If there’s one appetizer that never fails to impress at parties, it’s the Knorr spinach dip recipe. Known for its creamy texture, subtle garlic flavor, and savory crunch, this classic cold dip is a go-to dish for gatherings big and small. In this article, you’ll learn how to make it from scratch, discover popular variations, and get tips on making it your own.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet tasty enough to feel like a treat. Whether you’re serving it in a bread bowl, alongside crisp veggies, or paired with soft homemade bread like these bread machine Kaiser rolls, the Knorr spinach dip recipe will fit right in. We’ll also answer common questions, from how long it lasts in the fridge to whether frozen spinach needs to be cooked.
Table of Contents
What Is the Knorr Spinach Dip?
A Classic, Creamy Party Dip
The Knorr spinach dip recipe gained popularity thanks to its easy preparation and unmistakable flavor. Originally featured on Knorr’s Vegetable Recipe Mix packet, this chilled dip blends frozen spinach with mayonnaise, sour cream, and Knorr’s dry mix for a crowd-pleasing spread that’s always in season.
It’s creamy, garlicky, and full of flavor. Plus, you don’t need to heat anything—just stir it all together, chill, and serve. Perfect for busy hosts or last-minute potlucks.
Key Ingredients and Origins
At the heart of this dish is the Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix. This dry soup blend contains dehydrated vegetables and seasonings that give the dip its unique taste. When mixed with spinach, sour cream, and mayo, the result is a cold appetizer that’s rich, satisfying, and refreshing.
The original Knorr spinach dip recipe also called for chopped water chestnuts, which add crunch and balance the creamy base. Optional green onions or chopped carrots can give it a fresh kick. You’ll see this dip often served in a bread bowl, like one made from this Mastoris cheese bread, which soaks up the dip as guests dig in.
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Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe: A Creamy Favorite with an Easy Twist
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings (¼ cup each) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cool, creamy Knorr spinach dip recipe that’s quick to make and always a hit at gatherings—served cold or baked warm.
Ingredients
1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1 packet Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix
1 can (8 oz) water chestnuts, drained and chopped (optional)
3 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Combine spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, water chestnuts, and green onions in a large bowl.
2. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended.
3. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Serve cold with bread, veggies, or crackers.
5. Optional: For a warm version, stir in shredded mozzarella and chopped artichokes. Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt and use light mayo for a lighter dip.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge and use within 3–4 days.
Do not freeze.
For a party-ready touch, serve it in a bread bowl.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook (or bake for warm version)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 175 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.03 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 23 mg
Knorr Spinach Dip Ingredients and Variations
Core Components—Sour Cream, Mayo, Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, Spinach
The magic of the Knorr spinach dip recipe lies in its simple list of ingredients. Here’s what you need for the classic version:
- Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix – This dry soup mix is packed with dehydrated carrots, onions, leeks, and spices. It’s the backbone of the dip’s flavor.
- Frozen chopped spinach – Thawed and well-drained to avoid a watery dip.
- Sour cream – Adds a tangy richness.
- Mayonnaise – Brings the smooth, creamy texture that ties everything together.
- Water chestnuts (optional) – These crunchy additions bring a great textural contrast.
- Chopped green onions – For a bit of sharpness and freshness.
Most folks love the balance of creamy and crunchy textures this recipe offers. For best results, make sure the spinach is squeezed dry after thawing—this is the key to a dip that’s thick and not watery.
Want to make it a full-on party tray? Serve it alongside fresh veggie sticks, soft rolls, or even some viral one pan dumplings as a surprising pairing.
Optional Add-Ins for Creative Flavor
You can easily customize this recipe to match your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few great options:
- Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt if you’re aiming for something lighter.
- Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese for a richer, heartier version.
- Stir in chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy spin.
- Use light mayo to cut down on calories without sacrificing creaminess.
This recipe’s versatility is one of its strongest suits. You can also experiment with chopped herbs like dill or parsley for a fresher flavor. And if you’re planning a themed spread, you might want to pair it with something like this ground chicken taco salad—both are cold dishes that serve well side by side.
