Easy Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread

If you’re looking for a dish that’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious, then look no further than this Easy Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread. This delightful appetizer is not only simple to prepare, but it also makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering. Imagine a warm, crusty loaf of French bread, hollowed out and filled to the brim with a rich spinach dip. It’s a crowd-pleaser that your friends and family will rave about, and it’s perfect for game day, parties, or even a cozy night in.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something about a bread bowl that draws people in. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this Easy Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread will have everyone gathered around, eager to dig in. The creamy spinach dip, loaded with flavorful cheeses and fresh veggies, pairs perfectly with the crispy crust of the French bread. Plus, the ease of serving makes it a winner; no need for messy plates or utensils—just tear off a piece of bread and enjoy!

What You’ll Gather

• 1 loaf French bread
• 1 (10 oz.) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained/patted dry
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons prepared pesto (I use Basil pesto from Costco)
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (I use reduced-fat)
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened (I use less fat)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (I use reduced-fat)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese

Equipment Breakdown

• Large mixing bowl – for combining the spinach dip ingredients.
• Sharp knife – to hollow out the French bread and chop veggies.
• Oven-safe baking dish – for baking the stuffed bread.
• Spatula – to mix and spread the dip inside the bread.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient quantities.

From Start to Finish: Easy Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your loaf of French bread and slice off the top third. Gently hollow out the inside of the bread, leaving a sturdy shell to hold the dip. Set the removed bread aside for serving.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until they are soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Mix the Dip

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the pesto, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Next, add the mayonnaise, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix until everything is well combined. Finally, fold in the grated Parmesan, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Stuff the Bread

Spoon the creamy spinach dip mixture into the hollowed-out French bread, packing it in generously. Place the filled bread in an oven-safe baking dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the stuffed bread in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Substitutions by Diet

• For a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise, cream cheese, and sour cream, and replace the cheese with vegan cheese alternatives.
• For gluten-free, substitute the French bread with a gluten-free bread option.
• If you’re looking to reduce calories, opt for low-fat or fat-free versions of cream cheese and sour cream.
• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dip mixture.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

This Easy Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins such as artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked bacon for added flavor. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly!

• The spinach dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake just before serving.
• For a more rustic presentation, use a whole grain French bread or ciabatta.
• Don’t throw away the bread you hollowed out! Tear it into pieces for dipping, or use it to make croutons!

How to Store & Reheat

Leftover Easy Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. You may cover it with foil to prevent the bread from over-browning.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What should I do if my spinach dip is too watery?

If your dip turns out too watery, ensure you thoroughly drain the spinach after thawing. You can also mix in a little more cream cheese to thicken it up.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, sauté it in the skillet until wilted before adding it to the dip mixture. About 10 ounces of fresh spinach should suffice.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare the dip mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Hollow out the bread and assemble just before baking for the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

This dish is best served warm right out of the oven. Pair it with the torn-off pieces of bread and fresh vegetable sticks for a fun and interactive appetizer experience.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Cheesy Baked Artichoke Dip
• Creamy Mushroom Stuffed Bread
• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
• Spicy Sweet Potato Bites

The Takeaway

The Easy Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread is a delightful dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s both comforting and indulgent. Its creamy, cheesy filling is wrapped in a warm, crusty bread that encourages sharing and enjoyment. This recipe is not only a hit at gatherings but also a wonderful way to enjoy veggies without compromising on flavor. So gather your friends and family, and serve up this delicious appetizer that’s bound to disappear in no time!