If there is one retro party appetizer that never goes out of style, it is this classic Knorr spinach dip recipe. Cool, creamy, and packed with tender spinach, crunchy water chestnuts, and the unmistakable savory flavor from Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, this is the dip that disappears before anything else on the table. Serve it in a rustic bread bowl with chunks of rye and a rainbow of fresh veggies, and you have an instant crowd-pleaser for holidays, game day, potlucks, and casual weekends at home. This iconic Knorr spinach dip recipe has been a party favorite for decades, and for good reason.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Party Spinach Dip
This is not just any spinach dip; it is the iconic American party dip that has anchored appetizer tables for decades. The combination of rich sour cream and mayonnaise, savory vegetable mix, and little pops of crunch from water chestnuts creates a texture and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for “just one more scoop.” This creamy spinach dip with Knorr mix delivers that perfect balance every time.
- It is incredibly simple: a handful of supermarket ingredients and almost no cooking, just some chopping and stirring. This easy party spinach dip comes together in minutes.
- It is party-perfect: you can mix it hours or even a day ahead, then simply spoon it into a bread bowl or serving dish before guests arrive. This make ahead Knorr spinach dip simplifies party planning.
- It is flexible: serve it with rye or sourdough bread, crackers, chips, or an abundant veggie tray for a lighter option. This versatile Knorr spinach dip for parties adapts to any occasion.
Because it is served cold and holds well on a buffet when properly chilled, this classic Knorr spinach dip is ideal for Super Bowl parties as the perfect game day spinach dip, Thanksgiving and Christmas appetizers as a holiday spinach dip recipe, New Year’s Eve spreads, office potlucks, and casual cookouts where you want a low-fuss, high-impact dish.
Ingredients for Classic Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix Spinach Dip
The beauty of this Knorr spinach dip recipe is that it leans on pantry and freezer staples that are easy to keep on hand. Each ingredient plays a specific role in flavor and texture, and understanding that helps you make smart substitutions when needed.
Core Ingredients
- Frozen chopped spinach (10 oz / ~280 g), thawed and squeezed very dry
Frozen spinach is convenient and consistent, giving you a tender leafy texture without the work of cooking and chopping bunches of fresh spinach. The key is removing as much water as possible so your spinach dip with water chestnuts stays thick and scoopable. - Sour cream (16 oz / 2 cups)
Full-fat sour cream gives the dip its cool, luscious tang and creamy body. You can use light sour cream if you prefer, but the texture will be a bit thinner in your Knorr vegetable soup mix spinach dip. - Mayonnaise (1 cup)
Mayonnaise adds richness and helps emulsify everything into a smooth, velvety dip. A neutral-tasting mayo works best so the flavor of the vegetable mix shines through in your creamy spinach dip with Knorr mix. - Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix (1 envelope)
This packet is the flavor engine of the Knorr spinach dip original recipe, providing onion, carrot, and other vegetable and herb notes in an instant. It also naturally thickens the dip as it hydrates while the dip chills. - Water chestnuts (1 can, 8 oz, drained and finely chopped, optional but classic)
Water chestnuts bring a delicious crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. If you have spinach dip memories from childhood, that gentle crunch is probably part of this classic spinach dip with water chestnuts. - Green onions (2-3, thinly sliced)
Scallions add fresh onion flavor and a pretty green accent without overwhelming the dip. Save a few slices for garnishing the top of your Knorr spinach dip bread bowl presentation. - Salt and pepper, to taste
The packet already contains salt and aromatics, so season only after chilling and tasting. Often a pinch of black pepper and maybe a tiny pinch of salt are all you need for this classic Knorr spinach dip.
Smart Ingredient Swaps and Lighter Options
One of the reasons this Knorr spinach dip recipe has remained popular for so long is its adaptability. You can keep the nostalgic flavor while nudging it lighter, making it more veggie-forward, or tailoring it to what you have in your kitchen.
- Greek yogurt for a lighter dip: Swap half—or even all—of the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt to create a healthier Knorr spinach dip. This keeps the dip creamy while cutting some fat and adding protein to your light Knorr spinach dip with Greek yogurt.
- Fresh spinach instead of frozen: Sauté or steam about 1 pound of fresh baby spinach until wilted, let it cool, then squeeze it very dry and chop. You want roughly the same squeezed volume you would get from the frozen box for your Knorr vegetable recipe mix spinach dip.
- No water chestnuts: If you cannot find water chestnuts or simply are not a fan, you can create Knorr spinach dip without water chestnuts. For a bit of crunch, finely chopped celery or red bell pepper can stand in, but the flavor will be slightly different in your Knorr spinach dip recipe.
