Lightly coat an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
Add the spinach and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Place the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise in a medium mixing bowl. Stir until smooth.
Add ¾ cup mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until combined.
Add the cooked spinach and garlic to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until evenly mixed.
Transfer the spinach mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the dip is hot, bubbling around the edges, and lightly golden on top.
Let the dip rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Tips and Tricks
Remove Excess Moisture – Squeeze the thawed spinach thoroughly before using it. Too much water can make your dip thin and watery.Soften the Cream Cheese – Room-temperature cream cheese is much easier to mix and helps prevent lumps.Make It Ahead – Assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when you're ready to serve. A chilled dip may need a few extra minutes in the oven.Adjust the Heat – The crushed red pepper flakes add a little warmth. Leave them out for a milder dip, or increase them slightly if you enjoy spicy appetizers.Keep It Warm – Serve the dip in a warm baking dish so the cheese stays soft and creamy longer. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerating – Transfer leftover dip to an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of serving. Store for up to 3 to 4 days.Reheating in the Oven – Place leftover dip in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until hot throughout. The center should reach 165°F.Reheating in the Microwave – Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until heated through to 165°F.Freezing – Freezing isn't recommended for the best texture. The cream cheese and sour cream can separate after thawing, leaving the dip grainy or watery.