If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing, melt-in-your-mouth delight, this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness combined with tender spinach and tangy artichoke hearts baked to bubbly perfection—this dip elevates any gathering from ordinary to unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a warm snack, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every luscious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe is a breeze thanks to its simple yet harmonious ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s lending creaminess, tang, or that irresistible cheesy pull that makes this dip niin unforgettable.
- Frozen chopped spinach (10 oz): Thawed and drained to keep the dip creamy without extra moisture.
- Artichoke hearts (14 oz can): Drained and chopped, these add a wonderful subtle tang and texture.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Provides the rich, smooth base that binds everything together.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds a slight tang and creamy lightness to balance the flavors.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Enhances the dip’s moist texture and richness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that stretchy, cheesy goodness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Brings nutty, umami depth to each mouthful.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dip with savory warmth and aromatic punch.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle spice to round out the taste.
How to Make Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). This ensures it’s hot and ready once your dip mixture is perfect and ready to be baked. While it heats up, make sure your spinach is fully thawed and well drained to prevent any watery dip.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Ingredients
In a large bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until you get a smooth, creamy base. This trio is the heart of your dip, lending a luscious, silky texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters
Mix in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to your creamy base. Garlic wakes up the dip with its aromatic flavor, while the salt and pepper elevate all the ingredients, balancing the overall taste beautifully.
Step 4: Fold in Spinach, Artichokes, and Cheese
Stir in the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts, making sure they are evenly distributed. Then add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, which melt and blend into the dip as it bakes, creating ooey-gooey deliciousness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your combined mixture into a small baking dish, smoothing out the top so it bakes evenly. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbling, and has a lightly golden crust on top—this is where all the flavors intensify and meld together irresistibly.
How to Serve Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Add a finishing touch with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who love a little kick. Freshly chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips, toasted slices of crusty bread, or an assortment of fresh vegetables like baby carrots, celery sticks, and bell pepper strips. These sides add crunch and freshness, creating the perfect balance with the creamy dip.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe inside a hollowed-out bread bowl or bake it in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can even present the dip alongside a colorful veggie platter, turning your appetizer station into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the dip again without any hassle.
Freezing
This dip freezes well, so feel free to prepare it in advance. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that creamy texture intact.
Reheating
To warm leftovers, place them in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through and bubbly, about 15 minutes. You can also microwave smaller portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh spinach, cook it down in a pan until wilted, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using it in the recipe. Doing so keeps the dip from becoming soggy.
What can I add to make the dip spicier?
Adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before baking will add some heat. You can also top with diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to serve it with gluten-free dippers such as veggie sticks or gluten-free crackers if you need to avoid gluten completely.
Can I make this dip vegan?
You can substitute the dairy ingredients with vegan cream cheese, sour cream, and vegan cheese to create a delicious plant-based version, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly from the classic.
How long can I keep the Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe before baking?
You can prepare the dip mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, just bake as directed for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and celebratory about this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe that makes it a timeless favorite. Once you dive into its cheesy, garlicky goodness paired with tender spinach and artichokes, you’ll find it hard to resist making it again and again. So, invite your friends or savor it solo—either way, this dip promises to be a delicious hit at any occasion.
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Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties or cozy nights in. Combining tender spinach and artichokes with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and flavorful cheeses, this baked dip is warm, bubbly, and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts (drained and chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Dairy and Condiments
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready to bake the dip evenly.
- Mix Cream Base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and creamy to create the base of the dip.
- Add Seasonings and Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to flavor the cream base. Then fold in the drained chopped spinach and artichoke hearts, mixing thoroughly to distribute evenly.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses to the mixture. Mix well to combine all ingredients uniformly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a small baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking and presentation.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the dip is hot, bubbly, and has a lightly golden top.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with tortilla chips, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You can prepare this dip ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake for convenience.
- For an extra kick of flavor, stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before baking.
- Consider topping with additional cheese before baking to create a more golden, cheesy crust.
