Get ready to fall in love with a savory snack that’s equal parts gooey, crispy, and absolutely irresistible: Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps. Think of your favorite cheesy spinach dip, but reimagined as ultra-crunchy, snackable crisps perfect for sharing (or not!). They’re easy to put together, deliver all the flavor you crave, and cater to just about any crowd thanks to their low-carb, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly vibe. Whether you’re entertaining or just want a new go-to snack, you’ll find yourself coming back to Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be surprised by how a handful of everyday ingredients come together so spectacularly in this recipe! Each one is carefully chosen to add big flavor, the perfect texture, and that classic, nostalgic color of spinach dip—all baked into crisp perfection.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melty and mild, it’s the backbone of each crisp, making them stretchy and delicious.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty punch and an addictive crunch after baking.
- Frozen chopped spinach: Just half a cup is all you need for color and earthiness—make sure it’s well-squeezed for best results.
- Sour cream: Lends a little tang and creamy depth, mimicking classic dip flavors.
- Cream cheese: Binds everything together while adding a luxuriously smooth texture.
- Mayonnaise: A secret weapon for richness—just a tablespoon does wonders without overpowering.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for a fragrant kick that sets these crisps apart.
- Onion powder: Subtle but essential in amping up that “dip” taste profile.
- Salt: Ensures all the flavors pop, so don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the magic temperature that crisps the cheese perfectly without burning. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—trust me, this step is a must for easy cleanup and getting those crispy bottoms.
Step 2: Combine All the Good Stuff
In a medium mixing bowl, add your shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, thawed and squeezed-dry spinach, sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly so every bit of spinach is coated and the whole mixture becomes one beautifully cheesy, green-flecked blend. Don’t rush this part—the more it’s combined, the better the flavor and texture!
Step 3: Portion the Crisps
Using a tablespoon, scoop out mounds of the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Give each crisp about 2 inches of space on all sides—cheese tends to spread as it bakes. Flatten each mound slightly with the back of your spoon to help them crisp evenly and bake up with that signature lacy look.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep a close eye as the edges start to turn golden brown and the centers bubble like your favorite hot spinach dip! Every oven is a little different, so check at the 12-minute mark. If you like a deeper crunch, let them go the full 15.
Step 5: Cool and Crisp Up
When your Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps are just right, let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes. This helps set their structure. Then transfer gently to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, they crisp up even more, transforming from bubbly mounds to shatteringly crunchy bites.
How to Serve Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps
Garnishes
Top your crisps with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a dash of red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh chives for a pop of color. Not only do these touches make your Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps look stunning on a plate, but they add little bursts of flavor and visual excitement.
Side Dishes
Pair Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps with a bright, zippy salad for contrast, or serve them alongside a platter of roasted veggies. They’re also right at home next to a bowl of fresh tomato salsa or a tangy yogurt dip—just the thing for a balanced appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your crisps on a rustic wooden board for an impressive appetizer, or use them as crunchy “chips” for scooping up more dips. They’re also fantastic as a topper for creamy soups—swap out croutons for a burst of spinach dip flavor and irresistible crunch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps (if you have any!) should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Their texture is at its peak on the day they’re made, but a tight seal can help keep them crispy a little longer.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled crisps in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or ziptop bag. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When stored this way, Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps keep for up to two months, making them a great make-ahead option.
Reheating
To bring back the crunch after freezing or storing, place the crisps on a baking tray and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. This little blast of heat revives their texture and gets them tasting freshly baked again—just let them cool slightly before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just chop the fresh spinach finely, sauté briefly to wilt, then squeeze out any excess liquid. Using fresh spinach gives your Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps a brighter color and subtle fresh flavor.
What’s the best way to squeeze spinach dry?
After thawing, gather your spinach up in a clean kitchen towel or a few layers of paper towels, then twist and squeeze hard over the sink. You want the spinach to be as dry as possible—any leftover moisture can make the crisps soggy.
Can I make Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps dairy-free?
It’s possible with dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well, plus vegan versions of sour cream and cream cheese. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavors can be just as tempting.
How do I prevent the crisps from sticking to the baking sheet?
Parchment paper is key! It creates a nonstick barrier, so your Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps lift right off once cool. Silicone baking mats work wonderfully as well if you have one.
Can I add other mix-ins to customize the flavor?
Of course! Chopped sun-dried tomatoes, a little crumbled bacon, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring a new dimension to your crisps. Just avoid adding extra moisture—stick to dry or pre-cooked add-ins for best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to raise the snack game at your next gathering or just want a ridiculously tasty treat for movie night, Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps are a must-try. Their crispy, cheesy cheer is bound to turn anyone into a fan—so why not whip up a batch and watch them disappear?
Print
Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 crisps
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps are a delightful combination of cheesy goodness with a hint of spinach, perfect for a low-carb snack or appetizer. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Cheese Crisps:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Spinach Dip Mixture:
- 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form Crisps: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, flatten slightly with a spoon.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve: Enjoy these crispy delights as a snack or appetizer.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is well-drained to avoid sogginess.
- Best served the same day for maximum crunch.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 crisp
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
