Everybody’s Favourite Chicago Dip Recipe

Introduction

This creamy, cheesy Chicago Dip is a crowd-pleaser that combines fresh spinach and flavorful cheeses for a warm, irresistible appetizer. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it’s simple to prepare and delightful to share.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped (about 1/2 a bag)
• 2 cups mozzarella or Monterey cheese, shredded
• 1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 tsp parsley
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth. Add the chopped spinach, pressed garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes, stirring well.
3. Step 3: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. Then fold in the shredded mozzarella (or Monterey) and grated parmesan cheeses until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture into a small casserole dish (about 8 x 8 inches) and spread it evenly to the edges.
5. Step 5: Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately with crackers or taco chips for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder dip, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
• Substitute fresh spinach with frozen, thoroughly drained spinach for convenience.
• Add chopped artichoke hearts for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Use a blend of cheeses like fontina or gouda to customize the cheesiness.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Note that reheated dip may be less creamy than freshly baked.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just bring it to room temperature before placing it in the oven for best results.

What can I use to serve with this dip?

This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers such as sturdy crackers, tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers.

Everybody’s Favourite Chicago Dip Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 56 reviews

A creamy, cheesy spinach dip baked to perfection, combining cream cheese, fresh spinach, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. This warm Chicago Dip is perfect for parties or casual snacking, delightful when paired with crackers or taco chips.

• Author: Daniel
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dip Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 5 oz fresh spinach, chopped (approximately 1/2 a bag)
• 2 cups mozzarella or Monterey cheese, shredded
• 1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 tsp parsley
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s ready for baking the dip.
2. Prepare Mixture: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth. Then add chopped spinach, pressed garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and taste to adjust salt and pepper accordingly. Finally, stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese until fully combined.
3. Bake the Dip: Spoon the creamy mixture into a small 8 x 8 inch casserole dish, spreading evenly to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the dip is bubbly and heated through.
4. Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately with crackers or taco chips for dipping and enjoying the warm, cheesy goodness.

Notes

• For best flavor, use fresh spinach and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
• You can substitute mozzarella with Monterey Jack cheese for a milder taste.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
• This dip is best served warm, so serve immediately after baking.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Spinach dip, cheesy dip, baked dip, party appetizer, cream cheese dip, Chicago dip