Marry Me Dip Recipe

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Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup drained julienne-cut sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon oil from sun-dried tomatoes jar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (6 ounce) package frozen cut leaf spinach, thawed, drained, and patted dry
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/4 cups shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
• Chopped fresh basil
• Crostini toast, for serving

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Gather all the ingredients and set them aside.

Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato oil in a 10-inch enamel-coated cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the tomato paste darkens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the cream cheese and sour cream until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Fold in the thawed spinach, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, sun-dried tomatoes, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 5: Spread the tomato and spinach mixture into an even layer in the skillet. Top with the remaining 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are bubbling.

Step 7: Without removing the skillet from the oven, increase the oven temperature to broil. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is lightly browned on top.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve immediately with crostini toast.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 289
• Total Fat: 24g (31% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (60% DV)
• Cholesterol: 62mg (21% DV)
• Sodium: 421mg (18% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 10g (4% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% DV)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 10g (20% DV)
• Vitamin C: 18mg (20% DV)
• Calcium: 283mg (22% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (9% DV)
• Potassium: 475mg (10% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Marry Me Dip

Marry Me Dip is a modern American appetizer that has quickly gained fame for its creamy texture and bold flavors. The dish is believed to have originated in the early 2010s in the United States, popularized by home cooks sharing recipes online. Its evocative nameMarry Me Dipcomes from the idea that its irresistible taste might prompt a marriage proposal, highlighting just how indulgent and rich the combination of sun-dried tomatoes, cream cheese, and mozzarella can be. Over time, this dip has become a symbol of casual yet luxurious entertaining, perfect for gatherings where comfort meets elegance.

Regional Characteristics

While Marry Me Dip is largely American, its flavor profile is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine, especially the Tuscan region. Ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning give it a Mediterranean touch, reflecting the way Italian flavors have been adapted into mainstream American cooking. In the United States, it is particularly popular in suburban homes and at potluck events, where its warm, melty consistency and savory notes appeal to a wide audience.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional hot spinach dip, which often relies on artichokes and heavy cream, Marry Me Dip distinguishes itself through the inclusion of sun-dried tomatoes and a blend of cheeses that creates a slightly tangy yet creamy texture. Its balanced mix of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella produces a smoother mouthfeel compared to denser cheese dips. The addition of Italian herbs gives it a more layered and aromatic flavor, setting it apart from simpler cheese spreads or jalapeo-based hot dips.

Where Its Typically Served

Marry Me Dip is most commonly served as an appetizer at parties, casual dinners, and holiday gatherings. It is especially suited for serving with crostini, crackers, or toasted baguette slices, which complement its rich, cheesy consistency. Restaurants with a focus on contemporary American cuisine may also feature it as a shareable starter, often garnished with fresh basil to enhance both presentation and flavor.

Interesting Facts

Despite its playful name, the dip has serious culinary appeal. Many cooks experiment with variations by adding ingredients like bacon, smoked Gouda, or roasted red peppers to enhance flavor. Its versatility allows it to be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it convenient for entertaining. Notably, the dips combination of texturesfrom creamy cheese to chewy sun-dried tomatoescreates a memorable eating experience that has contributed to its viral popularity online. Chefs and food bloggers alike praise it for striking a perfect balance between indulgence and approachability, ensuring that it continues to be a favorite at gatherings across the country.

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