Creamy spinach dips are good in theory, but sometimes they're a bit boring. This Cheddar's copycat makes spinach dip the star of your next party with onion, jalapeno, and green chiles.
1 package (8 ounce size) cream cheese, softened
1 cup half and half
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
1 can (4 ounce size) chopped green chiles
1 onion, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
1 package (10 ounce size) chopped frozen spinach, thawed and excess liquid squeezed out
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly grease a 8-inch baking pan.
Place the cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Stir in the half and half until completely blended.
Stir in the Monterey jack cheese, green chiles, onion, jalapeno and spinach. Mix well.
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan. Bake at 400 degrees F for 30 minutes or until bubbly.
Serve hot with tortilla chips.
Chop the onion and jalapeno finely.
Make sure the spinach is well-drained to prevent the dip from being watery.
For extra flavor, add a clove of minced garlic to the mixture.
Serve in a chafing dish or crock pot to keep the dip warm for guests.
Try adding artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or spices as needed.
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Cook down 1 pound of fresh spinach first, then chop and squeeze out any excess moisture.
You can use a mixture of milk and cream, or just milk for a lighter version.
Monterey Jack is preferred for its melting quality and light flavor, but you can also use mozzarella or white cheddar.
Yes, you can omit the jalapeno for a milder dip.
Yes, you can prepare it, refrigerate, and bake it just before serving.
Use low-fat cream cheese, low-fat cheese, and low-fat milk to make a lighter version but note that the texture might be slightly different.
Reheat in the microwave or oven (at 350 degrees F) until warmed through.
It doesn't freeze very well as the texture will change after freezing and thawing.
Besides tortilla chips, try pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the cream cheese, half-and-half, Monterey jack cheese, green chiles, onion, jalapeno, and spinach to create the creamy spinach dip mixture before baking.
Measuring Cup: For measuring out the half-and-half and shredded Monterey jack cheese.
Mixing Spoon: For stirring the mixture in the bowl.
8-Inch Baking Pan: Lightly greased and used to bake the spinach dip mixture until bubbly.
Non-traditional Nachos: take your standard nacho toppings and swap out the typical cheese sauce for a scoop of this creamy spinach dip. The spicy kick from the jalapenos and green chiles will up your nacho game to a whole new level.
Stuffed Mushrooms: hollow out some baby bella mushrooms and stuff them with a dollop of this decadent spinach dip. The richness of the dip will perfectly complement the earthy flavors of the mushrooms, creating a bite-sized snack that will disappear in seconds.
Baked Potato Topping: instead of your usual sour cream and chives, try topping a baked potato with a generous spoonful of this spinach dip. The creamy texture and bold flavors will take your potato to the next level - goodbye boring baked potato, hello gourmet spud.
Quesadilla Dip: take your quesadillas to the next level by serving this spinach dip on the side for dipping. The creamy, spicy flavors will add a whole new dimension to your quesadilla experience - you'll never want to settle for plain old salsa again.
Wine Pairings
Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine with its zesty acidity and herbaceous notes can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich creaminess of the spinach dip. Look for one with citrus flavors like grapefruit or lemon to add an extra kick.
Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay can hold its own with the creamy texture of the dip. Look for one that has been oak-aged for a hint of vanilla and a touch of richness that can enhance the flavors of the dish.
Merlot: If you prefer red wine, a fruit-forward Merlot with its soft tannins and notes of plum and cherry can be a surprising match for the spinach dip. The slight sweetness can balance out the spice from the jalapenos and green chiles.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Pale Ale: The hoppy bitterness of a pale ale can cut through the richness of the spinach dip, while the malty sweetness provides a nice balance. Look for a pale ale with citrusy or floral notes to complement the flavors in the dip.
Margarita: A classic margarita with its refreshing lime juice and tequila kick can be a fun pairing with the spicy kick from the jalapenos in the dip. The salt rim can help enhance the flavors.
Moscow Mule: The ginger beer in a Moscow Mule can provide a nice contrast to the creamy spinach dip, while the lime juice adds a citrusy zing. The copper mug can also make you feel extra fancy while enjoying your dip.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Iced Tea: A tall glass of sweet or unsweetened iced tea can be a simple pairing for the spinach dip. The refreshing nature of the tea can help cleanse your palate in between bites of the rich and creamy dip.
Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade can complement the richness of the dip, creating a nice balance of flavors. Whether you prefer classic lemonade or a flavored variation, it can be a great non-alcoholic option for sipping alongside your appetizer.
Ginger Ale: The bubbly and slightly spicy kick of ginger ale can be a nice pairing with the creamy spinach dip.
Pumpkins aren't just for pies or Halloween decorations. These large, orange gourds - while naturally sweet - also work well in savory dishes. They pair well with poultry and pork (and especially bacon) and their creamy-when-cooked texture blends easily into soups.
Ah, the unassuming envelope of onion soup mix. It's more than just for onion soup (or dip). It adds tremendous flavor (and convenience) in all these recipes.
Love the spinach dip at restaurants like TGIFriday's and the Olive Garden? Make it at home with these easy-to-follow copycat recipes.
reviews & comments
November 11, 2019
This is a tasty recipe although I dont think it quite tastes like Chedars spinach dip. I was a little surprised this recipe didnt call for garlic or any seasoning. I would also like to add a little sour cream next time and a little less onion.
July 24, 2014
The onion, jalapeno, and chili peppers give it an uplifting, tangy flavor, mellowed by the cheeses. Delicious with tortillas, as suggested, but also on sturdy chips or even on crostini.
June 27, 2014
An instant party hit!
November 3, 2013
Nice and spicy but the cream cheese and half and half sort of balance it so your mouth isn't on fire either.
June 30, 2013
I haven't eaten at Cheddar's but I consider myself a bit of a spinach dip expert. This recipe is delicious! It's got a good texture and just the right bite to it with the jalepenos. I used the hotter green chiles but mild would be fine for those who don't like that extra kick to it.
February 26, 2011
This was very easy to make and was a big hit at our get together. Very very close to Cheddar's version!