Hot Spinach Spread with Pita Chips

Introduction: A Spread to Impress

There’s something magical about a warm, creamy dip fresh out of the oven, bubbling with cheesy goodness and packed with vibrant spinach. It’s the kind of comfort food that beckons everyone at the table to gather around and dig in. This Hot Spinach Spread with Pita Chips is a showstopper—perfect for casual hangouts, holiday gatherings, or simply satisfying your craving for something indulgent yet wholesome.

I first discovered this gem at a friend’s party, where it was the centerpiece of the snack table. I still remember the oohs and aahs from guests as they swooped up the creamy, cheesy spinach with crispy pita chips. Naturally, I couldn’t leave without asking for the recipe!

What I love most about this dish is how easily it comes together with simple, everyday ingredients. It’s versatile, too—you can make it as indulgent or as light as you like. Plus, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, even for those who aren’t typically spinach fans.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe checks all the boxes for an easy, irresistible appetizer. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Quick and easy: The prep time is minimal, and you don’t need fancy kitchen skills to whip this up.
• Crowd-pleasing flavors: The creamy cheese base, hints of garlic, and the freshness of spinach create a perfect balance.
• Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences—make it spicier, add more veggies, or switch up the cheeses.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a family movie night or a potluck party, this dip is always a hit.
• Pairs perfectly: Serve it with pita chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for a complete snacking experience.

Each bite of this hot spinach spread is like a warm hug—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. And trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your appetizer repertoire.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep + 20 minutes baking)
• Servings: Serves 6-8 as an appetizer
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this simple yet luxurious dish:

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

pita chips:

• 4 whole wheat pita breads, cut into triangles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1st Step Prepare the spinach spread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
   • Tip: If your cream cheese is too firm, microwave it for 10 seconds to soften it.
3. Add the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the chopped spinach, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.

2nd Step: Assemble and bake

1. Transfer the spinach mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the dip is bubbling.
   • Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for an extra crispy top, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.

3rd Step: Make the pita chips

1. While the dip bakes, prepare your pita chips. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if not already hot.
2. Arrange the pita triangles on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt.
3. Toss the triangles gently to coat evenly, then spread them out in a single layer.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and lightly golden.

4th Step: Serve and enjoy

1. Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color.
2. Serve the hot spinach spread alongside your freshly baked pita chips.

How to Serve

This Hot Spinach Spread is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Scoop it up with crispy pita chips or crackers.
• Serve with an assortment of fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a lighter option.
• Use it as a filling for mini pastry cups for an elegant appetizer.
• Spread it over toasted baguette slices for a crostini-style snack.

For the ultimate presentation, serve the dip straight from the baking dish with the pita chips arranged in a bowl nearby.

Additional Tips

1. Use fresh spinach for the best flavor: If using frozen, make sure to squeeze out all excess water to avoid a watery dip.
2. Experiment with cheese blends: Try sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a twist.
3. Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the mixture before baking and tweak the spices or salt as needed.
4. Make it ahead: You can prepare the dip a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it fresh when ready to serve.
5. Double the batch: If serving a large crowd, this recipe doubles easily!

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Spinach Dip: Add a dash of cayenne or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and mayonnaise for a healthier twist.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Add a layer of shredded Gouda or sharp cheddar on top for extra decadence.
• Herbed Pita Chips: Add a pinch of fresh parsley or rosemary to the pita chip seasoning for added aroma.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked dip for up to 3 months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Special Equipment

• Mixing Bowl: For blending the creamy base and spinach.
• Baking Dish: An 8×8-inch dish works perfectly.
• Wire Rack: Optional but helps keep pita chips crispy.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is a great option and gives the dish a vibrant color and fresh flavor. If you’re using fresh spinach, you’ll want to sauté it in a little olive oil or butter to wilt it before adding it to the dip. Once it’s wilted, drain any excess liquid before mixing it into the dip mixture.

2. What if I don’t have pita bread for the chips?
No worries! You can substitute the pita with any type of chips or crackers you prefer. Tortilla chips, bagel chips, or even sliced and toasted baguette can work wonderfully. You can also serve the dip with fresh veggies, such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers, for a healthier alternative.

3. How do I make the dip spicier?
If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the dip mixture. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your personal spice preference.

4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the spinach dip the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it as instructed. If you prefer, you can even freeze the dip (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it back in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or microwave it in 30-second intervals until hot. Pita chips are best when eaten fresh, but you can store any leftovers in a sealed bag for a day or two.

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Conclusion

This Hot Spinach Spread with Pita Chips is one of those recipes that brings everyone together. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight snacking to holiday parties and everything in between. The creamy spinach dip paired with the crispy, seasoned pita chips is truly a match made in heaven.

What I love most is how versatile this dish can be—whether you stick with the classic version or get creative with added ingredients, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to experiment with variations like adding more cheese, herbs, or spices to suit your taste!

I hope you enjoy making (and devouring) this Hot Spinach Spread as much as I do. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends and family, and I’m sure it’ll become a staple in your appetizer rotation. Let me know how it turns out—tag me in your photos or drop a comment below. I’d love to hear all about your version!

Now, go ahead and dig in, and enjoy every cheesy, spinach-filled bite!