If you’re searching for a creamy, flavor-packed appetizer that wins over every crowd, look no further than Spinach Ranch Dip. This irresistible dip is a true classic, brimming with tender spinach, cool ranch spice, and a trio of luscious dairy ingredients that bring the whole bowl together. It’s the secret weapon of potlucks, game days, and quiet nights at home—effortless to whip up, endlessly customizable, and eaten down to the last scoop every single time. Whether you’re planning a lively party or a casual hangout, this Spinach Ranch Dip always shines brightly on the snack table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Spinach Ranch Dip couldn’t be more straightforward, yet each element plays a starring role. From the rich creaminess to the savory ranch kick and satisfying spinach, every addition adds color, flavor, and great texture to the final dip.
- Frozen chopped spinach (10 oz package): Be sure it’s fully thawed and drained; this gives the dip its vibrant green color and classic veggie bite.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Lends a refreshing tang that balances the richness and keeps things light.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Provides body and a creamy backbone for the dip’s dreamy texture.
- Cream cheese, softened (½ cup): Adds decadence and ensures a smooth, spreadable base.
- Ranch seasoning mix (1 oz packet): Delivers that herby, zesty ranch flavor everyone loves—no need to measure a slew of spices!
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a mellow, savory warmth throughout every bite.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Rounds out the dip’s flavor and elevates the ranch profile.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and sharpness that balances the dairy richness.
- Green onions, finely chopped (½ cup): Brings freshness, a mild crunch, and a pop of color.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup, optional): If you’re feeling extra decadent, toss this in for melty, cheesy goodness!
How to Make Spinach Ranch Dip
Step 1: Drain the Spinach Thoroughly
Start by taking your thawed spinach and squeezing out every bit of moisture using either a clean kitchen towel or layers of paper towels. This ensures your Spinach Ranch Dip isn’t watery, so you get nothing but rich, creamy bites from start to finish.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese. Use a sturdy spoon or a hand mixer and blend until everything is silky-smooth, with no lumps in sight. This is the delicious foundation of your dip!
Step 3: Add Ranch and Spices
Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until these seasonings are evenly distributed, infusing the base with that signature tangy-herby ranch flavor that defines this dip.
Step 4: Fold in Spinach and Extras
Gently fold the well-drained spinach into the creamy mixture, followed by the chopped green onions. If you want a boost of richness and color, add the shredded cheddar cheese, too. Mix until everything is well-incorporated, being careful not to overwork it.
Step 5: Chill for Best Flavor
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors in your Spinach Ranch Dip to mingle and deepen, turning a good dip into an incredible one.
How to Serve Spinach Ranch Dip
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of extra chopped green onions, a handful of freshly cracked black pepper, or even a dusting of cheddar for eye-catching color right before serving. These simple garnishes elevate the presentation and hint at the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This dip is made for scooping! Surround it with crackers, tortilla chips, baguette slices, or crisp vegetables like baby carrots, bell peppers, celery sticks, and cucumber rounds. Your guests will love discovering new pairings with every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try serving Spinach Ranch Dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic centerpiece—guests can pull off pieces of bread as they go. Or divide it into mini cups for individual servings, making it extra fun and easy to enjoy at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spinach Ranch Dip should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it the perfect make-ahead snack for busy weeks or late-night cravings.
Freezing
While you can technically freeze this dip, the texture of the dairy ingredients may change upon thawing, becoming a bit grainy. If you do freeze it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir before serving.
Reheating
Spinach Ranch Dip is best enjoyed chilled, but if you’d like to serve it slightly warm, gently heat it in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until just warmed through—don’t overheat, or it may separate.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just cook down about 10 ounces of fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and cool it before using. Be sure to squeeze out all excess liquid, just as you would with frozen spinach.
Is there a lighter version of Spinach Ranch Dip?
Yes! Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream, use light mayo, and consider reduced-fat cream cheese. The dip will still have a great creamy taste, just with fewer calories.
Can I make Spinach Ranch Dip ahead of time?
Definitely. In fact, making it a few hours (or even a day) in advance helps the flavors blend beautifully. Just store, covered, in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Do I have to include the cheddar cheese?
Nope! The cheddar cheese is completely optional. Leave it out for a lighter, tangier dip or add it for that extra depth and a pop of color.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning mix?
If you’re out of ranch seasoning, you can whip up a quick homemade version with dried dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust to your liking!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to Spinach Ranch Dip or it’s a longtime favorite, this recipe is the kind you’ll come back to over and over again. Every spoonful is creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh flavor—and it’s always the first to vanish at any gathering. Ready to wow your friends, family, and yourself? Whip up a bowl and watch it disappear!
Print
Spinach Ranch Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Spinach Ranch Dip is a creamy and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or gatherings. It combines the freshness of spinach with the zesty flavors of ranch seasoning, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- ½ cup finely chopped green onions
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Spinach: Thoroughly squeeze excess moisture from the thawed spinach using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream cheese until smooth. Add ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Combine: Fold in chopped spinach, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve chilled with crackers, chips, or fresh veggies.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- For a fun presentation, serve the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