- Cream cheese variation: For an extra rich version, try Knorr spinach dip with cream cheese by substituting 4 ounces of softened cream cheese for half the sour cream.
How to Make Knorr Spinach Dip (Step-by-Step Guide)
Learning how to make Knorr spinach dip is simple and rewarding. This Knorr spinach dip recipe involves more waiting than work. Most of the magic happens in the fridge while the flavors mingle and the vegetable mix fully hydrates, which thickens the dip and deepens its flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Place the frozen chopped spinach in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, or thaw it more quickly in the microwave according to the package directions. Once thawed, transfer the spinach to a fine-mesh strainer or colander and press hard with the back of a spoon to remove liquid. Then wrap it in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towel and squeeze until no more water drips out.
Removing as much water as possible is one of the biggest keys to preventing watery dip in your Knorr spinach dip recipe; well-squeezed spinach will feel compact and almost dry rather than soggy. This is crucial for learning how to fix watery Knorr spinach dip before it even happens.
Step 2: Chop the Mix-Ins
Drain the canned water chestnuts and pat them dry, then finely chop them into small dice so they distribute evenly through the dip. Slice the green onions into thin rounds, using both the white and green parts for flavor and color in your spinach dip with water chestnuts.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and the full envelope of Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix. Stir until the powder is evenly distributed and the mixture looks smooth and speckled with tiny bits of dried vegetables for your creamy spinach dip with Knorr mix.
Step 4: Fold Everything Together
Add the well-squeezed spinach, chopped water chestnuts, and sliced green onions to the bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to fold everything together until there are no pockets of plain cream and the vegetables look evenly dispersed in your Knorr vegetable recipe mix spinach dip.
Step 5: Chill to Develop Flavor
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the dip to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, and ideally 4-6 hours or overnight for the best results in your make ahead Knorr spinach dip. Understanding how long to chill Knorr spinach dip is key to perfect texture and flavor development.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust Before Serving
Before you transfer the dip to a serving bowl or bread bowl, give it a good stir and taste a spoonful. Often, the flavors will have intensified slightly in your classic Knorr spinach dip, so you may not need to add much seasoning.
Knorr Spinach Dip Bread Bowl and Serving Ideas
One of the most iconic ways to present this Knorr spinach dip recipe is piled high in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. It adds rustic charm, makes the dip the centerpiece of your appetizer spread, and provides ready-made dippers all in one.
How to Make a Bread Bowl
Choose a round loaf of rye, pumpernickel, or sourdough bread with a sturdy crust so it can hold the dip without getting soggy too quickly. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice off the top third of the loaf, then gently tear or cut out the soft interior, leaving about a 2-3 cm (about 1 inch) wall of bread around the sides and bottom for your Knorr spinach dip bread bowl presentation.
Best Dippers for Your Game Day Spinach Dip
This creamy, savory Knorr spinach dip recipe pairs well with a wide variety of dippers, which makes it easy to adapt for different guests and dietary needs. This versatility makes it the perfect game day spinach dip or holiday spinach dip recipe.For a gluten-friendly option, serve this creamy Knorr spinach dip with fresh veggies or slices of my gluten-free bread recipe instead of regular bread.
- Cubes of rye, pumpernickel, or sourdough bread
- Sliced baguette or ciabatta
- Crackers or pretzel crisps
- Baby carrots, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds, or blanched broccoli florets
- Pita wedges or tortilla chips for a more casual twist
Pro Tips for Perfect Knorr Spinach Dip Every Time
Even though this Knorr spinach dip recipe is straightforward, a few small technique tweaks make the difference between “good” and “this bowl is scraped completely clean.” These pro tips ensure your easy party spinach dip turns out perfectly every time.
- Squeeze the spinach thoroughly: This is the number one way to avoid a thin, watery dip in your Knorr spinach dip recipe. If you think the spinach is dry, squeeze it one more time.
- Do not skip the chill time: Even if you are tempted to dig in right away, chilling for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to meld and the vegetable mix to fully hydrate in your classic Knorr spinach dip.
- Season only after chilling: The flavors, especially saltiness, intensify a bit as the dip rests in your Knorr vegetable soup mix spinach dip. Wait until the dip is fully chilled, then taste and adjust.
- Know how to thicken Knorr spinach dip: If your dip seems too thin, add extra sour cream or Greek yogurt tablespoon by tablespoon until desired consistency is reached.
