This Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy blend of cheesy goodness with tender spinach and flavorful artichokes. Perfect for dipping with chips or veggies!
It always brings smiles at parties, and let’s be real, you might want to keep it all for yourself. I know I do! Just whip it up, bake, and watch it disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: I prefer using frozen chopped spinach because it’s super easy. Just thaw and drain it! If you have fresh spinach, feel free to use it, just cook it down beforehand and chop it well.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichokes are convenient. If you can find marinated artichokes, they add extra flavor! You can even use fresh artichokes, but they require more work to prepare.
Cheese: Cream cheese gives a great base, while mozzarella adds stretch. Very mild cheeses like Monterey Jack work too. For Parmesan, if you’re out, try Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano for a different twist.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the dip’s creamy richness. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s plain and unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced.
How Do You Make Sure Your Dip is Creamy and Smooth?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key! Start with softened cream cheese to avoid clumps. Mix the mayonnaise and sour cream until well blended before adding the other ingredients. This approach helps everything combine smoothly.
- Ensure your spinach is well-drained to prevent excess water from making it runny.
- Mix everything by hand rather than a mixer to keep some texture.
- Baking until bubbly helps meld all flavors, but don’t overbake it. Keep an eye on that golden brown top.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Sliced baguette or toasted bread rounds
Time Needed:
This delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in about 45 minutes or less, you can have a warm, cheesy appetizer ready for your family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when your dip is ready to go in!
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend these ingredients together until they are nice and smooth.
3. Add the Good Stuff:
Next, gently fold in the thawed and drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and the colors come together beautifully.
4. Season and Prepare for Baking:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix again! Then, transfer the mixture into a baking dish, ideally around 8 inches in size.
5. Bake Until Golden:
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the top to be bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm and creamy spinach artichoke dip with crispy baguette slices or toasted bread rounds. Trust me, it’s going to be a hit!
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Spinach Artichoke Dip—you’ll be the star of any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, you’ll want to cook it down first. Sauté about 1-2 cups of fresh spinach in a pan until wilted, then chop it finely before adding it to the mixture. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture!
How Can I Store Leftover Dip?
Leftover spinach artichoke dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance! Simply assemble the mixture, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Serve with Spinach Artichoke Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with sliced baguette, tortilla chips, or toasted pita bread. You can also serve it with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a healthier option!
