This spinach artichoke dip is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in. Serve it warm with chips or bread for a delightful treat that will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into how to create this delectable dish that will surely become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/2 cup) of this spinach artichoke dip contains approximately 250 calories, 20g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. These values are based on one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add the chopped artichoke hearts and thawed spinach to the mixture.
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Mix in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, bread, or vegetable sticks.
- Enjoy your delicious spinach artichoke dip!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option or use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version. Additionally, fresh spinach can replace frozen spinach if you prefer a fresher taste.
Serving and Pairings
This spinach artichoke dip pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks. It’s also great as a topping for baked potatoes or served alongside grilled meats.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. This dip can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not draining the spinach well can make the dip watery.
- Overbaking can cause the dip to dry out; keep an eye on it.
- Using low-fat cream cheese may result in a less creamy texture.
- Forgetting to season can lead to a bland dip.
- Not mixing well can leave lumps of cream cheese.
- Skipping the garlic can reduce the flavor.
- Using stale chips can ruin the overall experience.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest.
- Try mixing in some cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve with a variety of dippers for more options.
- Make a double batch for larger gatherings!
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving, and it will taste fresh and delicious.
Is it possible to make this dip in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until melted and bubbly.
Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh artichokes, but they require more preparation. Make sure to cook and chop them before adding to the dip.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can replace mayonnaise with additional sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
How can I make this dip spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes to increase the heat level according to your taste.
Conclusion
This spinach artichoke dip recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress guests with a delicious appetizer. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect choice for a variety of occasions. Whether served at a party or enjoyed during a cozy night at home, this dip is sure to be a hit!
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen spinach thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add the chopped artichoke hearts and thawed spinach to the mixture.
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Mix in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, bread, or vegetable sticks.
- Enjoy your delicious spinach artichoke dip!
Nutrition
