This warm Spinach Artichoke Dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with tasty flavors. It’s perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying on a cozy night in!
The best part? It’s super easy to make! I love serving it with crispy chips or fresh veggies for dipping. It disappears quickly at gatherings; everyone just loves it! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Chopped Spinach: This is a main ingredient that adds color and nutrition. If you want a fresher taste, you can use fresh spinach instead; just sauté it until wilted and drain it well.
Artichoke Hearts: A can of artichoke hearts brings in a unique flavor. If you don’t have canned, you can use marinated artichoke hearts or even frozen ones after thawing them. They all work beautifully!
Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for the sheeniest texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, there are lower-fat cream cheeses available, or you can try Greek yogurt, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Cheeses: I love mozzarella for its meltiness, and Parmesan for a savory kick. If you can’t find them, swap for any other melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Just pick what you enjoy!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These add creaminess. You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or tofu for a healthier twist. For the mayo, use a vegan alternative if you’re keeping it plant-based.
How Do You Get the Best Creamy Texture?
The key to achieving the perfect creamy dip lies in mixing the ingredients properly. Make sure your cream cheese is softened so it blends smoothly. Here’s how to get it right:
- Leave the cream cheese out for at least 30 minutes before mixing, or microwave it for about 10 seconds.
- Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo gently until smooth, avoiding any lumps.
- When adding other ingredients, fold them in carefully to keep the dip light and creamy.
Remember, don’t rush it! Bake until bubbly for that delightful creamy goodness everyone loves.
How to Make 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
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 25-30 minutes for baking. So in total, it’ll take you around 35-40 minutes to make this delicious dip!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, the oven will be ready for your dip as soon as you’re done mixing the ingredients. Don’t forget to lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish, or any similar sized dish you have on hand!
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a mixing bowl, take your softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend these together until the mixture is really smooth and creamy. This is where your dip gets its rich texture!
3. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:
Now, toss in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir these ingredients together until they’re evenly mixed. The cheese will add so much flavor and creaminess!
4. Combine with Spinach and Artichokes:
Gently fold in the chopped artichoke hearts and the thoroughly drained spinach into your creamy mixture. Make sure everything is well combined, but be careful not to over-mix, so the dip stays light and fluffy!
5. Bake the Dip:
Once combined, transfer the spinach-artichoke mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
After baking, carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to handle. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips, and watch it disappear!
Enjoy your warm, creamy, cheesy spinach artichoke dip—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in! 😋
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, you can use about 10-12 ounces. Sauté it in a little olive oil until it wilts, then drain it well before adding to the dip mixture. Just remember to cool it down slightly before mixing!
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, though it might change the flavor a bit. If you want to maintain a creamy texture, consider using ricotta or even a vegan cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for plant-based options.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave individual portions for a quick snack.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time! Just mix all the ingredients and place them in the greased baking dish. Cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready, pop it in the oven—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
