Save A creamy, flavorful spinach dip served in a crusty bread bowl is perfect for parties and gatherings. Easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and always a crowd favorite.
I first made this for a family holiday party and everyone kept coming back for seconds. Serving the dip in a bread bowl makes it extra special and fun for everyone to share.
Ingredients
- Bread: 1 large round sourdough loaf (about 1 lb/450 g)
- Frozen chopped spinach: 10 oz (285 g), thawed and well-drained
- Sour cream: 1 cup (240 g)
- Mayonnaise: 1 cup (225 g)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (120 g)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Chopped green onions: 1/4 cup (30 g)
- Diced water chestnuts: 1/2 cup (60 g, optional, for crunch)
- Garlic: 1 small clove, minced
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Dried dill weed: 1/2 tsp
- Assorted raw vegetables: for serving (carrots, celery, bell peppers)
- Extra bread cubes: from bread bowl or additional loaf, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare bread bowl:
- Cut a circle from the top of the sourdough loaf and scoop out the inside to create a bowl. Cut the removed bread into bite sized cubes for dipping.
- Mix dip ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, water chestnuts (if using), garlic, salt, pepper, and dill. Mix until fully blended.
- Fill bread bowl:
- Spoon the spinach dip mixture into the hollowed bread bowl.
- Bake:
- Place the filled bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, until the dip is warmed through and cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Arrange bread cubes and assorted vegetables around the bread bowl for dipping. Serve immediately.
Save Scooping out the bread together with my kids is always a fun way to start party prep in our home. Everyone delights in tearing bread pieces for dipping and sneaking a taste before guests arrive.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this spinach dip with crisp white wines or sparkling water. Serve on a large platter as the centerpiece at gatherings for easy sharing and snacking.
Variations
Stir in chopped artichoke hearts for extra flavor or swap the sourdough for other sturdy breads like pumpernickel. Add a pinch of chili flakes if you want some heat.
Allergen and Nutrition Info
Contains wheat, milk, and eggs (depending on mayonnaise brand). Each serving provides approximately 285 calories, 18 g fat, 22 g carbohydrates, and 7 g protein.
Save This spinach dip in a bread bowl is a true party classic. Make it once and it will become your go to appetizer for any festive occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I prepare the dip in advance?
Yes, the dip can be assembled and refrigerated before baking. You can also serve it chilled without baking for a fresh option.
- → What kind of bread works best for the bowl?
Around sourdough or any large crusty loaf holds the dip well and provides a sturdy base for scooping.
- → Are water chestnuts necessary?
Water chestnuts add a pleasant crunch but are optional. You can omit or substitute with another crunchy vegetable.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for a lighter dip?
Yes, replacing part of the sour cream or mayonnaise with Greek yogurt lightens the texture without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I serve the dip?
Serve it hot from the oven with cut bread cubes and an assortment of raw vegetables for dipping.