Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
When you need a surefire party hit, nothing quite compares to the irresistible charm of Spinach Artichoke Dip. Imagine creamy cheese and tangy artichokes swirled with tender spinach, all bubbling away into gooey perfection—it’s pure happiness in a dish! This appetizer brings everyone together with its garlicky, savory goodness and versatility. It’s the kind of crowd-pleasing dip that disappears fast and always earns recipe requests. Whether you’re hosting a big game, a cozy movie night, or just having friends over to catch up, Spinach Artichoke Dip is always the right call.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about how delightfully simple this ingredient list is! Each one plays an important part—providing flavor, richness, or that signature velvety texture. With just a quick trip to the fridge and pantry, you’ll have everything you need for maximum impact.
- Frozen chopped spinach (10 oz, thawed and drained): The greens bring color, freshness, and a lovely earthy bite—make sure to squeeze out all the moisture for the creamiest dip.
- Artichoke hearts (14 oz can, drained and chopped): Briny, tender, and slightly tangy, these are the star that gives Spinach Artichoke Dip its classic flavor.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a cool, subtle tang and helps lighten up the richness.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Makes the dip extra creamy and helps everything meld together, so don’t skip it!
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The key to that luscious texture—take it out ahead of time so it blends easily.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Super melty and stretchy, it gives each bite the best cheese pull.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings salty, nutty notes, plus it helps with that gorgeous golden crust on top.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): For just the right kick of savory aromatic flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Seasoning the base makes all the flavors pop.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A gentle heat to round out all the creamy goodness.
- Red pepper flakes (pinch, optional): For those who like a little extra zip in their dip.
How to Make Spinach Artichoke Dip
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so everything’s ready to go once you’ve mixed up your dip. While the oven heats, make sure your cream cheese is softened for super easy blending, and thoroughly drain both the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Moisture is the enemy of creamy dips, so squeeze out that spinach well!
Step 2: Mix Creamy Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or a hand mixer and whip until smooth and creamy—this dreamy foundation is what makes Spinach Artichoke Dip so rich and luxurious.
Step 3: Add Veggies, Cheeses, and Flavor
Next, stir in the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Give everything a good mix so each spoonful is loaded with all the flavors and textures.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish (or anything oven-safe of similar size). Smooth the top with your spatula and, for extra pizzazz, sprinkle a little more mozzarella or Parmesan right over the surface. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until it’s bubbly at the edges and the top just begins to turn golden.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Take the dish out carefully (it will be piping hot!), let it stand for about 5 minutes so everyone gets maximum gooeyness, then dig in while the cheese is melty and glorious. Your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible!
How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Dip
Garnishes
Add some fresh flair by sprinkling extra grated Parmesan, a bit of chopped parsley, or even a twist of fresh cracked black pepper over the top just before serving. These small touches make each bite pop and add color that looks gorgeous on your table.
Side Dishes
Spinach Artichoke Dip pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dippers. Classic tortilla chips bring crunch, sliced baguette or toasted pita are perfect for soaking up every bit, and fresh-cut veggies (think carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber) keep things lively and colorful. Don’t be afraid to set out a sampler platter!
Creative Ways to Present
Take things to the next level by hollowing out a round loaf of sourdough to use as an edible bowl—just spoon your hot Spinach Artichoke Dip right inside! Or, try portioning into small ramekins for individual servings at a dinner party. Sometimes, using mini bell peppers or even as a pizza topping will surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), cover your Spinach Artichoke Dip tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making each bite just as delicious the next day!
Freezing
Spinach Artichoke Dip is surprisingly freezer-friendly. To freeze, place the cooled dip in a freezer-safe, airtight container and label it. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simply scoop the dip into an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F for about 15–18 minutes, or until hot and melty again. For speed, the microwave works too—just warm it in short bursts, stirring frequently so the cheese stays smooth.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in Spinach Artichoke Dip?
Absolutely! Just quickly sauté about 10 ounces of fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. It works beautifully and adds a vibrant green color.
Can this dip be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble Spinach Artichoke Dip a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then pop it into the oven just before serving. Easy and perfect for stress-free entertaining!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to choose gluten-free dippers, like corn tortilla chips or gluten-free crackers, if you want to keep it entirely wheat-free.
How can I make this dip lighter?
For a lighter version, try reduced-fat cream cheese, light sour cream, and mayonnaise. You’ll cut down on calories and fat, but the dip will still be ultra creamy and flavorful.
Can I add other cheeses or spices?
Absolutely—feel free to toss in some pepper jack for heat or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra depth. Spinach Artichoke Dip is wonderfully adaptable, so play around with your favorites!
Final Thoughts
There’s just nothing quite like pulling a bubbling dish of Spinach Artichoke Dip from the oven to share with friends and family. It’s comforting, a little indulgent, and always a celebration starter. Give this recipe a try—you’re going to love how quick, easy, and impressive it is!
Print
Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
This Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy and cheesy appetizer perfect for any gathering. With a blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheeses, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that pairs well with chips, bread, or veggies.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts (drained and chopped)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Add spinach, artichokes, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Bake: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Serve warm with chips, bread, or veggies.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add more cheese on top before baking.
- This dip can be prepared a day ahead and baked when needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
