Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy and cheesy delight that warms your heart. Packed with spinach and artichokes, it’s perfect for sharing at parties or cozy nights at home.
This dip brings a smile to everyone’s face! I love serving it with crispy crackers or sliced veggies. Trust me, it’s hard to stop once you start scooping! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Frozen chopped spinach works best, as it’s convenient and already prepped. If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 4 cups and sauté it until wilted, then drain well.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichoke hearts are easy to use, but if you have fresh ones, feel free to cook and chop them instead. Jarred artichokes in oil can add extra flavor, just remember to drain them well.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture. You can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese for a lower-fat option. If you’re dairy-free, look for cream cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy.
Cheeses: I love using both mozzarella and Parmesan for their great melting quality and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese blend.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: You can replace them with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. This will also add a nice tanginess to the dip.
How Do I Ensure My Dip is Perfectly Creamy?
Achieving that creamy texture is essential! When mixing your base, start with softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. It also helps to mix everything in a large bowl until smooth before incorporating the spinach and artichokes.
- Make sure you thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent extra moisture.
- Blend in the garlic with the creamy mixture to infuse flavor evenly.
- Don’t skip the baking step! Baking develops a beautiful crust and keeps the dip warm and gooey.
These tips will help you whip up a delicious, crowd-pleasing dip every time!
Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup 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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing skillet)
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips
- Sliced baguette
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes before you can start enjoying it hot with your favorite dippers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a small cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish with olive oil or butter to ensure your dip doesn’t stick.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Using a spatula or a hand mixer, mix until it’s smooth and blended perfectly—this will become the creamy starting point for your dip.
3. Add Spinach and Artichoke:
Next, stir in the drained and chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Mix until everything is well combined. This is where the dip starts to get its delicious flavor!
4. Incorporate the Cheeses:
Add the minced garlic, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Season it with a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix to combine all those cheesy, savory elements.
5. Transfer and Spread:
Once your mixture is well combined, transfer it into the prepared skillet or baking dish. Spread it evenly so that it bakes nicely throughout.
6. Bake It to Perfection:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the top to be bubbly and golden brown—that’s when you know it’s ready!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help prevent burns and make it easier to scoop! Serve it hot with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or whatever dippers you love.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy goodness packed with spinach and artichokes—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 4 cups. Sauté it in a little olive oil until wilted, then let it cool and drain well before adding it to the dip.
Can I Make This Dip in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dip ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve!
How Do I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like cooked and crumbled bacon, jalapeños for spice, or different cheeses like cheddar for a twist. Just adjust according to your taste preferences!
