Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps combine crispy, golden cheese crisps with a creamy, herby spinach dip. These irresistible bites are the perfect combination of crunch and creamy goodness and are ideal for parties, game days, or as a quick snack.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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For the Cheese Crisps:
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup cooked spinach (squeeze out excess moisture)
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1/4 cup cream cheese (room temperature)
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1/4 cup sour cream (full-fat)
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prepare the Spinach Dip: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Bake the Cheese Crisps: On a parchment-lined baking sheet, form tablespoon-sized mounds of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
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Assemble: After the cheese crisps have cooled slightly, spoon a small amount of spinach dip onto each crisp.
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Serve: Serve immediately while still warm.
Nutrients (per 2 crisps)
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Calories: 120
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Protein: 6g
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Carbohydrates: 3g
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Fat: 9g
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Saturated Fat: 5g
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Cholesterol: 25mg
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Sodium: 180mg
Why Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps Work So Well
What sets Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps apart from other appetizers is the harmony of flavors and textures. The cheese crisps provide the perfect amount of crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the smooth, tangy spinach dip. The combination of cheese and spinach creates a flavor that is rich yet light, savory, and satisfying.
The smoky undertones from the garlic powder, along with the mild heat from the onion powder, enhance the natural flavors of the spinach, while the cream cheese and sour cream offer richness and a smooth texture. The result is a flavor-packed bite that’s both comforting and exciting, all in one. These cheese crisps are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different settings, making them a great go-to recipe for various occasions.
Key Ingredients for Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The base of the cheese crisps is made with shredded cheddar cheese. Cheddar is the ideal cheese for this recipe because it melts beautifully and crisps up perfectly in the oven. The sharpness of cheddar also pairs wonderfully with the creamy spinach dip topping.
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Cooked Spinach: Spinach adds earthiness and nutrition to the dip. Cooking the spinach first helps release its moisture, so it doesn’t make the dip watery. The spinach provides the dish with a vibrant green color and a rich, savory flavor.
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Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These two ingredients are what make the spinach dip creamy and rich. The cream cheese adds a smooth, luscious texture, while the sour cream brings a tangy, slightly tart flavor that cuts through the richness of the dip.
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Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These spices are essential for adding a depth of flavor to the spinach dip. Garlic powder brings warmth and an aromatic quality, while onion powder complements it with its mild, savory flavor.
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Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings help balance the dish. They elevate the flavors and ensure that the dip is perfectly seasoned.
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Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to grease the baking sheet and cook the cheese crisps. It ensures the cheese crisps develop a beautiful golden-brown crust while preventing sticking.
How to Make Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps
This recipe is quick, simple, and perfect for anyone who loves delicious, cheesy snacks. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the cheese crisps bake evenly and develop a golden crust.
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Prepare the Spinach Dip: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, cooked spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick but spreadable. Set it aside while you prepare the cheese crisps.
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Bake the Cheese Crisps: On a parchment-lined baking sheet, place tablespoon-sized mounds of shredded cheddar cheese. Spread them out a bit, leaving enough room for the cheese to melt and spread. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the edges of the cheese crisps are golden and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
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Assemble the Crisps: Once the cheese crisps have cooled slightly, spoon a small amount of spinach dip onto each crisp. The creamy dip will soften the cheese crisps slightly but will still offer a satisfying contrast in texture.
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Serve: Serve the Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps immediately while they’re still warm. The combination of the warm, crispy cheese and the cool, creamy spinach dip is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
These Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at a party, bringing them to a potluck, or just enjoying a snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Here are a few ways you can serve them:
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For Parties: Serve these crisps on a large platter alongside other appetizers, such as mini sliders, stuffed mushrooms, or deviled eggs. They make an excellent addition to any appetizer spread.
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For Game Day: These crisps are perfect for game day. They’re easy to eat with your hands and pair wonderfully with a cold drink or some homemade dips, like guacamole or salsa.
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For Brunch: Pair these cheese crisps with a fresh salad or a plate of scrambled eggs for a hearty, satisfying brunch. You can also serve them as a side dish with quiche or frittata.
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As a Snack: Enjoy them on their own for a quick and delicious snack. They are light yet filling, making them a great choice when you need something satisfying without overindulging.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps (2 crisps) contains approximately 120 calories, 6g of protein, 9g of fat, and 3g of carbohydrates. The fat content comes from the cheese and sour cream, providing a rich, creamy texture. The crisps are low in carbohydrates, making them a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. The sodium content is 180mg, which is moderate, so you can adjust the salt levels in the recipe to suit your taste.
Conclusion: A Flavorful, Crunchy Delight
Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy goodness and creamy, herby dip. These little bites are easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any event. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal, these cheese crisps will always stand out as a delicious, satisfying treat. The blend of savory cheese, creamy dip, and crunchy texture makes them irresistible, and the best part is they’re quick and simple to prepare. Enjoy them warm, fresh out of the oven, for a truly delightful experience.