Step‑by‑Step Preparation Guide
Preparing and Draining the Spinach Safely
Before you mix anything, you need to deal with the spinach—and it’s a critical step. Most people use frozen chopped spinach for the Knorr spinach dip recipe, but if you don’t drain it properly, you’ll end up with a soggy mess.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Thaw the spinach in the microwave or leave it out at room temperature until fully soft.
- Place the spinach in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towel.
- Squeeze out all the excess moisture. This might take a few minutes, but it’s worth it—less water means a creamier dip.
If you skip this, the final dip won’t hold its shape. That’s why draining is not optional—it’s essential.
Some people wonder if frozen spinach needs to be cooked for the dip. The answer is no. It’s already blanched before freezing, so as long as it’s thawed and well-drained, it’s safe to use straight from the bag.
Mixing Ingredients and Chilling Tips
Once your spinach is ready, it’s time to bring everything together:
Step-by-step instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine:
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix
- 1 can (8 oz) water chestnuts, drained and chopped (optional)
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- Mix well until everything is fully blended. You want an even distribution of spinach and crunchy bits.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This gives the mix time to absorb all the flavors.
Pro tip: If you’re in a rush, you can serve it after 30–45 minutes, but the full chill time makes a noticeable difference in taste.
For a fresh and fun way to serve it, try hollowing out a round loaf of bread like the one in this Mastoris cheese bread recipe. It’s not only tasty—it looks impressive on a party table.
Flavor Twists and Customizations
Going Lighter with Greek Yogurt or Light Mayo
Not everyone wants full-fat dairy in their dip, and that’s totally okay. The good news is that the Knorr spinach dip recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily make it lighter without losing flavor.
Swap out the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for extra protein and a tangy twist. You can also use light mayonnaise instead of regular to reduce calories while keeping that creamy texture.
Here’s a quick comparison for the light version:
| Ingredient | Classic Version | Lighter Option |
|---|---|---|
| Sour Cream | 1 cup | 1 cup Greek yogurt |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | 1 cup light mayo |
| Calories (approx) | 220–250 per serving | 150–180 per serving |
Taste-wise, it’s still rich and satisfying. In fact, many people prefer the tang of Greek yogurt over traditional sour cream. Plus, the veggies in the Knorr mix really shine when the base isn’t too heavy.
Pair it with something fun and lighter like these ground chicken taco salads to build a well-rounded party menu.
Hot Version—Baked with Cheese and Artichokes
If you’re in the mood for something warm and gooey, try turning the cold Knorr spinach dip recipe into a baked appetizer. This twist is perfect for cozy gatherings or game day spreads.
Here’s how to make the hot version:
- Prepare the base as usual (spinach, mayo, sour cream, Knorr mix).
- Stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add 1/2 cup grated parmesan and 1/2 cup chopped canned artichoke hearts.
- Spread the mixture in a baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
This version adds a cheesy, savory punch that turns your dip into the star of the table. Serve it warm with crusty bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies.
You could even create a flavor fusion using some teriyaki-style ingredients like in this Teriyaki Spinach Dip—another great option for adventurous eaters.
Serving Suggestions & Presentation
Classic Presentation—Bread Bowl or Platter with Veggies & Crackers
One of the most iconic ways to present the Knorr spinach dip recipe is in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It’s not just a clever trick—it adds extra flavor and keeps cleanup simple.
To do this:
- Use a round loaf of bread (like sourdough or pumpernickel).
- Cut off the top and hollow out the center.
- Spoon in the dip and arrange the bread pieces around the bowl.
This approach doubles as both a dish and a dipper source. The bread absorbs the creamy spinach dip over time, making it even more delicious. You could use a homemade loaf, such as this Mastoris cheese bread, for a buttery, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the cool dip.
If bread isn’t your thing, no problem—serve it in a regular bowl with:
- Baby carrots
- Celery sticks
- Sliced cucumbers
- Bell pepper strips
- Pita chips
- Buttery crackers
The creaminess of the Knorr spinach dip recipe makes it perfect with crisp, fresh vegetables or crunchy crackers. A colorful platter also makes your table pop and invites everyone to dig in.
