Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Introduction

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and savory appetizer that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its rich blend of spinach, artichoke hearts, and gooey cheeses, this dip is perfect for gatherings, game days, or even as a comfort food snack. Served warm and bubbly straight from the oven, it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies.

The first time I made this dip, it was for a game night with friends, and it was gone within minutes! The combination of flavors and textures—the creaminess of the cheese, the earthiness of the spinach, and the tangy, slightly nutty taste of the artichokes—makes it absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences by adding extra garlic, spices, or even a touch of heat with chili flakes.

What’s great about this Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick assembly, you can have a warm, satisfying appetizer ready in no time. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this dip is sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Game-day snacks
• Holiday appetizers
• Party gatherings
• Potlucks
• Indulgent nights in

Why You’ll Love This Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Here’s why Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is always a hit:

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella creates an irresistibly smooth texture.
• Loaded with Flavor: Garlic, Parmesan, and artichokes add bold, savory flavors.
• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and only one dish to bake, this recipe is stress-free and quick to prepare.
• Versatile: Enjoy it with chips, bread, or veggies for endless dipping options.
• Always a Favorite: It’s a classic recipe that’s loved by almost everyone—perfect for entertaining.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 4g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

• 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for topping)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream Cheese: The base of the dip, adding creaminess and richness.
• Artichoke Hearts: Provide a tangy and savory flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Spinach: Adds color, texture, and a hint of earthiness to the dip.
• Parmesan and Mozzarella: Create a cheesy, melty topping and enhance the flavor.
• Garlic: Brings a depth of flavor and complements the cheeses perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to prepare Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

Prepare the Dip Mixture:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 1-quart baking dish or pie dish.
2. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Vegetables: Gently fold in the chopped artichoke hearts, thawed and drained spinach, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Assemble and Bake:

4. Transfer to the Baking Dish: Spread the dip mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top for a golden, bubbly finish. Drizzle olive oil over the top if desired for added richness.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly with golden edges.

Serve Hot:

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or additional Parmesan if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dippers.

How to Serve Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is best served warm and fresh from the oven. Pair it with:

• Bread: Sliced baguette, pita bread, or breadsticks.
• Chips: Tortilla chips, pita chips, or bagel chips.
• Veggies: Fresh veggies like carrot sticks, celery, bell peppers, or cucumbers.
• Crackers: Any sturdy crackers work perfectly for dipping.

Additional Tips for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Here are some tips to make the perfect Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

• Use Fresh Ingredients
• Opt for fresh spinach and artichokes if possible. Sauté the spinach lightly before mixing, and cook or steam fresh artichoke hearts for enhanced flavor.
• Drain Ingredients Well
• If using canned or frozen spinach and artichokes, make sure to drain and squeeze out excess liquid. Too much moisture can make the dip watery.
• Experiment with Cheese Blends
• While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, you can add Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack for more depth. A smoky cheese like smoked gouda can add a unique twist.
• Add a Kick of Heat
• For those who like spice, stir in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Roast the Garlic
• Instead of using raw or minced garlic, try roasting it for a sweeter, more caramelized flavor that complements the richness of the dip.
• Use a Cast Iron Skillet
• Prepare and bake the dip in a cast iron skillet. It helps the dip cook evenly, retains heat, and makes for a rustic presentation.
• Top with Crunch
• Sprinkle breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or panko mixed with a bit of melted butter over the dip before baking for a golden, crispy topping.
• Incorporate Protein
• Add diced cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or even small shrimp to make the dip heartier.
• Serve in a Bread Bowl
• Hollow out a round loaf of bread (like sourdough) and bake the dip inside for an edible serving dish. Use the removed bread for dipping.
• Make It Ahead of Time
• Prep the dip mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it fresh. This saves time when entertaining guests.

Recipe Variations for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Here are 10 ways to customize your Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

1. Bacon Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Add crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Version: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for added heat.
3. Three-Cheese Version: Use a combination of Parmesan, mozzarella, and cream cheese for extra richness.
4. Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the bread and serve with low-carb dippers like cucumber slices or pork rinds.
5. Lemon-Garlic Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy, bright flavor.
6. Crab Spinach Artichoke Dip: Add lump crab meat for a seafood variation.
7. Caramelized Onion Addition: Stir in caramelized onions for a slightly sweet and savory note.
8. Greek-Style Version: Add a touch of feta cheese and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
9. Cheesy Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and bake the dip inside for a unique presentation.
10. Vegan Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded vegan cheese alternatives.

Freezing and Storage for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked dip for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

• Food Processor – For finely chopping artichoke hearts, garlic, or blending ingredients
• .Hand Mixer – To mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, and other creamy ingredients until smooth.Cast Iron Skillet – Perfect for cooking and baking the dip in one dish.
• Ramekins – For individual portions of the dip.
• Oven-Safe Dish – A ceramic or glass dish for baking the dip.
• Microplane Grater – To finely grate Parmesan or other cheeses.
• Mixing Bowls – For preparing and combining ingredients.
• Spatula – For spreading and folding ingredients.
• Immersion Blender – For achieving a smoother dip texture if desired.
• Baking Sheet – To place under the dish to catch any bubbling overflow.

Frequently Asked Questions for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

1. Can I use fresh spinach?
   Yes, cook and chop fresh spinach before adding it to the dip.
2. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.
3. Can I make this dip without cream cheese?
   Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a blend of ricotta and sour cream for a slightly different texture.
4. Can I use canned spinach?
   It’s not recommended as canned spinach tends to be overly watery. Stick to frozen or fresh spinach.
5. How do I prevent the dip from getting too greasy?
   Use quality cheeses and don’t overbake the dip. Avoid adding too much oil.

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Conclusion

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Bursting with the savory flavors of spinach, artichoke, and a rich blend of cheeses, this dip is the ultimate comfort food for any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for game day, holidays, or a cozy night in, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress.

This recipe is as easy to prepare as it is delicious, making it a perfect choice for both last-minute plans and planned events. Serve it with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or fresh veggies for a versatile appetizer everyone will love.

I’d love to see how your Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!