Spinach and Feta Skillet Dip

This Spinach and Feta Skillet Dip is a delightful blend of creamy textures and rich Mediterranean flavors. The fresh spinach balances the richness of cream cheese and feta, creating a dip that’s both indulgent and light. It’s perfect for any party or gathering where you need an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve this dip warm from the skillet with crispy pita chips or crackers for a truly comforting and delicious snack. The golden, bubbly top adds a nice finishing touch, while the combination of tangy feta and creamy base ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day, a holiday gathering, or just enjoying a casual night in, this dip is sure to be a hit!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Pita chips or crackers for serving

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and mix in the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Add the crumbled feta, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
Preheat the broiler. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with pita chips or crackers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Origins and Inspiration Behind Spinach and Feta Dishes

Spinach and feta is a classic Mediterranean pairing, often found in Greek and Turkish cuisine. One of the most popular dishes featuring these two ingredients is spanakopita, a Greek pastry made with spinach, feta, and flaky phyllo dough. This recipe for Spinach and Feta Skillet Dip takes those traditional flavors and turns them into a more accessible and crowd-pleasing dip that you can whip up in under 30 minutes. The idea behind the recipe is to simplify the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine while still offering a wholesome, flavorful dish.

Why This Recipe Is the Best

Simplicity Meets Flavor: One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a handful of ingredients—most of which you probably already have in your kitchen—you can create a dip that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It’s ideal for last-minute entertaining or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatility: This dip can be served in many different ways. Whether you choose pita chips, crackers, or even toasted baguette slices, it complements a wide variety of dippers. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning or add extra ingredients, like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers, to make it your own. The base of cream cheese, feta, and spinach provides a great canvas for customization.
Crowd-Pleaser: Who doesn’t love a warm, cheesy dip? It’s a dish that appeals to everyone—whether they’re vegetarians, cheese lovers, or simply hungry snackers. The golden top after broiling makes it visually appealing, and the creamy texture will keep guests coming back for more.
Health Benefits: Though this dip feels indulgent, it has some health benefits thanks to the key ingredients. Spinach is loaded with vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, and it’s also a great source of antioxidants. Feta cheese, made from sheep’s milk, is lower in fat than many other cheeses and brings a distinct tanginess that enhances the flavors. While it’s still a rich dip, it’s nice to know you’re getting a bit of nutrition with every bite.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Spinach: Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in iron, calcium, and fiber, it’s known to support heart health, boost the immune system, and promote healthy digestion. This leafy green is also packed with vitamins A and C, which help with skin and eye health.
Feta Cheese: Feta is one of the most flavorful cheeses, and it’s much lower in calories and fat compared to other types like cheddar or mozzarella. It’s a good source of protein and calcium, making it a great addition to any dish. Plus, because feta is so flavorful, you don’t need to use a lot to make an impact in your recipes.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese provides a smooth and rich base for the dip, making it irresistibly creamy. It’s also a good binder for other ingredients, helping the spinach and feta stick together in every bite.
Garlic and Onion: These aromatic vegetables add depth of flavor. Garlic, in particular, has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Step-by-Step Process for Perfect Results

Cooking the Spinach: The spinach is cooked down with onions and garlic, which not only enhances its flavor but also helps to concentrate its nutrients. Cooking the spinach removes its natural bitterness, leaving a sweet and tender texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy dip.
Creamy Base: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise ensures that the dip has the perfect smooth and creamy consistency. The sour cream adds a slight tang, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise and cream cheese.
Broiling: A quick broil at the end gives the dip a beautifully golden, bubbly top. This step is optional, but it makes the dish look more professional and adds a delightful texture contrast with the creamy interior.

Tips for Serving

This dip is best served warm, straight from the skillet, ensuring the cream cheese remains soft and the flavors stay vibrant. Pita chips are a classic pairing, but don’t stop there—try serving it with:

Crudité platter: Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell pepper strips.
Crusty bread: Toasted slices of baguette or ciabatta make for a hearty option.
Pretzels: For a salty crunch that complements the creamy dip.

You can even use leftovers as a spread for sandwiches or wraps, making this dip versatile beyond its role as an appetizer.

Why This Recipe Works for Every Occasion

For casual gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a game night or a weekend get-together, this skillet dip is always a hit. It’s quick to prepare and serve, and you won’t have to worry about keeping it warm for long—it’s usually gone before it cools down!
For special events: The visual appeal of this dish—thanks to the golden, bubbly top and the vibrant green spinach—makes it perfect for more formal occasions as well. It’s great for holiday parties, potlucks, and even family dinners where you want to serve something special.
Make-ahead convenience: One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time. Prepare the dip up to the point before broiling, store it in the fridge, and just pop it under the broiler when you’re ready to serve. This is a great time-saver if you’re hosting a big event and need to prepare multiple dishes.

Customizing Your Spinach and Feta Skillet Dip

One of the beauties of this dish is its flexibility. If you want to switch things up, here are a few ideas:

Add protein: Stir in cooked, crumbled sausage or bacon for a heartier dip.
Make it spicier: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Go dairy-free: Substitute the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan feta cheese for a dairy-free version that’s just as delicious.

Conclusion

This Spinach and Feta Skillet Dip is a recipe that delivers on all fronts—flavor, ease, and crowd appeal. Whether you’re making it for a casual family snack or serving it up at a holiday party, this creamy, cheesy dip is sure to impress. The Mediterranean-inspired ingredients not only bring amazing taste but also offer some great health benefits, making it a feel-good appetizer that you can enjoy guilt-free.

With a handful of simple ingredients and just 25 minutes, you can create a show-stopping dip that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Keep this one in your back pocket for any occasion that calls for delicious, easy-to-make comfort food!