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Creamy baked Spinach Maria Dip in a cast iron skillet topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, ready to serve with bread and chips.

Baked Spinach Maria Dip

This Baked Spinach Maria Dip is a rich, creamy, and cheesy appetizer inspired by the classic Southern side dish. Made with fresh spinach, melted cheddar and mozzarella, and a touch of red pepper flakes, it’s the perfect warm dip for parties, holidays, or cozy nights in. Serve it hot with crusty bread or chips for an irresistible crowd-pleaser!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern Inspired
Servings 6 People

Ingredients
  

  • 24 oz Fresh Spinach (or 12 oz frozen)
  • ⅓ Cup Butter
  • ½ Yellow Onion (diced)
  • 2 cups Whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon Dijion Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
  • 4 oz Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
  • 6 oz Cheddar Cheese (shredded)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Spinach:Blanch fresh spinach in hot water for 1–2 minutes, then drain and cool in an ice bath. Squeeze out all excess water and set aside. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze dry.
  • Preheat the Oven:Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to bake the dip for a melted, golden top.
  • Sauté the Onions:In a cast iron or oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  • Build the Sauce:Add milk to the skillet and stir until it starts to bubble. Lower the heat, then whisk in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
  • Add the Cheese:Stir in Mozzarella and 4 oz of the Cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. (If you’re not baking, add all the cheese now.)
  • Combine Spinach & Sauce:Add spinach to the skillet, mixing well until evenly coated in the cheese sauce.
  • Bake the Dip:Sprinkle remaining 2 oz of Cheddar on top and bake for 3–4 minutes until melted and bubbly. Garnish with a pinch of red pepper flakes and cracked black pepper.
  • Serve Hot:Serve immediately with bread, crackers, or chips for dipping.

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes or microwave with a splash of milk until creamy again.
  • Substitution: Substitute frozen spinach if preferred — just squeeze out the liquid completely.
Keyword baked spinach maria dip, cheesy spinach dip, southern spinach dip, Spinch Maria Dip