Troubleshooting Common Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe Problems
Even simple recipes can go sideways once in a while. If your Knorr spinach dip recipe does not look or taste quite the way you hoped, use these quick fixes to rescue the batch and learn what to tweak next time.
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Watery dip | Spinach not squeezed enough | Learn how to fix watery Knorr spinach dip by adding more sour cream |
| Too salty | Over-seasoned before chilling | Add plain Greek yogurt to dilute |
| Bland flavor | Insufficient chill time | Chill longer and add lemon juice |
| Too thick | Over-squeezed spinach | Discover how to thicken Knorr spinach dip with milk or sour cream |
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Food Safety for Knorr Spinach Dip
One of the biggest advantages of this Knorr spinach dip recipe is how well it fits into busy party schedules. You can prepare this as a make ahead Knorr spinach dip, let it chill, and then simply plate it when guests walk in.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Keep in airtight container |
| Freezer | 1-2 months | Texture may change slightly |
| Room Temperature | 2 hours max | Follow food safety guidelines |
Fun Variations on Classic Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe
Once you have mastered the base Knorr spinach dip recipe, you can easily customize it to fit different occasions or cravings. These variations keep the recognizable flavor profile while adding a twist.Want more crowd-pleasing snacks? Try this dip alongside my butter garlic dipping sauce and crusty bread for a full appetizer board.
| Variation | Ingredients to Add | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Cheesy Version | ½ cup Parmesan + ½ cup mozzarella | Rich, indulgent |
| Knorr spinach artichoke dip | 1 can chopped artichoke hearts | Classic combo |
| Spicy Kick | 1 jalapeño + dash of hot sauce | Bold, zesty |
| Healthier Option | Greek yogurt instead of sour cream | Light Knorr spinach dip with Greek yogurt |
| Cream Cheese Version | 4 oz softened cream cheese | Knorr spinach dip with cream cheese |
Nutrition Information for Healthier Knorr Spinach Dip
For those looking for a healthier Knorr spinach dip or light Knorr spinach dip with Greek yogurt, here’s the nutritional breakdown. Those needing gluten friendly Knorr spinach dip should verify the Knorr mix packaging and serve with gluten-free dippers.
| Nutrient | Amount (Per ¼ cup) | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal | 6% |
| Total Fat | 10g | 13% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Sodium | 280mg | 12% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe
What Knorr mix do you use for spinach dip?
For the authentic Knorr spinach dip recipe, you use Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix. This specific mix contains dried vegetables, herbs, and seasonings that create the classic flavor profile everyone loves. It’s important to use the Vegetable Recipe Mix rather than other Knorr products for the traditional taste.
Can you use Knorr vegetable soup mix for spinach dip?
While you can technically use Knorr vegetable soup mix, it’s not recommended for the authentic Knorr spinach dip original recipe. The Vegetable Recipe Mix is specifically formulated for dips and has the perfect balance of seasonings. The soup mix may contain different herb ratios and could alter the classic flavor of your creamy spinach dip with Knorr mix.
What goes in Knorr’s spinach dip?
The classic Knorr spinach dip recipe contains: frozen chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry), sour cream, mayonnaise, Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, water chestnuts for crunch, and green onions for fresh flavor. These simple ingredients combine to create the iconic party dip that’s perfect for any gathering.
What is Knorr vegetable recipe mix used for?
Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix is primarily used for making the classic Knorr vegetable recipe mix spinach dip, but it’s also versatile for seasoning vegetables, adding to meatloaf, enhancing soup flavor, or creating other quick dips. Its balanced blend of dehydrated vegetables and herbs makes it a handy pantry staple for busy cooks.
What all do you need for spinach dip?
For the complete easy party spinach dip, you need: 1 package Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, 16 oz sour cream (2 cups), 1 cup mayonnaise, 10 oz frozen chopped spinach (thawed and squeezed dry), 1 can (8 oz) water chestnuts (drained and chopped), and 2-3 sliced green onions. That’s all you need for this quick and easy spinach dip!
What is Knorr vegetable soup mix?
Knorr Vegetable Soup Mix is a different product from the Vegetable Recipe Mix used in the classic Knorr spinach dip. The soup mix is designed specifically for making vegetable soup and contains different proportions of vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. For the authentic dip flavor, stick with Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix.
How much mayo for Knorr spinach dip?
The authentic Knorr spinach dip recipe calls for 1 cup of mayonnaise. This measurement creates the perfect creamy texture and rich flavor balance. Using the right amount of mayo is key to achieving that classic dip consistency everyone loves.
How much mayo is in Knorr spinach dip?
