Name: Spinach Artichoke Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 16 ounces block-style cream cheese (room temperature); 2 cups coarsely chopped artichoke hearts; 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano; ½ cup Italian 4-Cheese Shred; 2 cloves garlic (finely minced); ½ teaspoon garlic salt; 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped); ½ cup shredded mozzarella; Salt and pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm dip, especially when it’s a rich and creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip. I remember the first time I made it for a gathering. Friends were arriving, and I wanted to impress them with something special. As I stirred the mixture of cream cheese, artichoke hearts, and spinach, the aroma filled my kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste. When it was finally time to dig in, the warm, bubbly cheese was the star of the show, and everyone couldn’t get enough! This dip has become a staple at all my get-togethers, and each time I make it, I’m reminded of those laughter-filled moments shared over a bowl of cheesy goodness.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Oven, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Baking Sheet

The Beauty of This Spinach Artichoke Dip

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively party, the Spinach Artichoke Dip fits right in. It’s an appetizer that pleases everyone, making it a go-to for any season.

Cheesy Goodness

The blend of cheeses—like Parmigiano Reggiano and mozzarella—adds a creamy, dreamy texture that keeps you coming back for more. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that makes it hard to stop at just one scoop!

Make Ahead Convenience

What’s better than a dish that you can prepare in advance? You can whip up the Spinach Artichoke Dip a day before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when your guests arrive, and voilà! Freshly baked dip without the last-minute rush.

Classic Ingredients

The combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, and garlic isn’t just delicious; it’s also wholesome. This dip allows you to indulge while still enjoying some nutritional benefits from the greens.

Fun to Serve

Serving this dip is half the fun! The options are endless—think tortilla chips, crackers, or even fresh veggies. It’s a great way to get everyone mingling as they dive into the cheesy bliss.

Great for Sharing

This dip encourages sharing and connection, making it perfect for gatherings. It’s not just food; it’s a way to bring people together, creating memories with every delicious scoop.

Ingredients Overview for Spinach Artichoke Dip

The ingredients for this Spinach Artichoke Dip come together like an artist’s palette—each one playing a crucial role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Key players include rich cream cheese for creaminess, fresh spinach for earthiness, and tangy artichoke hearts to elevate the taste. Together, they create a dip that’s both comforting and indulgent.

16 ounces block-style cream cheese, room temperature: This is the base of your dip, providing creaminess and richness that makes every bite heavenly.
2 cups coarsely chopped artichoke hearts: These lend a subtle tang and texture, making your dip truly special.
10 ounces frozen chopped spinach: Packed with nutrients, it adds a vibrant green color and a fresh flavor.
½ cup mayonnaise: This ingredient enhances creaminess and contributes to the luxurious texture of the dip.
½ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that balances beautifully with the other ingredients.
½ cup Italian 4-Cheese Shred: This blend of cheeses melts beautifully, providing a gooey, delicious topping.
2 cloves garlic, finely minced: A flavor powerhouse that adds depth and aroma to your dip.
½ teaspoon garlic salt: It amplifies the garlic flavor, making the dip irresistible.
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: This herb adds a fresh approach, brightening the overall flavor profile.
½ cup shredded mozzarella: For that classic melty topping that everyone loves.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors in the dip.

How to Cook Spinach Artichoke Dip

Cooking up this Spinach Artichoke Dip is as enjoyable as eating it! Follow these easy steps to create a creamy, cheesy delight that everyone will love. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial; it ensures your dip cooks evenly and gets nice and bubbly. As the oven warms up, lightly coat a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray. I usually opt for an 8-inch pan, which works perfectly for this amount of dip.
Now, let’s cook the spinach. Follow the package directions, then drain it well. You can use a fine-mesh sieve or simply squeeze it in a kitchen towel to get rid of excess moisture. It’s important to ensure the spinach isn’t soggy, so take your time with this step. Set the drained spinach aside.
In a large bowl, it’s time to mix everything together. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment to beat the cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmigiano Reggiano, Italian 4-Cheese Shred, garlic, and garlic salt. You’ll want this mixture to be well combined and creamy to ensure a smooth dip.
Once your cheese mixture is ready, add in the chopped artichoke hearts, drained spinach, and chopped basil. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, stir gently until everything is well mixed. This is where the magic happens! The colors and textures come together to create a visually appealing mix.
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; taste as you go! A little seasoning can really elevate the overall flavor of the dip.
Now, spread the dip into your prepared baking pan. Make sure it’s evenly distributed. Top it off with the shredded mozzarella for a cheesy finish. This will create that beautiful, bubbly top we all crave.
Time to bake! Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is hot and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. If you want an extra crispy top, you can put the dip under the broiler for a minute—just watch it closely because it can go from golden to burnt in a flash!
Once it’s ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few moments. This dip is best served hot, so prepare your dippers—bread cubes, tortilla chips, crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies—while you wait!
Grab a spoon, serve, and enjoy the accolades! Your friends and family will be asking for the recipe, I promise.

Things Worth Knowing

Tip 1: Always drain your spinach well. Excess moisture can make the dip watery.
Tip 2: For a creamier dip, add more cream cheese or mayonnaise to your mixture.
Tip 3: If you want more flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses that melt well, as they can add unique flavors.

Variations to Try

If you love the base of this Spinach Artichoke Dip, you can get creative with variations. Here are some fun twists you can try!

Roasted Garlic: Roast a whole head of garlic and mash the cloves into the dip for a deeper flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little spice.
Artichoke Alternatives: Swap out some of the artichoke hearts for other ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends—try adding in feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
Make it Lite: Use low-fat versions of the cream cheese and mayonnaise to lighten it up without losing too much creaminess.
Frozen Veggies: Besides spinach, consider adding in frozen peas or chopped broccoli for extra nutrition.

What Complements This Spinach Artichoke Dip

Serving your Spinach Artichoke Dip can be as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to pair with it:

Tortilla Chips: These are a classic choice. They add a nice crunch that complements the creaminess perfectly.
Crackers: Use an assortment of crackers for a crunchy texture contrast. Opt for those with herbs or seeds to enhance the flavor.
Fresh Veggies: Serve with sliced bell peppers, carrots, or celery for a healthy, crunchy alternative.
Seasonal Occasions: This dip is great for any gathering, be it a casual get-together, game day, or holiday party. It’s sure to impress!
Storage Tips: Leftovers (if there are any) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving for that fresh taste.
Serving Style: Serve in a bread bowl for a fun presentation! The bread can be torn and used for dipping.

FAQ

Absolutely! This dip can be prepped up to a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven. If you bake it straight from chilled, just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time. This makes it a convenient option for parties!

There are so many options for dippers! Classic choices include tortilla chips, crackers, and bread cubes. For a healthier twist, fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrot sticks, or celery are great too. Get creative and mix it up according to your taste preferences!

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Just remember that the texture may vary slightly after storing, but it will still be delicious!

Yes, you can freeze this dip! It’s best to freeze it before baking. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dish for future gatherings!

Conclusion

This Spinach Artichoke Dip is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings people together. The creaminess of the cheese combined with the richness of the spinach and artichokes makes every bite a delight. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering or cozy night in. You won’t regret it!