I have to say, this Houston Spinach Dip Recipe brings back so many memories for me.
When I first saw the grilling dude on YouTube make his version of spinach and artichoke dip, it hit me in a way I didn’t expect.
Suddenly I was back in Washington DC in the 80s, walking into Houston’s after work like it was my second home.
Back then, Houston’s had this Chicago style spinach dip, or as we all called it, “c-spin.” I ordered it hundreds of times. It was creamy, warm, cheesy, and just kind of perfect after a long day. I spent so many nights there with friends, watching sports, chatting with bartenders, and sitting in the same booth like clockwork.
So today, I’m making this copycat Houston Spinach Dip Recipe as a little trip back in time. It’s simple, rich, and comforting. And honestly, it tastes like home to me.
Our site also has several delicious dip and appetizer recipes you might enjoy, including Chad’s Smoked Gouda Dip Recipe, and Olive Garden Alfredo Dip Recipe. and more.
Why You’ll Love Houston Spinach Dip
This dip tastes warm, creamy, and cheesy in the best way. The spinach mixes with the artichokes to make a soft, smooth bite that feels rich but not too heavy. Every spoonful has that cozy flavor that reminds you of old restaurant nights.
The Romano and Parmesan cheeses add a salty little punch. The mozzarella melts into this stretchy layer that pulls just right when you dip a chip. It feels simple but special at the same time.
And if you serve it the way Houston’s did, with a little salsa on the side, it gets that tiny tangy kick that makes the whole bite pop. It’s like the dip gives you a warm hug.
Ingredients Required for Houston Spinach Dip Recipe
Before you start, make sure you have all the following ingredients listed below for this Houston Spinach Dip Recipe
- 1 can marinated artichoke hearts
- 1 third cup grated Romano cheese
- 1 quarter cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 third cup heavy cream
- 1 half cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking dish
- Oven
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
How To Make Houston Spinach Dip
Just follow these easy steps to make your own Houston Spinach Dip at home
1. Put the artichoke hearts, Romano cheese, Parmesan cheese and garlic into the food processor and pulse for about 90 seconds.
2. Mix the mixture into a medium bowl.
3. Stir in the spinach, drained thoroughly, heavy cream, sour cream, and mozzarella cheese until smooth and evenly combined.
4. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
5. Spray a baking dish so that your food doesn’t stick.
6. Pour the dip into the dish and spread it thinly over it.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until it is heated through.
8. Serve with tortilla chips and salsa on the side.
How to Store Houston Spinach Dip Properly?
Dip left over can be sealed in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator for up to three days. The oven is heated to 300 degrees and the dip is warmed up until it is soft, or put into a microwave for short bursts. You can freeze it, too, but to reheat it and keep it creamy like the freezer would destroy that texture we suggest thawing in your fridge.
What to Pair and Serve with Houston Spinach Dip
1. Warm tortilla chips
We used to eat it this way at Houston’s, and honestly, it still feels like the perfect match. The chips stay crisp, and the dip melts right onto them.
2. Fresh crunchy veggies
Carrots, celery, and mini peppers taste so good with the creamy dip. It feels lighter but still super tasty.
3. Toasted baguette slices
We’ve served it like this at parties, and the warm bread makes the dip feel extra fancy without trying hard.
4. Soft pretzel bites
The salty pretzels with the cheesy dip are always a hit. We never have leftovers when we serve it this way.
5. Pita chips
They hold up really well, and the extra crunch works great with the creamy texture of the dip.
6. As a topping for baked potatoes
We tried this once by accident, and it turned into one of those “why didn’t we do this sooner” meals.
7. Spread inside warm tortillas
This makes a super quick snack. Just spread some dip, roll it up, and you’re set.
8. With grilled chicken
We spooned some over grilled chicken one night, and it turned into a whole meal. The dip adds flavor fast.
9. On top of nachos
Warm the dip and drizzle it over chips with a little salsa. It tastes like restaurant nachos but better.
10. With cold beer or sparkling drinks
This is how we enjoyed it back in the day. The dip is rich, so a cold drink balances everything perfectly.
My Personal Experience With this Recipe and Some Tips
I loved making this Houston Spinach Dip Recipe. It felt warm and cozy, just like the dip I remember from years ago. When I took the first bite, it made me smile. It was creamy, cheesy, and so good. My friends loved it too.
Tips
1. Drain the spinach well so the dip is not watery.
2. Use fresh garlic for the best taste.
3. Mix everything until it feels smooth.
4. Bake until the top looks warm and bubbly.
5. Serve with chips or bread for fun dipping.
6. Add a little salsa on the side for extra flavor.
FAQs on Houston Spinach Dip Recipe
Here are some common questions I’ve got you covered about the Houston Spinach Dip Recipe.
1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can. I’ve tried it both ways. Just cook the fresh spinach down and squeeze out all the water. If you leave it wet, the dip gets runny.
2. Do I have to use marinated artichokes?
I prefer marinated because they add extra flavor, but plain artichokes in water work fine too. I’ve used both, and honestly the dip still tastes great.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and I do it often. Mix everything, put it in the dish, and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it. It tastes just as good.
4. What kind of cheese melts best?
Mozzarella melts the smoothest. Romano and Parmesan add flavor. I’ve tried swapping them, but these three cheeses together taste closest to the Houston’s dip I remember.
5. Why does my dip turn watery?
It usually means the spinach wasn’t drained enough. I’ve made that mistake before. Squeeze it well until it feels dry.
6. Can I make this dip spicy?
Yes. I sometimes add a pinch of chili flakes or a spoon of salsa mixed in. It gives a small kick without changing the classic flavor.
7. What do I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips are the classic. Sometimes I also use toasted bread or pita chips. At Houston’s, salsa on the side made a big difference, and I still do it that way.
8. Can I freeze the dip?
Yes, I’ve frozen leftovers before. It reheats well, but make sure to thaw it in the fridge first so it stays creamy.
9. How do I reheat it without drying it out?
I warm it in the oven on low heat. If it looks a little thick, I stir in a splash of cream. It brings it right back.
10. Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, and I’ve done this many times. Just use a bigger baking dish. The cooking time stays about the same.
This is Houston Spinach Dip. It’s plain, warm, and has flavor you can really taste. You’ll remember all those wonderful moments at home then feel your days are that little bit special.
If you love cheesy snacks just as much as your heart is warm and fuzzy, then this one is a must have. Go ahead give a whirl!And hopefully, let the taste comfort bring your own slice of private happiness today.
I’d love to hear your thoughts-leave a comment on the blog and let me know How it came out! Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest, Facebook and YouTube for more delicious updates. Your support truly means everything to me.