You know, there’s just something about a cheesy, gooey dip that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. Especially when it’s infused with the vibrant zest of a fiesta and the wholesome goodness of spinach—it’s a celebration in a bowl. Remember those summer nights when the grill was hot and the laughter endless? This dip brings back all those memories, but with a cheesy twist that you just can’t resist.
Steps
- Start by preparing your slow cooker. Either spray it with cooking spray for easier cleanup or use a disposable slow cooker liner. This will make cleaning up afterwards much simpler.
- Add 9 oz. of frozen spinach to the bottom of the slow cooker. You can use fresh spinach if you prefer, but frozen offers great convenience.
- Place an 8 oz. block of cream cheese and between ½ to ¾ cup of sour cream into the slow cooker. Ensure the ingredients are spread evenly over the spinach.
- Add 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. You can use either freshly shredded or store-bought pre-shredded cheese according to your preference.
- Pour in a 10 oz. can of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies) without draining it. This adds a flavorful kick to the dip.
- Include at least 2 tablespoons of chopped jalapeños, choosing either fresh or pickled based on your taste preference. Adjust the quantity for more heat if desired.
- Season with ½ teaspoon each of salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and dried cilantro. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon of cumin for additional flavor.
- Set the slow cooker to high and let the mixture cook for 2 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and melting.
- Once done, garnish the dip with diced green onions or fresh cilantro for a festive touch. Serve the dip warm.
- Pair the dip with your choice of crackers, chips, or vegetable sticks. For a more filling option, offer toasted baguette slices or pita chips. Optionally, top with diced red peppers for extra color.
Ingredients
- 9 oz frozen spinach
- 8 oz block of cream cheese
- ½ to ¾ cup sour cream
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 oz can of Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chili)
- At least 2 tablespoons chopped jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried cilantro
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- Green onions for garnish
FAQ
- Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen for this dip?
- Yes, both fresh and frozen spinach can be used in this recipe. If you opt for frozen spinach, you don’t need to drain it before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Do I need to drain the Rotel before adding it to the dip?
- No, you do not need to drain the Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chili) before adding it to the dip. The liquid contributes to the flavor and texture of the dip.
- Is it better to use fresh or pre-shredded cheddar cheese?
- While freshly shredded cheddar cheese is preferred for its creaminess and ease of melting, pre-shredded cheese can also be used if that’s more convenient for you.
- Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled ones in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use either fresh or pickled jalapeños in this recipe, depending on your preference for flavor and spice level.
- What are some good garnishing options for this spinach dip?
- Diced green onions are a popular garnish for this dip, but you can also use fresh cilantro or diced red peppers for a festive touch.
Tips
- Consider using fresh or frozen spinach based on convenience, but if you choose frozen, you can add it directly to the slow cooker without thawing or draining, which simplifies the preparation process.
- For the best consistency and flavor, freshly shred your cheddar cheese as it melts more smoothly and offers a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese; however, pre-shredded can be used if you are short on time.
- When adding Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chili), do not drain the can. The liquid adds extra flavor and moisture to the dip.
- Garnish with diced green onions for a fresh taste, or consider using fresh cilantro for an additional burst of flavor.
Equipment
- Crockpot/Slow Cooker: Essential for cooking and serving the dip while keeping it warm throughout your event.
- Disposable Slow Cooker Liners: Makes cleanup much easier by lining the crockpot, preventing food from sticking to the sides.
- Cooking Spray: Useful for greasing the inside of the crockpot if you choose not to use a liner.
- Cheese Grater: If you decide to shred your own cheese, a cheese grater would be necessary.
- Measuring Spoons: Needed for accurately measuring spices and other small quantities of ingredients.
