Looking for the ultimate party appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more? This Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy, warm bread. It’s the ideal recipe for game days, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings. With a blend of three cheeses, spinach, and flavorful seasonings, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a stress-free appetizer.
Perfect for sharing – Serve it at parties, and it’ll disappear in no time.
Packed with flavor – The blend of pesto, Worcestershire sauce, and spices takes this dip to another level.
Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bread & Filling:

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 basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup mayonnaise (reduced-fat works great)
4 oz cream cheese, softened (⅓ less fat version can be used)
1/2 cup sour cream (reduced-fat recommended)
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large cutting board
Bread knife
Medium skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Mixing bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice a large rectangle about 2 inches deep through the top of the bread and remove it carefully. Hollow out about 2 inches deep inside the loaf, creating a shallow rectangular bread bowl. Set it aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft. Add red bell pepper and minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Mix the Dip

Stir in thawed and well-drained spinach, pesto, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, pepper, and mayonnaise. Stir well until everything is combined, and the spinach is heated through.

Reduce the heat to low and add cream cheese, stirring until it melts completely. Then, mix in sour cream, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese until everything is well combined.

4. Stuff & Bake

Spoon the spinach dip mixture into the prepared French bread bowl. Sprinkle the top with ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Place the bread on a baking tray and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

5. Cool, Slice & Serve

Let the stuffed bread sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Ingredient Swaps:

Swap cheddar cheese for gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, healthier option.
Try adding chopped artichokes for a spinach-artichoke dip twist.

Shortcuts & Time Savers:

Use pre-chopped frozen onions and peppers to speed up prep time.
Make the dip ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Store Leftovers:

Wrap leftover slices in foil and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm.

What to Serve with Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread

Drinks: Pairs beautifully with white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a crisp beer (like a pale ale).
Dips & Sauces: Serve with a side of marinara sauce or extra pesto for dipping.
Side Dishes: A simple Caesar salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of this dish.

FAQ

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes! You can substitute 3 cups of fresh spinach, but be sure to sauté it with the onions and peppers until it wilts and releases excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the spinach dip filling a day in advance. When ready to serve, simply stuff the bread and bake.

Can I freeze this dish?

The dip itself can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. However, it’s best to stuff and bake fresh bread for optimal texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free baguette or serve the dip with gluten-free crackers instead of stuffing the bread.

Final Thoughts

This Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread is the ultimate comfort food that brings together cheesy, creamy, and crunchy textures in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a new appetizer to try, this recipe is a guaranteed hit!

If you love this recipe, share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes. Happy cooking!

Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread

Spinach Dip Stuffed French Bread: A Crowd-Pleasing, Cheesy Delight