This hot spinach artichoke dip is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! It’s made with fresh spinach and artichokes, blended with gooey cheese for the perfect party snack.
It’s always a hit at gatherings. I like to pair it with crispy chips or fresh veggies, and I warn you—it’s hard to stop at just one bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Chopped Spinach: This is a key component, adding a healthy twist. If fresh spinach is available, you can use that instead! Just sauté about 1 pound of fresh spinach until wilted and chop it before adding.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichoke hearts are convenient and work great here. If you prefer, you can use fresh artichokes, but prepping them takes more time. You can also look for marinated artichokes for extra flavor!
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt, but know it might slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These ingredients add richness. You can substitute plain yogurt for sour cream, while using a vegan mayo can work if you want a dairy-free version.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices. If you want a bolder flavor, consider adding some sharp cheddar or a bit of feta cheese.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture?
To get that dreamy, creamy dip, it’s important to properly mix the ingredients. Here’s what to do:
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy blending.
- Mix all your ingredients well before transferring them to the baking dish, ensuring a uniform texture.
- Bake the dip until it’s bubbly and golden—this enhances the flavors and creates a lovely crust.
Trust me, taking the time to mix it well and watch for that golden top makes a world of difference!
Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 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
- Olive oil (optional, for sautéing garlic)
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake, making for a total time of about 40 minutes. Perfect for your next gathering or movie night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important for getting that bubbly, golden finish on your dip!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a medium skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat (if you prefer). Add the minced garlic and sauté it until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute. This step enhances the flavor of the dip.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, the sautéed garlic, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, and drained spinach. Mix everything well until smooth and evenly combined. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Now, take your well-mixed dip and transfer it into an oven-safe baking dish or a skillet. Spread the mixture evenly so it cooks nicely.
5. Bake Your Dip:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbly and golden top—this is when it’s at its best!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This dip is best served warm, so grab your favorite toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips and dig in!
Enjoy your hot, creamy, cheesy spinach artichoke dip! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 1 pound. Simply sauté it with the garlic until wilted, then chop and mix it into the dip.
How Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the dip in advance and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a substitute, Greek yogurt works great! It adds creaminess while reducing calories and fat. You can also skip it altogether if you prefer a thicker dip.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if it seems too thick.
