If you love a creamy, cheesy, and vibrant appetizer that warms both the heart and the taste buds, you are going to adore this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfectly combining tender spinach, tender artichokes, and a luscious blend of cheeses with the perfect hint of garlic. This recipe is a flawless way to bring people together, whether for game day, parties, or just a cozy snack at home. Once you taste it, this dip will earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the secret to this dip’s irresistible flavor and pleasing texture. Each item brings something important to the mix — from creaminess and tang to a touch of earthiness and crunch.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Provides a rich, smooth base that binds all the flavors beautifully.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess to make every bite luscious.
- Parmesan cheese (¾ cup, grated, divided): Brings a nutty, salty depth that enhances the overall flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts to stretchy perfection, giving that classic gooey dip texture.
- Garlic (3 cloves, finely minced): Infuses the dip with a fragrant, savory punch that wakes up the palate.
- Salt (¾ – 1 teaspoon, to taste): Balances and brightens each ingredient’s flavor.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle spicy note for complexity.
- Sauteed spinach (10 ounces, previously frozen): Offers a tender, vibrant green element loaded with nutrients.
- Artichoke hearts (14 ounces, drained, finely chopped): Provide a delicate, slightly tangy bite and satisfying texture.
- Water chestnuts (8 ounces, drained, finely diced): Give a surprising crunch that contrasts the creamy dip wonderfully.
How to Make Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking the dip to perfection. This temperature allows the dip to cook through evenly while slowly developing that irresistible golden top.
Step 2: Mix the Cheeses and Flavors
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, half of the Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula to mix everything until the texture is silky smooth and all ingredients are evenly incorporated. This step is key for building the creamy, cheesy foundation that makes this dip unforgettable.
Step 3: Drain the Spinach
Properly draining the spinach is crucial to avoid a watery dip. Thaw the previously frozen spinach and squeeze it dry using a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel until no excess moisture remains. This keeps the dip thick and creamy, not soggy.
Step 4: Combine the Remaining Ingredients
Add the well-drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, and diced water chestnuts to your cheese mixture. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly to distribute all these fantastic textures and flavors throughout the dip.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spray a 7 by 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking, then spread the mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top, setting the stage for a delightfully golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake your dip in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start bubbling slightly and the top turns a lovely light golden color. This baking step melds all the flavors together and creates that luscious hot dip experience we’re aiming for.
Step 7: Optional Broil for Extra Color
If you love a crispier top layer, pop your dip under the broiler on high for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, but this little trick adds a gorgeous golden-brown finish that tastes wonderful.
Step 8: Serve Immediately and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe is best enjoyed hot and melty. Serve it right away with your favorite dippers and watch it disappear!
How to Serve Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese enhances the visual appeal and freshens the flavors. A light drizzle of olive oil can also add an elegant touch and deepen the richness.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers like sturdy tortilla chips, crunchy pita chips, toasted baguette slices, or an assortment of cut raw vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumber, and carrots. The contrasting textures make each bite even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, inviting presentation that doubles as an extra dipper. You could also bring it to the table in individual ramekins to make sharing easier and add a touch of elegance to your gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your dip, place any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the dip will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day snacks or quick appetizers.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe on hand for longer, it freezes well. Transfer the cooled dip into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember that the texture may be slightly softer after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen dip overnight in the fridge if applicable, then warm it gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy consistency. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power, heating in short intervals until hot and bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works wonderfully, just be sure to sauté it first until wilted and then squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the dip to prevent sogginess.
Is there a dairy-free version of this dip?
Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese, sour cream, and dairy-free cheeses. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture and flavor but still yield a delicious result.
Can this dip be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the dip mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving. This saves time and lets the flavors meld even more.
What’s the best way to prevent the dip from being watery?
Ensure the spinach and artichokes are well-drained before mixing. Squeezing out extra moisture from the spinach and draining the canned artichokes thoroughly will keep your dip thick and creamy.
Can I add other ingredients to customize the dip?
Definitely! Some people love stirring in cooked bacon, jalapeños for heat, or even sun-dried tomatoes to add different flavor dimensions. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Final Thoughts
This Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings people together and fills a room with warmth and joy. Rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced with fresh and savory ingredients, it’s bound to become your new go-to for any occasion. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed, and your guests will thank you!
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Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining spinach, artichoke hearts, water chestnuts, and a blend of cheeses, it bakes to a golden bubbly perfection that’s delicious when served warm with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Veggies and Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ¾ – 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 10 ounces sautéed spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
- 14 ounces canned artichoke hearts, drained and finely chopped
- 8 ounces canned water chestnuts, drained and finely diced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to get ready for baking the dip.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ½ cup of grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use a spatula to mix everything until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Drain Spinach: Thaw the previously frozen sautéed spinach completely and squeeze out all excess moisture using a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel to avoid a watery dip.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, and diced water chestnuts to the cheese mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 7 x 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the dip mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese on top to give it a cheesy crust.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
- Optional Broil: For a deeper golden and slightly crispy top, place the baked dip under a broiler set to high for 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve the hot spinach artichoke dip immediately with your choice of chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables and enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure to fully drain the spinach and water chestnuts to prevent excess liquid in the dip.
- You can substitute fresh spinach sautéed with garlic for the frozen sautéed spinach if preferred.
- Adjust salt according to your taste, especially if using salted or Parmesan cheese with higher sodium.
- If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- This dip can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving for convenience.
