Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Spinach Dip Recipe

Sunday football gatherings at our house changed forever when I discovered this Longhorn Steakhouse-inspired Parmesan crusted spinach dip. A blend of cream cheese, fresh garlic, and three different cheeses creates a base that's incredibly smooth and rich, while the ranch-seasoned Parmesan crust adds an irresistible crunch.

The magic happens in just 20 minutes in the oven, making it perfect for those times when you need something special but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen. I love that I can mix everything while catching up with family, then let the oven do its work while the house fills with the incredible scent of melting cheese and garlic.

This dip has saved countless busy evenings and last-minute gatherings. One time, when we were all looking for something to snack on while watching a game, I quickly assembled it using ingredients I already had in my fridge. The look of joy on their faces as they scooped up the bubbling dip with crispy homemade pita chips made my day.

What makes this recipe a true keeper is how it brings people together. As soon as the cheese starts bubbling and the crust turns golden-brown, my family comes to the kitchen, ready to dig in. Even my youngest, who typically picks around anything green, helps herself to seconds when this dip is on the table.

• Cream cheese, softened - provides a rich and creamy base for the dip, contributing to its smooth texture.
• Sour cream - adds a tangy flavor and creaminess, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
• Frozen spinach, thawed and drained - brings a nutritious element and vibrant color, while adding a subtle earthy flavor.
• Garlic, minced - gives a strong, aromatic flavor.
• Italian blend cheese - adds a melty, cheesy goodness with a mix of flavors.
• Shaved Parmesan - contributes a nutty, salty flavor and adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
• Panko bread crumbs - provide a crispy topping that adds texture and crunch when baked.
• Ranch dressing - infuses the dip with a creamy, herby flavor.
• Grated Parmesan - offers an additional layer of savory flavor and a slightly grainy texture.
• Pita bread - serves as a perfect vehicle for dipping, adding a soft and chewy texture to balance the creamy dip.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

If you’re in the mood for a creamy and flavorful appetizer, this Longhorn Steakhouse copycat parmesan spinach dip is the perfect choice! Rich and cheesy, this dip is packed with spinach and topped with a crunchy layer that makes it irresistible. Follow these straightforward steps to create a delicious dip that pairs perfectly with crispy pita chips, making it an ideal snack for game days or cozy nights in!

Prepare the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Using a hand mixer or a spatula, mix them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will serve as the rich base for your spinach dip.

Next, mix in the thawed and drained spinach, minced garlic, 1 cup of the Italian blend cheese, and ¼ cup of the shaved Parmesan. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. This combination will create a flavorful and creamy filling for your dip.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Once the mixture is well combined, transfer it to a small baking dish or an 8x8 dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish to ensure consistent baking and melting.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining Italian blend cheese and shaved Parmesan on top of the spinach mixture. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust that will melt and brown during baking.

Prepare the Crunchy Topping

In a separate small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, ranch dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix these ingredients together until the bread crumbs are well coated. This mixture will add a crunchy texture to the top of your dip.

Spread the Topping

Carefully spread the panko mixture over the cheese-covered dip, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This will create a delightful crunchy layer that contrasts with the creamy spinach dip.

Bake the Dip

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown. This indicates that the dip is fully cooked and ready to serve.

Prepare the Pita Chips

While the dip is baking, cut the pita bread into wedges. Lightly spray the wedges with cooking oil to help them crisp up during baking. Arrange the pita wedges on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Place the baking sheet with the pita chips in the oven and bake for about 12 minutes, or until the chips are golden and crispy. This will provide a perfect accompaniment to your warm spinach dip.

Once both the dip and the pita chips are done baking, remove them from the oven. Serve the warm spinach dip alongside the crispy pita chips for dipping. Enjoy this delicious appetizer with family and friends!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the spinach dip, place it in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

If you prefer, you can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. For best results, avoid reheating the dip multiple times, as this can affect its texture and flavor. Enjoy your leftovers!

Parmesan crusted spinach dip is a fantastic choice for game day, perfect for creating a spread that will keep everyone coming back for more. Serve it alongside air fryer BBQ chicken drumsticks or air fryer chicken wings with Italian seasoning for a satisfying spread of protein-packed options. Add a crispy twist with air fryer fried cheese curds or a platter of classic beef nachos to round out your savory selections. To finish on a sweet note, offer homemade mini croissants with cinnamon and chocolate filling for a dessert that guests won’t be able to resist. This combination makes your game day menu an unforgettable hit!