This Spinach Artichoke Dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with healthy greens. It’s perfect for sharing at parties or just enjoying on a cozy night in!
Let’s be real, it’s hard to resist the cheesy goodness! I love serving it with crunchy chips or warm bread. It’s like a hug in a bowl. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: I prefer using frozen chopped spinach because it’s easy and saves time. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid a watery dip. Fresh spinach works too, just sauté it first until wilted!
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichoke hearts are convenient, but you can use jarred ones. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasting fresh artichokes for a richer taste, although that takes more time.
Cream Cheese: This is a creamy base for the dip. If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Some even use silken tofu for a vegan option! Just blend it really smooth.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices! If you want to switch things up, try adding cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Nutritional yeast can be a great cheese substitute for a vegan dip.
Mayonnaise: It adds richness. If you don’t have mayo, you can use more sour cream or a bit of plain Greek yogurt. This keeps the texture creamy!
How Can I Make Sure My Dip is Creamy and Not Watery?
A common challenge is ending up with a watery dip, which can dampen your serving experience. Here’s how to prevent that:
- Make sure to drain thawed spinach thoroughly. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- When using artichokes, chop them finely and press out excess liquid before adding them to the mix.
- Mix all ingredients well before baking. This helps the cheeses and cream blend together nicely.
- Don’t skip the baking time! The heat helps evaporate any remaining moisture and brings flavors together.
If you follow these tips, your spinach artichoke dip will be a crowd favorite! Enjoy! 😊
Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be enjoying warm, cheesy goodness in about 40 minutes total! Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the magic temperature for perfectly baked spinach artichoke dip!
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Using a spatula or mixer, stir until everything is smooth and creamy. This creates the rich base of your dip.
3. Add the Goodies:
Now, stir in the drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, minced garlic, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and if you like a little heat, toss in those crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Bake the Dip:
Transfer your mix to a baking dish, about 8 inches round or similar. Spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell wonderful!
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes to settle. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or crunchy crackers. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Happy dipping! Your creamy, cheesy spinach artichoke dip is sure to impress everyone! 😊
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh spinach, you’ll want to sauté it in a bit of olive oil until wilted before mixing it into the dip. About 1-2 cups of fresh spinach should work well, but make sure to chop it finely and drain any excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and similar creaminess. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a non-dairy yogurt alternative!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip the day before, store it in the fridge, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to allow extra baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.