish and top with Panko bread crumbs and additional parmesan.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg