Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe

Hey there! Let’s talk appetizers. This Spinach and Artichoke Dip? It’s not just a party classic; it’s THE dip that always disappears first at gatherings. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-savory, it’s the kind of dish that’ll make you the VIP of every potluck or cozy night in. Plus, it’s baked to bubbly perfection—what’s not to love?

If you’re craving something rich, gooey, and packed with flavor, this dip has your name all over it!

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make—perfect for last-minute guests.
• Uses simple, everyday ingredients you might already have on hand.
• Versatile and customizable for different tastes or dietary needs.
• Baked to indulgent, bubbly, golden perfection.

### Ingredients Breakdown

Essentials

• Spinach: Fresh or frozen works. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water to avoid a watery dip.
• Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred artichoke hearts are perfect. Just drain them and chop roughly.
• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat for that silky texture. Allow it to soften for easier mixing.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Parmesan: Freshly grated for the best flavor boost.
• Mozzarella: Melty and magical—this is your stretchy cheese moment.
• Garlic: Freshly minced for an aromatic kick.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust these to taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a fun, optional kick too!

Pro Tips

– Fresh spinach? Sauté it with a tiny bit of oil until wilted, then chop it up. It’s an extra step, but worth it for that fresh flavor.
– Soften cream cheese quickly by microwaving it for 10-15 seconds. No one has time to wait!

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, half of the Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until smooth.
3. Fold in the spinach and chopped artichokes. Add salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Smooth the surface and sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving—we know it’s hard to wait!

### Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• For a crispier top, broil the dip for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking—watch closely to avoid burning!
• Serve with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or crunchy veggie sticks like celery and carrot for balance.
• If prepping ahead, mix everything up and refrigerate uncooked. Just bake it when your guests arrive!

### Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

Mix it up: Add crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor, swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack, or throw in some sautéed mushrooms.

Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light cream cheese for a slightly healthier version.

For a crowd: Double the recipe and use a larger dish. Trust me, there won’t be leftovers.

### FAQs

Can I freeze this dip?

Yes! Prepare the dip up to the baking step, then freeze it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

How long will leftovers last?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese alternatives. Opt for nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.

If you try this Spinach and Artichoke Dip, I’d love to hear about it! Share your creations in the comments below or tag me on social media with #TheKitchensAid. Your kitchen adventures always make my day!