Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
If you are on the hunt for a creamy, comforting, and endlessly shareable appetizer, this Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe is your new best friend. It perfectly combines tender artichoke hearts and vibrant spinach with rich cheeses and a hint of garlic to create a dip that’s warm, luscious, and utterly irresistible. Whether it’s game day, a cozy gathering, or just a craving for something cheesy and satisfying, this dip promises to deliver that crowd-pleasing wow factor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe shines because of its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each adding a unique layer of flavor and texture. From the tangy artichoke hearts to the melty mozzarella topping, every component plays a crucial role in making this dip shine.
- Artichoke hearts (14 oz can, drained and chopped): They bring a tender, slightly nutty flavor that forms the base of the dip’s character.
- Frozen spinach (10 oz package, thawed and drained): Adds a fresh, grassy element plus vibrant green color that brightens up the dip.
- Cream cheese (1 cup, softened): Provides that irresistible creamy, smooth texture that holds everything together.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Enhances moisture and richness, keeping the dip luxuriously smooth.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Infuses a sharp, salty punch that elevates the flavor complexity.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup plus 1/4 cup for topping): Melts beautifully for that gooey, stringy cheese factor everyone loves.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle, savory warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances all the flavors to their fullest expression.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Provides a mild kick and balances richness with a touch of spice.
How to Make Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for creating a dip that’s bubbling hot with a beautifully golden crust on top by the time it’s ready.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, mix together the drained and chopped artichoke hearts, thawed and well-drained spinach, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly blended into one creamy, cohesive mixture.
Step 3: Transfer and Spread
Spoon the mixture into a 9-inch baking dish or a similarly sized oven-safe dish. Spread it out evenly using a spatula so that every corner has an equal layer of this cheesy goodness. This makes sure it bakes uniformly and each serving gets the perfect bite.
Step 4: Add the Final Mozzarella Topping
Sprinkle the reserved 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This extra layer of cheese will turn into a gorgeous golden crust that is irresistible when warm.
Step 5: Bake Until Hot and Bubbly
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The dip will bubble up as it cooks, and you’ll see the cheese on top turn a lovely golden brown when it’s perfectly done. That’s your signal that it’s ready to come out and be devoured.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, serve this steaming dish immediately with your favorite chips, crackers, or fresh bread for dipping. Watching everyone’s faces light up as they dig in is pure joy.
How to Serve Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes elevates this Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe. Freshly chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a subtle herbal note that freshens the rich flavors. For an extra kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle a little olive oil on top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Crisp pita chips, artisan baguette slices, or crunchy vegetable sticks like celery and carrots complement the creamy texture perfectly. Feeling indulgent? Serve alongside crispy French fries or soft pretzel bites for a fun, casual eating experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests visually? Serve this dip inside a hollowed-out bread bowl for an edible container that’s just as delicious as what’s inside. Alternatively, present it in mini ramekins for individual servings at a party. You can even stuff it into baked potato skins or spread it on toasted crostini for an elegant finger food option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dip will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually meld more after resting, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead snack. After baking and cooling, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly again, usually about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method helps restore that delicious crust on top.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just be sure to sauté the fresh spinach briefly and drain out all excess moisture before mixing it in. This helps prevent a watery dip and keeps the texture perfect.
Is there a dairy-free version of this dip?
Yes! You can substitute cream cheese and mayonnaise with their dairy-free alternatives and use vegan cheeses for the mozzarella and Parmesan. The dip may taste slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
How long will this dip stay warm after baking?
It stays warm and inviting for about 30 to 45 minutes if kept covered or wrapped, making it perfect for gatherings. To keep it warm longer, consider using a small slow cooker or warming tray.
Can I make this dip spicier?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños to the mix before baking to give the dip a spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
What’s the best way to drain spinach and artichokes?
For spinach, after thawing, press it firmly in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much water as possible. For canned artichokes, draining and gently patting dry with paper towels works well to reduce excess moisture.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the comforting hug of a warm, cheesy dip to bring friends and family together. This Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe is a timeless classic that’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to become one of your go-to favorites. So next time you want to impress without stress, whip up this dip and watch it disappear fast. Trust me, your taste buds and your guests will thank you!
Print
Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This creamy and comforting Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip combines tender artichoke hearts, nutrient-packed spinach, and a blend of cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, this dip is flavorful and easy to prepare, served best warm with chips, crackers, or fresh bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the dip evenly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, thawed and drained spinach, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a creamy mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dip to create a golden, cheesy crust.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese topping turns golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and serve immediately with chips, crackers, or fresh bread for dipping. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach and artichoke to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
- You can prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking; just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking from cold.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Use a shallow baking dish to allow the dip to cook evenly and develop a nice cheesy crust on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
