Imagine a crowd-stopping appetizer that's not just delicious, but also serves as its own edible bowl! This Spinach Dip Inside a Cob Loaf is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that transforms an ordinary gathering into a memorable feast. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon for impressing friends and family at any event.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large cob loaf
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 packet onion soup mix
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cob loaf by carefully cutting off the top third of the bread. Hollow out the inside of the loaf, leaving about a 1-inch thick bread shell. Tear the removed bread into bite-sized pieces for dipping.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly drain the thawed frozen spinach, squeezing out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Combine the drained spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, and onion soup mix in the bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Spoon the spinach dip mixture into the hollowed-out cob loaf, ensuring it is packed firmly and evenly distributed.
- Place the filled cob loaf and the torn bread pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and the bread edges are golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve the dip inside the cob loaf with the toasted bread pieces and additional crackers or vegetables for dipping.
Tips
- Squeeze the spinach thoroughly: Removing excess moisture is crucial to prevent a watery dip. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to drain the spinach completely.
- Choose the right bread: Select a fresh, sturdy cob loaf with a thick crust that can hold the creamy dip without getting soggy.
- Customize your dip: Feel free to add extra ingredients like minced garlic, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits to personalize the flavor.
- Prep ahead: You can prepare the spinach dip mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making party prep a breeze.
- Serving suggestion: Serve with extra dipping options like vegetable sticks, crackers, or additional toasted bread pieces for variety.
- Reheat carefully: If you have leftovers, reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the bread's crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
