Save Spinach Artichoke Dip is a timeless classic, loved for its rich, creamy texture and savory blend of flavors. This crowd-pleasing appetizer combines tender artichoke hearts and fresh spinach with a decadent mix of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, making it the perfect centerpiece for any party or casual snack session.
Save Whether you're preparing for a big holiday gathering or just looking for a comforting treat to enjoy during a movie night, this dip is incredibly easy to whip up. It offers a sophisticated flavor profile with minimal effort, ensuring it remains a favorite for hosts and guests alike.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 5 oz (140 g) fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry); 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Dairy: 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened; 1 cup (115 g) shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream; 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
- Seasonings: 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2
- If using fresh spinach, sauté in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Let cool, then squeeze out excess moisture and chop.
- Step 3
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
- Step 4
- Fold in the chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Step 5
- Transfer the mixture to a 1-quart (1-liter) baking dish and spread evenly.
- Step 6
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Step 7
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with chips, bread, or vegetable sticks.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
A critical step for the best texture is ensuring your spinach is as dry as possible after wilting or thawing. Using a kitchen towel to squeeze out moisture prevents the dip from becoming watery during the baking process.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. If you prefer a bit more kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños to the mixture.
Serviervorschläge
This dip is best served warm alongside crunchy tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. For a perfect drink pairing, enjoy it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Save Once you take this dip out of the oven, the aroma of garlic and melted cheese will instantly draw everyone to the kitchen. It’s a warm, comforting appetizer that truly defines what it means to be a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 1 cup of frozen spinach that has been thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry. This eliminates the sautéing step and works equally well in the dip.
- → How do I prevent the dip from becoming watery?
The key is removing excess moisture from the spinach. Whether using fresh or frozen, squeeze the cooked spinach firmly in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as possible before mixing.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the entire mixture, transfer to the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking, and add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.
- → What are the best serving options?
Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita chips, toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. The dip pairs wonderfully with crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc.
- → How can I make this lighter or healthier?
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, use reduced-fat cream cheese, or replace mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt. These swaps reduce calories and fat while maintaining a creamy texture.
- → Can I add other ingredients to customize it?
Yes, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, crumbled bacon, or jalapeños for variation. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère or fontina for unique flavor profiles.