Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip

Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip takes the classic creamy spinach dip and elevates it with a golden, crispy Parmesan topping. Perfectly rich and cheesy inside, with a satisfying crunch on top, this appetizer is an instant crowd-pleaser for parties, holidays, or game days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip delivers the best of both worlds: a warm, creamy, cheesy interior and a crisp, flavorful crust. It’s easy to make ahead, bakes in under 40 minutes, and pairs perfectly with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. The Parmesan-panko topping adds texture and a savory punch that makes this spinach dip stand out from the rest.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dip:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
12 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
3 teaspoons garlic, minced
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper

For the Parmesan Topping:
1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
½ cup panko bread crumbs
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 1.5-quart baking dish with non-stick spray.

2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, spinach, garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and crushed red pepper. Mix well and spread into prepared baking dish.

3. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes.

4. While baking, prepare topping by mixing Parmesan, panko, mayonnaise, garlic, and parsley in a bowl.

5. Remove dip from oven, stir to combine, then sprinkle topping evenly over dip.

6. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, then turn broiler on to brown and crisp the topping for 2–5 minutes (watch closely).

7. Serve hot with pita chips, tortilla chips, or veggie sticks.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 233 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add chopped artichoke hearts for a spinach-artichoke dip twist.

• Use Gruyère or Fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a richer flavor.

• Add a pinch of nutmeg for subtle warmth.

• Make it spicier by increasing the crushed red pepper or adding diced jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. For best texture, reheat in the oven to crisp the topping again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, sauté 10–12 ounces of fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and squeeze out excess moisture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dip without the topping, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake and add topping before serving.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Bake uncovered and broil briefly before serving to re-crisp the top.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free panko bread crumbs.

Can I freeze spinach dip?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy texture may separate.

What can I serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips, pita chips, crackers, breadsticks, or fresh vegetables work well.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?

Yes, but the dip may be slightly less rich and creamy.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Add an extra ½ cup of mozzarella to the dip mixture.

Can I prepare it in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, it makes for a rustic presentation and helps retain heat.

Is this dip very spicy?

No, it has just a mild kick from the crushed red pepper, which you can adjust to taste.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip is an irresistible warm appetizer with a creamy, cheesy base and a crispy, savory topping. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to be the hit of any gathering. Serve it hot and watch it disappear in minutes.

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