This hot spinach artichoke dip is creamy and cheesy, making it the perfect snack for any gathering. It’s packed with spinach, artichokes, and a blend of tasty cheeses!
Honestly, this dip is a crowd-pleaser. Everyone loves it, and I love that it’s super easy to whip up. Just mix, bake, and share—if you don’t finish it all first! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Frozen spinach is a real time-saver here! Just remember to squeeze it dry to avoid a watery dip. If you prefer fresh, you can use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, wilt it down, and chop it.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichokes are convenient. If you can’t find them, frozen artichoke hearts work, too. You can also use marinated artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try cashew cream or vegan cream cheese. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it can work in a pinch!
Cheese Blend: I love using both mozzarella and Parmesan for that melty and flavorful combo. You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or even cheddar if that’s what you have.
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt as a replacement for both. It gives a nice tang and keeps the dip creamy.
How Can I Ensure the Perfectly Creamy Dip Consistency?
To get that ultimate creamy texture, focus on mixing the ingredients thoroughly. Here’s how:
- Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened. I recommend taking it out of the fridge about an hour before mixing.
- When combining cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, beat them together until there are no lumps. A hand mixer can help with this!
- Be careful not to overcook the dip. Look for bubbling edges and a golden top. If it cooks too long, it can become dry.
These techniques will help you create a dip that’s perfectly creamy and delicious every time. Happy dipping!
Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 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
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat
- Crackers, toasted bread slices, or chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a delicious hot spinach artichoke dip ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your dip gets nice and bubbly!
2. Mix the Creamy Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Flavorful Fillings:
Now it’s time to add in all the delicious stuff! Gently fold in the chopped artichoke hearts, well-drained chopped spinach, minced garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and if you like it spicy, the optional red pepper flakes. Make sure everything is evenly mixed!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your creamy mixture into an oven-safe baking dish or skillet. Spread it out evenly to ensure it bakes nicely.
5. Bake Until Bubbly:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, it’s time to dig in! Serve it hot with your choice of crackers, toasted bread slices, or chips for dipping.
This creamy, cheesy dip is perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! You can substitute about 1 pound of fresh spinach for the frozen. Just wilt it down in a pan, chop it, and make sure to squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the dip.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you want to make it spicier, add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer it milder, simply omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip ahead of time, assemble it in the baking dish, and cover it tightly. Just refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it right before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.