Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip: The Ultimate Party Favorite
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor? This Spinach Artichoke Dip is the answer! A classic party staple, this dip combines tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and a rich, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for dipping. Whether you’re hosting a game night, holiday gathering, or just craving a cozy snack, this recipe is sure to impress.
Originating from American cuisine, Spinach Artichoke Dip has become a beloved dish for its comforting flavors and versatility. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always a hit with guests. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why This Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and uses simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan creates a creamy base, while the spinach and artichokes add a fresh, tangy flavor. It’s baked to golden perfection, giving it a warm, gooey texture that’s irresistible.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it hot or cold, with chips, bread, or veggies. It’s also easy to customize—add extra cheese, spices, or even a dash of hot sauce to make it your own.
What’s In Spinach Artichoke Dip?
The magic of this dip lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds a vibrant green color and earthy flavor.
- Artichokes: Canned or jarred artichoke hearts provide a tangy, slightly sweet taste.
- Cream Cheese: Creates a rich, creamy base for the dip.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps balance the richness of the cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps create a golden crust when baked.
- Garlic: Infuses the dip with a savory, aromatic flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Adds gooey, melty goodness to the dip.
How To Make Spinach Artichoke Dip
This recipe is incredibly easy to make and comes together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- If using fresh spinach, wilt it in a pan with a little oil and let it cool. Squeeze out any excess moisture. If using frozen spinach, thaw and drain it well.
- Chop the artichoke hearts into small pieces.
- Mince the garlic and grate the cheeses if not already pre-grated.
Step 2: Mix the Dip
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth.
- Add the chopped spinach, artichokes, Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until well combined.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
Step 3: Bake the Dip
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the dip cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Serve with tortilla chips, bread slices, or fresh veggies.
Sides for Spinach Artichoke Dip
Pair your Spinach Artichoke Dip with these delicious sides:
- Tortilla Chips: Classic and crunchy, perfect for scooping.
- Garlic Bread: Warm and buttery, ideal for dipping.
- Fresh Veggies: Carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers add a refreshing crunch.
- Pita Chips: Crispy and slightly salty, a great alternative to tortilla chips.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid a watery dip.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Other Recipes To Try
- Buffalo Chicken Dip: A spicy, cheesy dip perfect for game day.
- Loaded Baked Potato Dip: All the flavors of a baked potato in dip form.
- Roasted Red Pepper Dip: A smoky, slightly sweet dip that’s great with crackers.
- Jalapeño Popper Dip: A creamy, spicy dip with a crunchy topping.
- Caramelized Onion Dip: A rich, savory dip with a hint of sweetness.
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh spinach or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and garlic until smooth.
- Add spinach, artichokes, Parmesan, and ½ cup mozzarella. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve with chips, bread, or veggies.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dip a day in advance and bake before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Customization: Add extra cheese, spices, or hot sauce to suit your taste.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dip for up to 1 month. Thaw before baking.
- Serving: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
Enjoy your Spinach Artichoke Dip! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
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