This creamy Bacon Spinach Artichoke Dip is a tasty mix of flavors! With crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and delicious artichokes, it’s perfect for dipping with chips or veggies.
Honestly, my favorite part is the bacon—who can resist that crispy goodness? I always end up making extra just to enjoy it by the spoonful! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: This adds a delicious smoky crunch! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even chopped olives can work as a substitute.
Artichoke hearts: Canned artichoke hearts are the easiest to use, but if you want a fresher taste, try using fresh artichokes cooked and chopped. Frozen artichokes can also be a good swap if cans aren’t available.
Spinach: Frozen spinach is convenient as it’s pre-washed and chopped. You can also use fresh spinach; just chop it and sauté briefly to wilt before adding.
Cream cheese: If you want a lighter dip, use Neufchâtel cheese or low-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cream cheese.
Sour cream and mayo: Plain Greek yogurt can replace both for added protein. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based yogurt or cashew cream.
How Do I Get the Dip Creamy and Smooth?
Achieving that smooth, creamy texture in your dip starts with the cream cheese. Make sure it’s truly softened. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it for about 10 seconds. Then, mix it well with the sour cream and mayonnaise until it’s smooth.
- Combine until there are no lumps; a hand mixer can help!
- Add other ingredients gently to keep the dip fluffy.
- Don’t skip the baking step; this helps blend all the flavors and gives a nice golden touch.
Bacon Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- French baguette or toasted bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bacon Spinach Artichoke Dip will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Total time: about 40 minutes. It’s great for gatherings or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the dip will cook evenly and be ready to dig into!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
3. Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients:
To the creamy mixture, add the chopped artichoke hearts, thinned and drained spinach, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until fully combined.
5. Incorporate Bacon:
Mix in most of the crumbled bacon, but be sure to save some for topping later! Taste your mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Transfer and Bake:
Next, take a greased oven-safe dish and pour the dip mixture into it, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and golden on top.
7. Top it Off:
Once baked, carefully remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle the reserved crumbled bacon on top for an extra crunch and flavor boost!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm dip alongside slices of fresh baguette or toasted bread. Grab your favorite dippers and enjoy this scrumptious Bacon Spinach Artichoke Dip!
Happy dipping! 😊
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, you can use about 4 cups. Just wash, chop, and sauté it briefly until wilted before adding it to the dip mixture. This will give your dip a vibrant flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or even more sour cream. This will still provide creaminess while adding a bit of tang!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip in advance! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.