If you love the rich, cheesy goodness of spinach dip but wish it came in a perfectly crispy, snackable form, you’re in for a treat. These Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps are everything you want—cheesy, crunchy, flavorful, and easy to make. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
I first made these during a family movie night when I wanted something that felt a little fancy but also kid-friendly. They disappeared before the movie’s midpoint!
You’ll love these because they use simple ingredients, come together quickly, and are perfect for snack time, lunchboxes, or a last-minute appetizer.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chopped frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Note: Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent sogginess.
Pro Tips
- Thoroughly dry the spinach: Excess moisture can prevent the crisps from achieving the desired crunch.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Space the mounds appropriately: Place tablespoon-sized mounds about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Combine cheeses for optimal texture: Parmesan adds crispiness, while mozzarella provides a melty texture.
- Cool before serving: Allowing the crisps to cool enhances their crunchiness.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or small cookie scoop
- Paper towels (for drying spinach)
Substitutions and Variations
- Cheese alternatives: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.
- Add-ins: Incorporate crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
- Low-carb/keto: These crisps are naturally low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based shredded cheeses, keeping in mind that crisping may vary.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the mixture in advance: Mix the ingredients and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Bake just before serving: This ensures the crisps remain crunchy.
How to Make Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Mix ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, chopped spinach, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form mounds: Spoon tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten slightly: Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten each mound.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Cool: Allow the crisps to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Storage: Place leftover crisps in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–5 minutes.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as freezing may affect texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, but sauté it briefly to remove moisture, then chop and cool before using.
Do I have to use both mozzarella and Parmesan?
Using both provides a balance of meltiness and crispiness. However, you can experiment with other cheeses.
My crisps aren’t crispy. What went wrong?
Possible reasons include excess moisture in the spinach or underbaking. Ensure spinach is well-drained and bake until edges are golden.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Absolutely! Kids can assist with mixing ingredients and forming the mounds.
Wrapping Up
Spinach Dip Cheese Crisps are a delightful, easy-to-make snack that combines the flavors of a classic dip with the crunch of a crisp. They’re perfect for various occasions and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
If you try them, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Share your experience in the comments below and feel free to ask any questions.
