Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prep the spinach
- If using frozen spinach: thaw fully, then place in a fine sieve or colander. Press or squeeze out as much liquid as you can (using paper towels helps).
- If using fresh spinach: wash thoroughly, dry well, then chop finely.
Mix the base
- In your mixing bowl, put the softened cream cheese and sour cream / Greek yogurt. Stir until smooth.
- Add garlic powder (or minced garlic) and seasoned salt. Mix well.
Add cheese & spinach
- Stir in the shredded cheese (cheddar / Monterey Jack / Pepper Jack).
- Fold in the spinach until evenly distributed. You should see little green flecks.
Taste and adjust
- Taste a bit. If you want more garlic flavor, add a pinch of fresh garlic or extra garlic powder.
- If it feels too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or yogurt to loosen (but do this sparingly).
Chill (optional but recommended)
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. This helps flavors meld and the texture firm up.
- If you skip chilling, serve immediately.
Decorate the graveyard
- Arrange your crackers or breadsticks upright in the dip to look like tombstones.
- Use extra veggie sticks or chips around to create “walkways” or “dirt.”
- If you like, dust a bit of paprika or black pepper around edges for “soil.”
Serve
- Place the dip where guests can reach, and surround with veggies, chips, crackers, pita.
Tip: If your crackers or breadsticks are fragile, place them gently and don’t overload the dip area. Put heavier ones toward the center so they stay upright.
Notes
- The key to a good texture is draining the spinach well — too much water and the dip becomes watery.
- Softening cream cheese ahead (leave at room temp) helps mixing smoother.
- Decorating is fun but light touches are best — too many crackers can break the surface.
- The spooky tombstone look is just for fun; the flavor is what wins people over.
