Cheddars Santa Fe Spinach Dip

There’s something magical about that moment when a hot, bubbling spinach dip arrives at your table at Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen. After countless visits and numerous attempts in my kitchen, I’ve finally cracked the code to recreating their famous Santa Fe Spinach Dip. The secret? A perfect blend of four different cheeses and a technique that ensures the spinach stays perfectly distributed throughout the dip.

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Creamy and cheesy spinach dip

A great dip makes every gathering better. Whether it is family movie night or tailgating with friends, Cheddar’s Santa Fe Spinach Dip is sure to be a hit!

Cheddar Spinach Dip is wonderfully creamy with a four-cheese blend and just a hint of spice. This stuff is so delicious that even folks who claim they hate spinach can’t get enough of it!

Try it once, and you are going to want to make it again and again. That’s okay because the Cheddars Spinach Dip recipe is quick and simple to prepare. Soon you are going to look for reasons to make it!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds by combining the right ratio of cheeses for the perfect melt, properly preparing the spinach to avoid excess moisture, and layering flavors with both fresh and prepared ingredients. The result is a creamy, cheesy dip with just the right amount of heat that rivals the restaurant version.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• Frozen Spinach – Creates the nutritious foundation
• White onion, finely diced – Provides savory depth
• Cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy base texture
• White cheddar cheese, shredded – Adds sharp flavor
• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded – Provides excellent melting quality
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded – Creates the perfect cheese pull
• Fresh garlic – Adds aromatic flavor
• Jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced – Provides gentle heat
• Seasoned salt – Enhances all flavors

For Serving:

• Warm corn tortilla chips – Perfect for dipping
• Sour cream – Adds cooling creaminess
• Fresh salsa – Provides fresh contrast

How to Make Cheddar’s Spinach Dip

1. Thaw spinach then drain and squeeze liquid from the spinach.
2. Place spinach, diced onions, cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic, jalapeno pepper, and seasoned salt in a bowl.

3. Stir until well blended.

4. Spread the mixture into a 1-quart casserole dish
5. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until the top is nice and bubbly.
6. Serve with sour cream, salsa, and warmed tortilla chips.

Pro Tips and Variations

• For creamier dip: Let cream cheese reach room temperature
• For spicier version: Leave jalapeño seeds in
• For smoother texture: Process onions in food processor
• For make-ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, bake when needed

Creative Variations

Artichoke Version

• Replace half the spinach with chopped artichoke hearts
• Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Citrus Bright Version

• Replace jalapeño with lemon zest and juice
• Add 1/4 cup fresh chopped herbs

Poblano Version

• Replace jalapeño with roasted poblano peppers
• Add 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Dietary Modifications

• Gluten-free: Already naturally gluten-free
• Vegetarian: Already vegetarian
• Lower fat: Use reduced-fat cheeses and light cream cheese
• Keto: Serve with vegetable crudités instead of chips

CopyKat Tip: Use a kitchen towel to squeeze liquid from cooked or thawed spinach. Wrap the spinach in the towel, twist, and tightly squeeze.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Instructions

• Cool completely
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days
• Do not freeze

Reheating Methods

1. Oven Method (Best):
   • 350°F for 15-20 minutes
   • Cover with foil
2. Microwave Method (Quick):
   • 50% power in 30-second intervals
   • Stir between intervals

Scaling the Recipe

• For a crowd: Double recipe, use a larger baking dish
• For small groups: Halve the recipe or use ramekins
• For individual servings: Bake in 4-oz ramekins for 15-20 minutes

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Q: Why is my dip watery? A: Insufficient draining of spinach; squeeze more thoroughly next time.

Q: Why isn’t my cheese melting smoothly? A: Cheese might be too cold; let ingredients reach room temperature first.

Q: Can I make this ahead? A: Yes, assemble up to 24 hours ahead and bake when needed.

Favorite Appetizer Recipes

If you enjoy appetizers, you may like some of these recipes:

Love Cheddars? Try these copycat recipes!

Find ever more of my restaurant style appetizers and the most popular copycat recipes.

Remember, the key to perfect spinach dip is properly drained spinach and patience while baking. Don’t rush the process – let it get hot and bubbly for the best texture and flavor.

Cheddars Santa Fe Spinach Dip

You can make Cheddars Sante Fe Spinach Dip at home with this easy copycat recipe.