If you’ve been searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe. This creamy, cheesy delight is packed with tender spinach and tangy artichoke hearts, all baked to bubbling perfection. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a comforting snack, this dip combines simple ingredients into a warm, savory hug that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in flavor and texture. From creamy cheese blends to perfectly balanced seasonings, every element contributes to that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Frozen chopped spinach (10 oz): Make sure it’s well thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your dip.
- Artichoke hearts (14 oz can): Drained and chopped for tender, slightly tangy bites throughout.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The rich and creamy base that gives the dip its luscious texture.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a gentle tang and smoothness to balance the richness.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Contributes to the creamy consistency with a subtle depth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully, bringing gooey stretchiness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Offers a salty, nutty kick that finishes the flavor perfectly.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic elevates the dip with savory warmth.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of spice and depth.
How to Make Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Mix the Creamy Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it will be at the perfect temperature once your dip is ready to bake. Meanwhile, grab a large bowl and whisk together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until it transforms into a smooth, creamy blend. This combination is key to the silky and rich texture you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Fold in the minced garlic along with salt and black pepper. The garlic infuses the dip with that signature savory bite, while the seasonings awaken all the flavors without overwhelming them. Give it a gentle stir to spread everything evenly.
Step 3: Incorporate Spinach, Artichokes, and Cheeses
Now, toss in your well-drained chopped spinach and artichoke hearts. Next, sprinkle in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix gently but thoroughly—you want every spoonful of dip to have that wonderful combination of tender greens, tangy artichokes, and cheesy richness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the dip is hot and bubbly with a lightly golden top. For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit more Parmesan cheese on top before baking to elevate that beautiful crust.
How to Serve Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few fresh chopped parsley leaves brightens up the presentation and flavor. For a bit of heat, red pepper flakes offer a subtle kick that complements the creaminess wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Serve your Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe alongside crunchy tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots. These options add texture and balance to the creamy, cheesy dip.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the bowl? Try filling hollowed-out bread bowls, stuffing into small bell peppers, or layering it over baked potatoes for a fun twist. It’s a versatile dip that invites creativity and makes entertaining a breeze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any dip left (which is rare!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, making it taste even better.
Freezing
This Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe freezes well. Portion it into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals stirring in between. Avoid overheating to maintain the dip’s creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just sauté about 6 cups of fresh spinach until wilted, then drain any excess moisture before mixing it into the dip.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The recipe itself is gluten-free, but be sure to serve it with gluten-free chips or veggies if you’re catering to gluten-sensitive friends.
Can I make this dip vegan?
For a vegan twist, substitute the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise with plant-based versions and use vegan cheeses. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
How spicy is this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe?
The base recipe is mild and creamy, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste if you want some heat.
What’s the best type of baking dish to use?
A ceramic or glass baking dish around 8×8 inches works perfectly, allowing even heat distribution and easy serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like pulling a warm, gooey Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe fresh from the oven to bring people together. It’s cozy, comforting, and deliciously cheesy with just the right balance of spinach and artichokes. Trust me, once you try it, this dip will be your go-to appetizer for every occasion. So gather your favorite snacks, heat it up, and enjoy every luscious bite!
Print
Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, cheesy Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip made with chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a crowd-pleasing appetizer ideal for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 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
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the dip evenly.
- Mix Creamy Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous with no lumps.
- Add Seasonings and Veggies: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Then fold in the drained and chopped spinach and artichoke hearts, mixing well to distribute evenly.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses to the mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the dip mixture evenly into a baking dish, smoothing the top for uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve warm with tortilla chips, slices of bread, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- Add red pepper flakes to the mixture to introduce a spicy kick.
- To lighten the dip, substitute Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
