Longhorn Spinach Dip Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy Delight

If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy appetizers that leave your guests asking for more, the legendary Longhorn Spinach Dip is a must-try.

Known for its rich texture, savory flavor, and perfect balance of cheese and spinach, this beloved restaurant-style dip has become a staple at gatherings, game nights, and holiday parties.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to recreate the iconic Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip from scratch, using fresh ingredients and expert techniques to ensure it’s just as delicious, if not better than the original.

Why This Spinach Dip is So Popular

The Longhorn Steakhouse Spinach Dip has earned a cult following for good reason. It’s not your average dip—it’s a decadent blend of cheeses, spinach, and seasonings that’s baked to bubbly perfection. What sets it apart?

• Creamy Texture: Thanks to a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
• Cheesy Goodness: A mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and Monterey Jack for that gooey pull.
• Savory Depth: Garlic, onions, and a hint of spice elevate the flavor profile.
• Versatile: Perfect with chips, bread, or veggies.

Ingredients for Longhorn Spinach Dip

To replicate the authentic flavor of the Longhorn spinach dip, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dairy & Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise

Vegetables

• 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small red bell pepper (optional, finely diced)

Seasonings

• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder

For Serving

• Tortilla chips
• Toasted baguette slices
• Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell peppers)

How to Make Longhorn Spinach Dip

1. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a medium-sized baking dish or cast-iron skillet.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil.
• Sauté the chopped onions until translucent.
• Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
• (Optional) Add red bell pepper for a pop of color and sweetness.

3. Mix the Base

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  • Cream cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Mayonnaise
• Stir until smooth and creamy.

4. Fold in the Flavor

• Add the sautéed vegetables, drained spinach, and all cheeses.
• Mix until well combined.
• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
• Top with a little extra mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden crust.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
• Serve hot with your favorite dippers.

Tips for the Perfect Spinach Dip

To ensure your dip turns out restaurant-quality every time, follow these expert tips:

• Drain Spinach Thoroughly: Excess water can make your dip runny.
• Use Block Cheese: Shredding your own cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
• Soften Cream Cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Customize the Heat: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dip a day in advance and bake before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy spinach dip is incredibly versatile. Here are some crowd-pleasing ways to serve it:

With Bread

• Toasted baguette slices
• Sourdough bread chunks
• Garlic breadsticks

With Veggies

• Carrot sticks
• Celery stalks
• Bell pepper strips
• Cucumber rounds

With Chips

• Tortilla chips
• Pita chips
• Pretzel crisps

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

How to Reheat

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat.

Longhorn Spinach Dip Nutrition Facts and Calories

While indulgent, it’s good to know what you’re consuming. Here’s an approximate nutritional profile per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg

For a lighter version, consider using low-fat dairy alternatives and reducing the cheese content slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese Alternatives

• Swap Monterey Jack for Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.
• Use Gruyère or Fontina for a more gourmet flavor.

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

• Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo.

Add-Ins

• Crumbled bacon
• Diced artichoke hearts
• Sun-dried tomatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Just sauté 4 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and drain well before adding to the mix.

2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

3. Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free dippers like corn tortilla chips or veggie sticks.

4. Can I freeze spinach dip?

While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy. For best results, freeze before baking and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

5. What are the best dippers for spinach dip?

Some of the best options include:

• Tortilla chips
• Pita bread
• Sliced baguette
• Fresh vegetables

Final Thoughts

Recreating the famous Longhorn Spinach Dip at home is not only easy but incredibly rewarding. With its creamy, cheesy texture and rich, savory flavor, this dip is guaranteed to be the star of your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a holiday appetizer, or just indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to wow your guests with a dip that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious.