Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute with fresh spinach. Use about 8-10 ounces and wilt it down first in a hot pan with a touch of oil. Let it cool, then squeeze out excess moisture and chop before adding to the dip.

My dip seems too thick. How can I thin it out?

Simply add more warm milk, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember that the dip will continue to thicken as it cools.

Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Melt the cheese with milk in the slow cooker on low for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Then add remaining ingredients and heat for another 30 minutes before serving. Keep on the "warm" setting during your gathering.

Is there a substitute for Velveeta Queso Blanco?

While Velveeta provides the signature smooth texture, you can substitute with 16 ounces of white American cheese from the deli counter (not pre-packaged slices). Add 1 tablespoon of sodium citrate to the milk if available to help with smoothness.

Copycat 54th Street Gringo Dip Recipe

Name: Copycat 54th Street Gringo Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 ounces frozen spinach; 16 ounces Velveeta queso blanco, cut into large cubes; 1 1/4 cups whole milk; 1 1/2 cups prepared Pico de Gallo; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

This creamy, cheesy Copycat 54th Street Gringo Dip brings the beloved restaurant favorite right to your kitchen with minimal effort. Combining the velvety texture of melted queso blanco with fresh pico de gallo and spinach, this dip delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, freshness, and just the right kick of spice. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal crowd-pleaser for game days, impromptu gatherings, or when you simply need a comforting snack without the restaurant price tag.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant Quality at Home: Capture that exact 54th Street flavor profile without leaving your kitchen or spending restaurant prices.
Quick Assembly: With just 6 ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish, this dip comes together faster than a food delivery order.
Crowd Favorite: Watch your guests hover around this dip at parties – the combination of creamy cheese, fresh vegetables, and mild heat is universally appealing.
Versatile Base: While perfect on its own, this dip provides an excellent foundation for customization to suit your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Frozen Spinach: Provides nutrition, color and texture contrast to the creamy cheese. Make sure to thoroughly squeeze out excess water to prevent a watery dip.
Velveeta Queso Blanco: The secret to that signature smooth, creamy texture that doesn’t break or separate when heated. Its mild flavor lets the other ingredients shine.
Whole Milk: Creates the perfect consistency while adding richness. The fat content in whole milk helps maintain the dip’s silky texture.
Pico de Gallo: Brings fresh flavor, bright color, and textural contrast with its tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime. Use homemade or store-bought depending on your time constraints.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth that elevates the overall flavor profile beyond just creaminess.
Cayenne Pepper: Provides that subtle heat kick that makes this dip addictive rather than overwhelming. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Protein Additions

Transform this dip into a heartier offering by adding browned ground beef, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy bacon bits.

Veggie Boost

Incorporate roasted corn, black beans, or diced avocado for additional texture and nutritional value.

Heat Customization

Swap the cayenne for diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or a spoonful of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smokier heat profile.

Cheese Alternatives

If Velveeta isn’t your thing, try using a combination of American cheese and white cheddar (with a splash of sodium citrate to maintain smoothness).

How to Make Copycat 54th Street Gringo Dip

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach

Defrost your frozen spinach completely, then squeeze it in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove as much excess water as possible. Roughly chop the spinach to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dip.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese

Cut the Velveeta Queso Blanco into large cubes (about 1-inch pieces) and place in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until completely melted and smooth.

Step 3: Add Milk

Gradually whisk in the whole milk until fully incorporated with the melted cheese. Keep the heat at medium and continue stirring to prevent scorching on the bottom.

Step 4: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Add the prepared pico de gallo, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, and cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture. Stir continuously until everything is well combined and the dip is heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer to a serving bowl or keep in a small slow cooker on the warm setting for extended serving time. The dip will continue to thicken as it cools, so serve it warm with your favorite tortilla chips.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Prep Ahead: Make your pico de gallo a day in advance to allow flavors to meld and save time on cooking day.
Low and Slow: If your heat is too high when melting the cheese, you risk scorching it. Patience at medium-low heat yields better results.
Consistency Control: The dip will thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of warm milk and stir to reach desired consistency.
Double Batch: This recipe doubles beautifully for larger gatherings – just use a larger pot and increase melting time slightly.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve with sturdy tortilla chips, warm soft pretzel bites, or crisp vegetable sticks for dipping. The dip’s robust texture can handle heartier dippers without breaking.

Presentation Upgrade

Transfer to a bread bowl for an impressive, edible serving vessel that keeps the dip warm longer and provides an extra treat when the dip is gone.

Complete the Spread

Complement this dip on your appetizer table with contrasting flavors like guacamole, salsa, and a platter of cold meats and cheeses for a complete grazing experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftover dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop nicely with a day in the fridge.

Freezing

While technically possible to freeze, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a microwave at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute with fresh spinach. Use about 8-10 ounces and wilt it down first in a hot pan with a touch of oil. Let it cool, then squeeze out excess moisture and chop before adding to the dip.
My dip seems too thick. How can I thin it out?

Simply add more warm milk, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember that the dip will continue to thicken as it cools.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Melt the cheese with milk in the slow cooker on low for about an hour, stirring occasionally. Then add remaining ingredients and heat for another 30 minutes before serving. Keep on the “warm” setting during your gathering.
Is there a substitute for Velveeta Queso Blanco?

While Velveeta provides the signature smooth texture, you can substitute with 16 ounces of white American cheese from the deli counter (not pre-packaged slices). Add 1 tablespoon of sodium citrate to the milk if available to help with smoothness.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat 54th Street Gringo Dip brings restaurant-quality comfort food right to your kitchen with minimal effort. The creamy, cheesy base balanced with fresh pico and spinach creates an irresistible dip that disappears fast at any gathering. Give it a try for your next party or game day – I guarantee you’ll be asked for the recipe before the chips run out!