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Spinach dip in a bread bowl 1
Lucy

Creamy Spinach Dip in a Bread Bowl

This spinach dip in a bread bowl is the ultimate party appetizer, combining a rich, cheesy spinach dip with a crispy, golden-brown bread bowl. Whether served hot or cold, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for game days, holidays, and family gatherings!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 –8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bread Bowl:
  • 1 round sourdough or French bread loaf day-old bread works best
For the Spinach Dip:
  • 2 cups frozen spinach thawed and well-drained (or 3 cups fresh spinach, sautéed and drained)
  • 1 cup cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded cheese mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
  • ½ cup crumbled bacon for extra smokiness
  • ½ cup artichoke hearts chopped (for a spinach-artichoke twist)

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowl
  1. 1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2️⃣ Cut a 1-inch deep circle into the top of the bread loaf. Carefully remove the inner bread, leaving about ½ inch of crust all around.
  3. 3️⃣ Cube the removed bread and set aside for dipping.
Step 2: Make the Spinach Dip
  1. 4️⃣ In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
  2. 5️⃣ Fold in spinach and shredded cheese, mixing until evenly combined.
Step 3: Bake the Bread Bowl (Optional for Warm Dip)
  1. 6️⃣ Lightly toast the inside of the hollowed-out bread bowl in the oven for 5–10 minutes to help prevent sogginess.
  2. 7️⃣ Fill the bread bowl with the spinach dip, place on a baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
  1. 8️⃣ Place the toasted bread cubes around the bread bowl for dipping.
  2. 9️⃣ Serve immediately with crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetables for a delicious, shareable appetizer!

Notes

✔ For a cold version: Skip the baking step and refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour before filling the bread bowl.
✔ To prevent sogginess: Brush the inside of the bread bowl with olive oil or melted butter before toasting.
✔ Want a healthier option? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light cream cheese.
✔ Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.