Save to Pinterest This creamy baked spinach and artichoke dish features tender artichoke hearts and spinach folded into a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella. Seasoned with garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes, it’s baked until golden and bubbly. Ideal served warm alongside chips or fresh bread, this flavorful appetizer suits easy entertaining and casual gatherings.
The first time I brought this spinach and artichoke dip to a friend's game night, I honestly thought it might be too simple to impress anyone. I had spent all of ten minutes throwing it together before rushing out the door, still wearing my flour-dusted apron. Within fifteen minutes of arriving, the bowl was scraped completely clean and three different people had asked me for the recipe. Now it is the one dish I am genuinely asked to bring to every single gathering.
I have learned the hard way that this dip needs to come out of the oven about ten minutes before people actually start eating. There is nothing quite like the sound of a hot dip bubbling away to draw a crowd into the kitchen. My sister once stood directly in front of the oven watching it brown through the glass door like a hawk. That is the kind of anticipation this recipe deserves.
Ingredients
- Artichoke hearts: Canned ones work perfectly here, just make sure to drain them really well and chop into bite sized pieces that will distribute evenly through every bite
- Frozen spinach: Thaw it completely and squeeze it until your hands hurt, because water is the enemy of a creamy dip
- Garlic: Fresh minced gives the best punch, but do not be shy with it because the dairy tames the sharpness
- Cream cheese: Let it soften completely on the counter first to avoid any lumpy surprises in your finished dip
- Sour cream: Adds that perfect tangy balance to cut through all the rich cheese
- Mayonnaise: Sounds strange but this is actually the secret ingredient that restaurant dips use
- Mozzarella cheese: Freshly grated melts better than the pre shredded stuff with anti caking agents
- Parmesan cheese: This adds that salty, nutty depth that makes the dip taste properly finished
- Salt and pepper: Start with less than you think you need, especially with all that salty Parmesan
- Red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to make people wonder what that special something is
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Get it to 190°C (375°F) and give your baking dish a quick rub of oil so nothing sticks later.
- Make the creamy base:
- Beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until you cannot see any separate lumps anymore.
- Add the cheese and seasonings:
- Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and those red pepper flakes until everything is evenly distributed.
- Fold in the vegetables:
- Gently mix in the chopped artichokes and spinach until they are spread throughout without being completely overwhelmed.
- Transfer to your baking dish:
- Scrape everything into your prepared dish and use the back of a spoon to smooth the top into an even layer.
- Bake until bubbly:
- Let it go for 20 to 25 minutes until you see golden brown spots and the edges are bubbling enthusiastically.
- Serve it immediately:
- Put it right on the table with whatever dipping vessels you prefer while it is still irresistibly hot.
Save to Pinterest Last New Year's Eve I made a triple batch of this dip because we were having people over, and honestly I was not sure it would all get eaten. By midnight I had to physically block someone from eating it straight from the baking dish with a spoon. That is when I knew this recipe had officially earned its permanent place in my regular rotation.
Making It Ahead
You can absolutely assemble everything the day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. Just add an extra five minutes to the baking time if it is coming straight from the fridge cold.
Serving Ideas
Beyond the usual tortilla chips, try toasted baguette slices, pita bread, or even raw vegetables for dipping. The contrast of warm, cheesy dip against something crisp and cool is exactly what makes this combination work.
Easy Variations
Sometimes I swap in Monterey Jack or add a handful of crumbled bacon on top during the last five minutes of baking. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also brighten everything up beautifully.
- Try adding chopped sun dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy twist
- A handful of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top adds nice color
- Extra mozzarella sprinkled on top in the last few minutes creates the best cheese pull
Save to Pinterest There is something so comforting about a hot, bubbling dip on the table that makes people slow down and actually talk. This recipe has turned into more than just food for me—it is the way I bring people together.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
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Yes, you can mix all ingredients in advance and bake just before serving to retain freshness and warmth.
- → What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
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Monterey Jack or smoked gouda are great alternatives that add unique flavor notes while maintaining creaminess.
- → How can I make the dip spicier?
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Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking for a gentle kick.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
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Serve warm with tortilla chips, baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
- → Is it possible to use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
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Fresh spinach can be used if wilted and squeezed dry to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
