Go Back
–+ servings

Witches' Brew Spinach Dip

Looking for a spooktacular appetizer for your Halloween bash? Try the Witches' Brew Spinach Dip! This creamy, savory dip emerged in the mid-20th century and has since become a party staple.
You'll combine spinach, cream cheese, and sour cream with a dash of magic (aka spices) to create a bubbling cauldron of deliciousness. Serve it in a hollowed-out pumpkin for maximum witchy vibes, and watch your guests gather 'round like moths to a flame.
With just 35 minutes of prep and cooking time, you'll conjure up a dip that's sure to cast a spell on everyone. Ready to uncover the secrets of this bewitching recipe?
Servings 8
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Oven
  • Food Processor (optional)
  • Spatula
  • Pumpkin (optional)

Ingredients

  • 16 oz spinach (frozen, thawed and drained, chopped)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • ¼ cup onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp dill (dried)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  • Thaw and Drain Spinach
    Before diving into the mixing process, you'll need to properly prepare the spinach. Start by taking your frozen spinach out of the freezer well in advance. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave if you're short on time.
    Once thawed, it's essential to remove excess moisture. Why? Because too much liquid can make your dip watery and less appetizing.
    To drain the spinach effectively, place it in a colander and press down firmly with your hands or the back of a spoon. You'll be surprised at how much water comes out!
    For an even drier result, wrap the spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any remaining liquid. Don't be afraid to use some muscle here - the drier your spinach, the better your dip will be.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients
    Now that your spinach is perfectly drained, let's move on to mixing the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, you'll want to combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise.
    Don't worry if the cream cheese is a bit firm; it'll soften as you mix. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to blend these ingredients until they're smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the base of your dip, so take your time to guarantee it's well combined.
    Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl. This will give your dip a savory, umami flavor that'll have your guests coming back for more.
    As you mix, consider how the cheese will melt and incorporate into the dip during baking. Isn't it fascinating how these simple ingredients transform into something so delicious?
    Once you've achieved a uniform consistency, it's time to add the chopped onion and minced garlic. These aromatics will infuse your dip with a depth of flavor that'll make it truly irresistible.
    Are you ready to take your dip to the next level?
  • Add Dry Ingredients
    The excitement builds as you prepare to add the dry ingredients, transforming your creamy base into a flavorful masterpiece.
    Reach for your carefully measured Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle it into the bowl. Can you already imagine the depth it'll bring to your dip?
    Next, it's time for the aromatic additions. Finely chopped onion and minced garlic join the mix, promising to awaken the taste buds of your Halloween guests.
    Now, let's explore the spice blend that'll give your Witches' Brew its distinctive charm. Dried dill is your secret weapon, adding a subtle herbal note.
    Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper, essential for balancing flavors. Don't forget the paprika; it'll lend a gentle warmth and a hint of color.
    Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne for a devilish kick.
    As you fold these dry ingredients into your creamy base, you'll notice the mixture taking on a more complex aroma.
    You're not just making a dip; you're crafting a potion that'll captivate your guests.
    Ready to give it a taste?
  • Transfer to Baking Dish
    With your Witches' Brew Spinach Dip thoroughly mixed, it's time to prepare it for baking. Grab your chosen baking dish or, if you're feeling particularly festive, a hollowed-out pumpkin. Can you imagine the looks on your guests' faces when they see that spooky serving bowl?
    Before transferring the dip, give it one last stir to verify everything's evenly distributed. Now, carefully spoon the mixture into your dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Don't worry about making it perfect – a slightly uneven surface will add to the "witchy" aesthetic.
    If you're using a pumpkin, remember to brush the inside with olive oil and sprinkle some salt for extra flavor.
    Want to add a final touch of magic? Sprinkle a bit of paprika or dried herbs on top for a pop of color. You could even use these to create a spiderweb pattern or other Halloween-themed design.
    Ready to bake? Pop your creation into the preheated oven and let the heat work its spell. In just 20 minutes, you'll have a bubbling cauldron of deliciousness!
  • Bake Until Hot and Bubbly
    Having prepared your wickedly delicious spinach dip, it's time to let the oven work its magic. Preheat your cauldron (oven) to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it's hot enough to bring your concoction to life.
    Carefully transfer your dip mixture into a baking dish or, for an extra spooky touch, a hollowed-out pumpkin. Don't you think that'd make for a ghoulishly good presentation?
    Now, slide your creation into the preheated oven and let it bubble and brew for about 20 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the surface is golden and the edges are delightfully bubbly. Can you already imagine the tantalizing aroma filling your kitchen?
    As you wait, why not prepare some eerie accompaniments? Arrange crackers, breadsticks, or vegetable crudités in the shape of a spider's web or a graveyard scene.
    Once your dip is hot and bubbling, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes – remember, patience is a virtue, even for witches! This cooling period allows the flavors to meld and prevents any burned tongues at your Halloween bash.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tbspCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 5gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 54mgSodium: 427mgPotassium: 409mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 5955IUVitamin C: 17mgCalcium: 154mgIron: 2mg
Calories: 280kcal
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Creative Halloween dip recipes, Halloween, Healthy Halloween snacks for parties, Make-ahead Halloween recipes, Quick Halloween appetizers to make, Savory Halloween snacks for gatherings, Spooky appetizer ideas for Halloween, Witch-themed party food ideas, Witches’ Brew Spinach Dip recipe