Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Spinach artichoke dip is a staple in my kitchen because it’s always a crowd-pleaser and comes together with pantry basics. I’ve made it for everything from casual game nights to holiday gatherings, and it never fails to disappear fast. The creamy, cheesy texture and savory aroma make it irresistible straight from the oven.
What I love most is how forgiving and adaptable this dip is—you can use fresh or frozen spinach, and canned or jarred artichokes. I usually serve it hot with slices of toasted baguette, crackers, or crunchy vegetables. The golden, bubbling top and soft, scoopable center make it perfect for sharing.
The mix of garlic, tangy artichokes, and a blend of cheeses creates a balanced flavor that’s rich but not overwhelming. It’s one of those dishes that feels comforting and familiar, but always gets compliments. I keep it in my rotation for any occasion that calls for easy, satisfying snacks.
Quick Facts
| Servings | 8 |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Why You’ll Love It
This spinach artichoke dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a reliable favorite for gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s simple to prepare and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. The warm, melty texture and savory aroma are always a hit.
- Easy to make with pantry staples
- Great for parties or snacks
- Customizable with different cheeses
- Works with fresh or frozen spinach
- Delicious warm, straight from the oven
Ingredients
The ingredient list for this dip is straightforward and flexible. You’ll need a mix of cheeses, spinach, artichokes, and a few flavor boosters. Most items are pantry or fridge staples, and substitutions are easy if needed.
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
- 4 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
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
This dip comes together in just a few steps. Mix everything in one bowl, transfer to a baking dish, and bake until golden and bubbly. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for company.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Fold in the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish (about 1 quart). Spread evenly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the dip is bubbling around the edges.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with bread, crackers, or vegetables.
Chef Tips
A few simple tips will help you get the best results every time. This dip is forgiving, but these pointers make it even easier and tastier.
- Squeeze spinach very dry to avoid watery dip.
- Let cream cheese soften for easier mixing.
- Top with extra cheese for a golden crust.
- Use a shallow dish for more browning.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
Substitutions
This recipe is flexible, so you can swap ingredients based on what you have. Here are some easy substitutions to try if you’re missing something or want to change up the flavors.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or fontina.
- Try fresh spinach, sautéed and chopped, in place of frozen.
- Use marinated artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
- Replace mayonnaise with more sour cream for a lighter dip.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dip stores well and reheats easily. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty for later snacking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 10–15 minutes.
- Microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts until warmed through.
- Stir before reheating to redistribute moisture.
- Not recommended for freezing—texture may change.
Perfect Pairings
This dip is versatile and pairs well with a range of snacks and drinks. Here are a few serving ideas to round out your spread.
- Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Toasted baguette slices or pita chips
- Fresh vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, bell pepper)
- Grilled chicken skewers as a hearty side
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about making and serving spinach artichoke dip. These tips should help you get great results every time.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dip up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I use fresh spinach?
Absolutely. Sauté 10 oz fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and squeeze out excess moisture.
Is it gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free, but check your dippers if serving with bread or crackers.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Increase baking time as needed.
How do I keep the dip warm for a party?
Transfer to a slow cooker on the ‘warm’ setting or use a warming tray.
Nutritional Note
Nutritional values will vary, but a typical serving is rich in protein and calcium from the cheese and provides fiber from spinach and artichokes. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced spread.