In the original Knorr spinach dip recipe, there’s exactly 1 cup of mayonnaise combined with 2 cups of sour cream. This 2:1 ratio of sour cream to mayonnaise creates the ideal creamy base that’s rich but not overwhelming, allowing the vegetable mix flavors to shine through.
How much mayo do you put in spinach dip?
For this specific Knorr vegetable soup mix spinach dip, use 1 cup of regular mayonnaise. If you’re making a lighter version for a healthy spinach dip recipe, you can reduce this to ¾ cup or use light mayonnaise, though the texture may be slightly less creamy.
What is Knorr’s most popular product?
While Knorr offers many popular products, the Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix used in this Knorr spinach dip recipe is certainly one of their most recognized items in North America, largely thanks to this iconic dip recipe that has been a party favorite for decades.
How to make 3 cheese spinach dip?
To transform this into a 3 cheese spinach dip, add ½ cup grated Parmesan, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, and ¼ cup crumbled feta to the basic Knorr spinach dip recipe. The combination creates a rich, melty cheese experience while maintaining the classic Knorr flavor foundation.
How much sour cream for Knorr vegetable dip?
The standard Knorr spinach dip recipe requires 16 ounces of sour cream, which equals exactly 2 cups. This measurement creates the perfect creamy consistency that thickens nicely when chilled and holds up well in a bread bowl presentation.
How many ounces of sour cream for onion dip?
While this recipe is for spinach dip, if you’re making a classic onion dip using similar proportions, you’d typically use 16 ounces (2 cups) of sour cream combined with one packet of onion soup mix. The Knorr spinach dip recipe follows the same creamy base principle.
How much sour cream do you add to ranch dip?
For ranch dip, you’d typically use 16 ounces (2 cups) of sour cream with one packet of ranch seasoning. This is the same amount used in the classic Knorr spinach dip, making it easy to remember that most creamy dips start with a 16-ounce sour cream base.
What to add to sour cream for a dip?
To create a basic sour cream dip, add seasonings like the Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix for the classic Knorr spinach dip, or try onion soup mix, ranch seasoning, or fresh herbs like dill and chives. The key to how to make creamy spinach dip is properly balancing the sour cream with other moist ingredients.
Is 2 cups of sour cream 16 oz?
Yes, exactly! In the Knorr spinach dip recipe, 2 cups of sour cream equals 16 ounces by weight. This standard measurement is crucial for achieving the right consistency in your easy party spinach dip.
Is 1 cup of sour cream 8 ounces?
Correct! One cup of sour cream weighs 8 ounces, which means the Knorr spinach dip original recipe uses 2 cups (16 ounces) total. Knowing this measurement helps when scaling the recipe up or down for different party sizes.
What is the easiest spinach dip recipe?
This Knorr spinach dip recipe is widely considered the easiest spinach dip because it requires no cooking – just mixing a few simple ingredients. With only 6 main components and minimal prep time, it’s the perfect quick and easy spinach dip for last-minute entertaining.
How to make quick and easy spinach dip?
For the quick and easy spinach dip, simply mix 16 oz sour cream, 1 cup mayo, 1 packet Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, then fold in squeezed spinach, chopped water chestnuts and green onions. Chill 2 hours – that’s it! This easy party spinach dip comes together in under 15 minutes of active time.
What’s the secret to a creamy dip?
The secret to a creamy dip like this Knorr spinach dip recipe is threefold: 1) Use full-fat dairy for richness, 2) Squeeze spinach thoroughly to prevent watering down, and 3) Allow proper chill time for flavors to meld and texture to set. This creates that perfect scoopable consistency.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen spinach for spinach dip?
For the classic Knorr spinach dip, frozen spinach is actually preferred because it’s consistently tender and easy to squeeze dry. Fresh spinach requires wilting and more work to remove moisture. Frozen gives reliable results for this easy party spinach dip every time.
What is a healthy spinach dip recipe?
For a healthy spinach dip recipe version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, light mayonnaise, and add extra fresh vegetables. You can also reduce the mayo by half and increase the Greek yogurt. This creates a light Knorr spinach dip with Greek yogurt that’s higher in protein and lower in fat.
How do I make creamy spinach?
To make creamy spinach for dips or side dishes, cook fresh spinach until wilted, squeeze out excess water, then combine with cream cheese, sour cream, or a béchamel sauce. For the Knorr spinach dip recipe, the creaminess comes from the perfect balance of sour cream and mayonnaise with the hydrated vegetable mix.
Can I make this Knorr spinach dip recipe ahead of time?