Creative Combos—Tortilla Chips, Veggie Sticks, Sweet Rolls
Looking to mix it up? Here are a few ideas that take this classic dip in fun new directions:
- Mini sweet rolls (like Hawaiian rolls) can be sliced in half and spread with dip for a quick snack.
- Tortilla chips bring a salty crunch and are a great option if you’re serving Tex-Mex-inspired sides like this ground chicken taco salad.
- Endive leaves act like edible scoops and work well for low-carb diets.
- Baguette slices (toasted or plain) also make elegant dippers for more formal gatherings.
The Knorr spinach dip recipe is extremely flexible—it fits right in at birthday parties, potlucks, and even fancy brunches. Just tailor the presentation to match your crowd and setting.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Safety
How Long Knorr Spinach Dip Lasts in the Fridge
Once prepared, the Knorr spinach dip recipe should always be kept refrigerated when not in use. Because it contains dairy—both sour cream and mayonnaise—it needs cold storage to stay safe and fresh.
Refrigerated Shelf Life:
- Up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Stir before serving, especially if the dip has separated slightly.
Avoid letting the dip sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, especially during warmer months. After that, bacteria growth may begin, making it unsafe to eat.
If you’re prepping ahead, make the dip no more than 24 hours before your event for the best texture and flavor. The flavors blend beautifully when allowed to chill overnight.
Tips to Keep It Fresh and Safe
Here are a few practical tips to make sure your Knorr spinach dip recipe stays tasting great and safe to eat:
- Use fresh ingredients. If your sour cream or mayo is close to its expiration date, that shortens the dip’s shelf life.
- Store in a tightly sealed container. This keeps it from absorbing fridge odors and drying out.
- Don’t double dip. Instead, spoon small amounts into separate bowls if serving a crowd.
- Keep dip chilled during parties. Place the serving bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice to keep it cool longer.
If you plan to use leftovers, try serving the dip as a spread on wraps, bagels, or as a sandwich topping. It pairs well with homemade items like these bread machine Kaiser rolls, offering a second life to your appetizer in the form of a delicious lunch.
When in doubt, give it a quick sniff—if it smells off or overly sour, toss it. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to dairy-based dips.
FAQ
Which Knorr Mix to Use for Spinach Dip?
The only mix you need for the classic Knorr spinach dip recipe is the Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix. This dry soup mix includes dehydrated carrots, onions, leeks, parsley, and other savory seasonings. It’s widely available in grocery stores and comes in a small green packet. Don’t substitute with other Knorr mixes like French Onion or Chicken—they won’t deliver the same signature flavor.
Does Frozen Spinach Need Cooking for the Dip?
Nope. Frozen spinach is already blanched (partially cooked) before packaging, so there’s no need to cook it again for this dip. You only need to thaw and drain it thoroughly. Make sure to press out as much moisture as possible to avoid a watery dip. That’s the most important step when preparing frozen spinach for this recipe.
How Much Mayo and Sour Cream for Spinach Dip?
The traditional Knorr spinach dip recipe calls for equal parts of mayonnaise and sour cream:
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
If you’re going for a lighter version, you can use light mayo or swap in Greek yogurt for the sour cream. Just be sure to keep the 1:1 ratio for the smoothest texture and best flavor.
How Long Does Knorr Spinach Dip Last?
When properly stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, this dip lasts 3 to 4 days. For the freshest results, make it the night before serving to give the flavors time to blend. Always keep it cold and discard any leftovers that were left out for over two hours.
If you’re serving the dip alongside rich or sweet options like Mastoris cheese bread, consider making a smaller batch to avoid waste. Leftovers are great the next day on wraps or sandwiches.
Conclusion
The Knorr spinach dip recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something everyone wants to dip into. Whether you stick with the classic cold version or go bold with a hot, cheesy twist, this recipe delivers every time.
It’s perfect for parties, casual get-togethers, or just snacking with family. From crunchy water chestnuts to creamy Greek yogurt swaps, it’s flexible enough to match your taste and lifestyle. Just remember to chill it thoroughly, keep it stored properly, and always serve it with love—and maybe a few teriyaki-inspired variations for adventurous guests.
If you’re planning a party platter, don’t stop at dip—pair it with a savory ground chicken taco salad or homemade rolls to keep the table exciting and satisfying.
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