Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with vibrant greens, the Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe is your new best friend. This dip perfectly blends the tang of sour cream and mayonnaise with the richness of cream cheese and a delightful mix of mozzarella and Parmesan, all combined with tender spinach and artichokes. It’s easy to whip up, irresistibly comforting, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any gathering. Trust me, once you try this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dip that’s bursting with flavor and fantastic texture. Each plays an essential role, from the creamy cheeses that give luscious richness to the fresh veggies adding color and zest.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The creamy base that makes the dip so luscious and smooth.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds tanginess and keeps the dip light and fresh.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Brings a subtle richness and helps marry all the ingredients.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses a fragrant punch that elevates the whole dish.
- Mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, cheesy pull.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Adds sharp, savory depth and a crunchy topping when baked.
- Artichoke hearts (1 14-ounce can, chopped): Brings a slightly tangy and tender texture that complements the cheeses.
- Frozen spinach (6 ounces, thawed and squeezed dry): Provides vibrant green color and a mild earthy taste while keeping the dip fresh.
How to Make Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Combine
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a mixing bowl and combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until you have a nice, smooth base. This creamy trio is where the magic begins, creating the velvety texture you want in every bite.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Veggies
Now, stir in the minced garlic for that irresistible aroma, followed by the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses. Fold in the chopped artichoke hearts and well-drained spinach so they’re evenly distributed. This step balances flavors and textures perfectly, ensuring each spoonful has that classic hot spinach artichoke dip goodness.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Spread your mixture evenly into a 1-quart baking dish. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling hot and the top has a lightly golden crust from the cheeses. This is when the dip truly comes alive, transforming into gooey, cheesy bliss.
How to Serve Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and flavor, sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley on top after baking. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you like a touch of heat. These little touches make your dip look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dip shines alongside sliced baguette, crispy crackers, or crunchy tortilla chips. You can also pair it with veggie sticks like celery and carrots for a refreshing crunch. No matter what you choose, it’s all about that satisfying scoop and dip combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching serving idea, try hollowing out a round loaf of bread and using it as a bowl. It’s both practical and adds an extra edible element! You can also serve the Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe in individual ramekins for personal portions—perfect for parties or cozy evenings in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), place the dip in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Covering it tightly helps maintain that creamy texture and prevents it from drying out.
Freezing
This dip freezes well, making it great for prepping ahead. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leave some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe back to life, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated through and bubbly. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, but watch carefully to avoid overheating and separating the creamy base.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 10 ounces, sauté it lightly to wilt, then squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it into the dip. Fresh spinach will add a slightly brighter flavor and texture.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, but be mindful of what you serve it with. Choose gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks to keep this appetizer safe for those avoiding gluten.
Can I make this dip vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives, and use vegan cheeses. Keep in mind this will change the flavor slightly, but it can still be delicious!
How long does this dip take to prepare?
From start to finish, the Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe takes about 25 minutes—10 minutes prep and 15 minutes baking—making it a quick option for last-minute entertaining.
What if I don’t have mayonnaise?
If you don’t have mayonnaise on hand, you can replace it with an extra 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt. It won’t change the taste too much and still keeps the dip creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe truly is a little bowl of joy. Its blend of creamy cheeses, hearty greens, and tender artichokes comes together so easily, it’s perfect for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, celebrating a holiday, or just craving something comforting, this dip never fails to impress. Give it a try, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and again!
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Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, artichoke hearts, and spinach, it’s baked until bubbly and served warm with your favorite dippers.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, chopped
- 6 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Stir in the minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped artichoke hearts, and the thawed, squeezed spinach until well combined.
- Prepare for baking: Spread the combined mixture evenly into a 1-quart baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve warm with sliced baguette, crackers, or tortilla chips for dipping.
Notes
- For best results, squeeze out as much moisture from the spinach as possible to prevent a watery dip.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for richer flavor.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- This dip can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; just bake before serving.
- Serve with a variety of dippers like toasted bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
