This fun Gringo Dip combines creamy cheese, zesty salsa, and juicy ground beef for a tasty snack. Perfect for chips, veggies, or just eating with a spoon—no judgment here!
Whenever I make this dip, it disappears faster than I can say “gringo”! It’s so easy to whip up that I always have the ingredients on hand for unexpected guests. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Spinach: This adds a nice color and nutrients to the dip. If you’re short on spinach, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to squeeze out the excess water!
Diced Tomatoes: Use fresh tomatoes for a brighter flavor, or canned diced tomatoes work perfectly too. Just drain them well to avoid watery dip.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese provides creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt instead, but the dip will be less rich.
Monterey Jack Cheese: This is my favorite for melty goodness! If you can’t find it, cheddar or pepper jack are great substitutes for a different twist.
Sour Cream: Adds a tangy flavor. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder enhance flavor. Fresh garlic and onion can also be sautéed, but the powders are quick and easy!
How Do I Make The Cheesiest Dip Ever?
To ensure your 54th Street Gringo Dip is super cheesy, focus on the mixing part. Make sure your cream cheese is softened so it blends well with the other ingredients. Here’s how to get that perfect texture:
- Soften your cream cheese by leaving it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Mix the cream cheese with the other cheeses until it’s smooth. A hand mixer can make this easier!
- When mixing the spinach and tomatoes, fold them in gently to keep some volume in the cheese mixture.
- Bake until the dip is bubbly and just starting to brown, keeping an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Your dip is done when it’s warm, creamy, and smells amazing. Enjoy with chips and watch it disappear!
54th Street Gringo Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), drained if canned
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Gringo Dip takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, so you’ll have it ready in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready when your dip mixture is prepped and ready to go.
2. Sauté the Spinach:
In a skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook it until it’s wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it from heat and set it aside.
3. Mix the Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Combine with Spinach and Tomatoes:
Gently fold the wilted spinach and diced tomatoes into the cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep some of that lovely texture!
5. Bake the Dip:
Transfer your dip mixture into a small oven-safe skillet or a baking dish, making sure to spread it evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab some tortilla chips and dig into this creamy, flavorful dip! It’s perfect for sharing (or not!).
Enjoy your 54th Street Gringo Dip—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach for This Dip?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess water to avoid a watery dip. It’s a great time-saver if you’re in a pinch!
What Can I Substitute for Monterey Jack Cheese?
If you can’t find Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar or pepper jack are excellent alternatives. They’ll give a slightly different flavor, but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of sour cream if it seems thick.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dip in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold from the fridge.
