Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort with this Creamy Tuscan Dip! Imagine a blend of creamy cheeses, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all baked to bubbly perfection. This dip is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, this one’s going to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella creates an irresistible texture.
- Flavorful and Savory: Sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning add a burst of Tuscan flavors.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this dip a breeze.
- Versatile Appetizer: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday parties.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Tuscan Dip:
- Cream Cheese: Provides a creamy and tangy base.
- Sour Cream: Adds richness and tanginess.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
- Minced Garlic: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs for a classic Tuscan taste.
- Salt: Balances the flavors.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Adds a sweet and tangy burst of flavor.
- Spinach: Adds a touch of freshness and color.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Dip
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 1-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese and Sour Cream
In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese and sour cream. Mix with a hand mixer until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Fold in sun-dried tomatoes and spinach until combined.
Step 4: Bake the Dip
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve warm with sliced bread, baguette, or crackers.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Drain the Spinach Well: Squeeze out excess water from the thawed spinach to prevent a watery dip.
- Use Quality Cheeses: High-quality cheeses enhance the flavor of the dip.
- Customize with Add-Ins: Add other ingredients like artichoke hearts or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Dip
- With Sliced Baguette: Perfect for dipping and scooping.
- With Crackers: A classic pairing for any dip.
- With Vegetable Sticks: Add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a healthy option.
- With Toasted Pita Bread: Adds a crunchy texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of thawed spinach?
- Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but ensure it is thawed and drained well.
2. Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic?
- Yes, you can use fresh garlic. Mince it finely before adding to the dip.
3. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this dip?
- Yes, you can add other vegetables like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms.
Enjoy this warm and cheesy Creamy Tuscan Dip Recipe!
Print
Creamy Tuscan Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Description
This Creamy Tuscan Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or gatherings. A blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan is mixed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian seasonings, then baked until bubbly and golden. Serve it with your favorite bread, crackers, or vegetables for a delicious and crowd-pleasing dip.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 6 ounces spinach, thawed and drained
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a 1-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- Combine Cream Cheese and Sour Cream:
- In a medium-sized bowl, add the cream cheese and sour cream.
- Mix with a hand mixer and blend until smooth.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Add the minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning to the cream cheese mixture.
- Fold in Tomatoes and Spinach:
- Fold in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach until combined.
- Bake:
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it is heated throughout and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with sliced bread, a baguette, or crackers.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent a watery dip.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and Italian seasoning to your preference.
- You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just sauté it until wilted and drain well.
- You may add artichoke hearts.
- For added heat, add red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 280kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