Yes, and it is recommended. Mixing the dip at least a few hours ahead lets the Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix fully hydrate and the flavors meld. Prepare the dip, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for at least two hours and up to about two days. This make ahead Knorr spinach dip actually tastes better after chilling.
How long does this Knorr spinach dip recipe last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this classic Knorr spinach dip typically keeps for three to four days. Because it contains dairy and cooked spinach, keep it chilled when you are not actively serving it, and discard any dip that has been left at room temperature for more than two hours.
Can I use fresh spinach in this Knorr spinach dip recipe?
You can absolutely use fresh spinach. Sauté or steam about one pound of fresh baby spinach until wilted, then let it cool completely. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible in a clean towel, chop it finely, and use it in place of frozen spinach in your Knorr vegetable recipe mix spinach dip.
Why is my Knorr spinach dip recipe watery and how do I fix it?
Watery dip usually happens when the spinach is not drained thoroughly. To fix a batch that is already thin, add more sour cream or Greek yogurt a spoonful at a time and mix well. Learning how to fix watery Knorr spinach dip is essential – for future batches, wring the spinach out until it feels almost dry before mixing.
Can I make a lighter version of this Knorr spinach dip recipe?
Yes. To create a healthier Knorr spinach dip, swap some or all of the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and use a light mayonnaise instead of full-fat. This light Knorr spinach dip with Greek yogurt reduces the overall fat and adds protein while keeping a creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling.
Is this Knorr spinach dip recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients—spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, water chestnuts, and green onions—are generally gluten-free. The main item to check is the Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, because formulations can change. Always read the current packaging for gluten information when preparing your gluten friendly Knorr spinach dip.
Can I make Knorr spinach dip without water chestnuts?
Absolutely! For Knorr spinach dip without water chestnuts, simply omit them or substitute with finely chopped celery or red bell pepper for a different crunch. The classic flavor of the Knorr vegetable soup mix spinach dip will still shine through.
How do I make Knorr spinach artichoke dip?
To create Knorr spinach artichoke dip, simply add one can of drained and chopped artichoke hearts to the basic recipe. This variation turns your creamy spinach dip with Knorr mix into the beloved spinach artichoke combination that’s perfect for any gathering.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Knorr Spinach Dip Recipe
| Mistake | What Happens | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Not squeezing spinach enough | Watery, thin dip | Wring spinach in clean towel until dry |
| Skipping chill time | Flat, grainy texture | Chill minimum 2 hours, ideally 4-6 |
| Over-salting early | Too salty after chilling | Season only after full chill time |
| Large water chestnut chunks | Uneven texture in your spinach dip with water chestnuts | Chop chestnuts into small, even pieces |
| Leaving dip out too long | Food safety risk with your easy party spinach dip | Follow 2-hour room temp rule |
Bringing It All Together
This classic Knorr spinach dip captures everything people love about the original Knorr spinach dip recipe—cool creaminess, savory vegetable flavor, and that unmistakable crunch—while giving you modern confidence with make-ahead instructions, food safety guidance, lighter substitutions, and practical fixes for common problems. When you pair it with a bread bowl and a generous tray of dippers, this timeless Knorr spinach dip recipe becomes the centerpiece of any appetizer table, from Super Bowl Sunday as the perfect game day spinach dip to Thanksgiving and Christmas as your go-to holiday spinach dip recipe.
Whether you stick with the Knorr spinach dip original recipe or experiment with variations like Knorr spinach artichoke dip or a healthier Knorr spinach dip, this proven formula guarantees party-perfect results every time you serve this easy party spinach dip. For a complete menu, pair it with one of my quick and healthy main dishes for an effortless meal.
Classic Knorr Spinach Dip
This classic Knorr spinach dip is the iconic retro party dip everyone remembers—cool, creamy, savory, and perfectly scoopable. Made with frozen spinach, sour cream, mayo, and the famous Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for holidays, game day, potlucks, and last-minute entertaining.
- mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- knife
- spatula or spoon
- strainer or clean towel
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 16 oz sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 envelope Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix
- 8 oz water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
- salt and pepper, to taste
Thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out as much water as possible using a towel or strainer.
Finely chop the drained water chestnuts and slice the green onions.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and the full envelope of Knorr Vegetable Recipe Mix.
Add the spinach, water chestnuts, and green onions. Fold until well combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4–6 hours, to let flavors develop.
Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
For best texture, squeeze the spinach until completely dry and chill the dip for at least 2 hours. For a lighter version, swap half the sour cream for Greek yogurt. Serve in a bread bowl or with veggies, chips, or crackers.
