This creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip is a crowd-pleaser with its blend of cheesy goodness and tasty greens. Perfect for parties or cozy nights in front of the TV!
Who can resist dipping crunchy chips into this warm, cheesy treasure? I always make sure to have extra because it disappears faster than you can say, “More, please!” 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Using frozen spinach is super convenient, just make sure it’s well-drained. If you prefer fresh, use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, sauté it first to wilt it down.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichokes work great for this recipe. You could also use marinated artichokes for added flavor, though they might alter the dip’s consistency slightly.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, you can substitute with a low-fat cream cheese. I sometimes mix in a little ricotta for a creamier texture, and it works well!
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a healthier twist, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for both sour cream and mayonnaise. It adds a nice tang too.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan are perfect, but feel free to mix in some cheddar or even pepper jack for a flavorful change. I love using a blend of cheeses for a richer taste.
How Do You Get That Perfect Creamy Texture?
The key to a creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip lies in how you mix and bake the ingredients. Start by ensuring that your cream cheese is softened. This makes it much easier to blend with the other ingredients.
- Mix the cream cheese with sour cream and mayonnaise until it’s smooth. No lumps! This will be your base.
- – After adding spinach and artichokes, mix gently so you don’t break up the artichoke hearts too much.
- Baking it until it’s bubbly and golden brown creates that perfect crust while keeping the inside creamy.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. This helps it set and makes dipping easier.
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick
- Crackers or toasted bread slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in just around 40 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dip ready to impress your friends or family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your dip bakes evenly and becomes bubbly and delicious!
2. Mix the Cream Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a fork or an electric mixer to blend them until smooth. This creamy base is the heart of your dip!
3. Add the Spinach and Artichokes:
Once your cream base is smooth, add the well-drained and chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined. These greens add flavor and texture to your dip!
4. Stir in the Cheeses and Seasonings:
Now, it’s time to add the minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. If you like a little heat, toss in that pinch of crushed red pepper flakes! Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grab an 8-inch round baking dish (or similar size) and transfer the dip mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want it to be bubbly and have a nice golden brown top.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes—trust me, it’ll be hot! After cooling, serve it warm with your favorite crackers or toasted bread slices for dipping.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delightful Spinach Artichoke Dip! It’s a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, you’ll need about 1 pound. Sauté it in a pan until wilted before draining and adding it to the mixture. This will give your dip a fresh, vibrant flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’d like to skip the mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute. It adds a nice tang to the dip and keeps it creamy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
