Save It A festive, creamy spinach dip served in a warm, crusty bread bowl—perfect for holiday gatherings and quick to prepare.
This recipe became a holiday favorite as it combines ease with festive presentation making every gathering special.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 500 g)
- Spinach Dip: 300 g (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained well, 250 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened, 120 g (1/2 cup) sour cream, 120 g (1/2 cup) mayonnaise, 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Garnish & Dippers: 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional, for color), sourdough bread pieces (from hollowed loaf) or assorted crackers and veggies
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare bread bowl:
- Slice the top off the sourdough loaf and carefully hollow out the center, leaving about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of bread around the edges to form a bowl. Reserve the removed bread for dipping.
- Mix dip:
- In a large bowl, mix together the spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Fill bread bowl:
- Spoon the spinach mixture into the bread bowl. Sprinkle diced red bell pepper over the top for a festive touch, if desired.
- Bake:
- Place the filled bread bowl on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the bread is lightly crisp.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with the reserved bread pieces, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Save It This dish always brings my family together around the table sharing stories and laughter while enjoying each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon to complement the creamy dip.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, milk, and egg depending on mayonnaise type; always check ingredient labels.
Tips for Perfect Dip
Make sure to drain spinach very well so the dip is not watery and bake until bubbly for the best texture.
Save It This spinach dip bread bowl is a quick festive appetizer that impresses guests and comforts family alike.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used but it should be cooked, drained, and chopped thoroughly to remove excess water before mixing to maintain the right dip consistency.
- → What is the best bread for the bread bowl?
A sturdy round sourdough loaf works best as it holds the dip well and crisps nicely when baked.
- → How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Leaving about 1 inch of bread around the edges helps create a firm bowl. Additionally, baking the filled bread bowl ensures a crisp outer crust and warm dip.
- → Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes, the dip mixture can be made a day before and refrigerated. Bake it just before serving to keep it fresh and bubbly.
- → What are good dipping options besides bread pieces?
Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or crackers add variety and complement the creamy dip nicely.
- → Can other cheeses be used in the dip?
Parmesan and mozzarella provide balanced flavor and melt, but you can substitute or add cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere for a different twist.