Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip (Printable)
Creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheeses baked until bubbly and golden. Serve warm with toasted baguette.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
02 - 14 oz canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Dairy
04 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup sour cream
06 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
07 - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
08 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
→ Seasonings
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
→ Bread
12 - 1 baguette, sliced
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a medium baking dish measuring 1.5 to 2 quarts.
02 - In a large bowl, blend cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise together until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
03 - Fold spinach, artichoke hearts, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella into the cheese base. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
04 - Pour the prepared mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
05 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the dip bubbles at the edges and the top achieves a light golden color.
06 - While the dip bakes, slice the baguette and lightly toast the slices if desired.
07 - Transfer the warm dip to a serving vessel and accompany with toasted baguette slices for dipping.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The contrast between the crispy golden top and the creamy interior creates this little moment of bliss that has converted even my most vegetable-averse friends.
- You can prep it ahead when hosting and just pop it in the oven when guests arrive, which means you actually get to enjoy your own party instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
02 -
- Never skip squeezing the moisture from spinach, a step I once thought was exaggerated until I served what was essentially spinach soup with cheese.
- Let the dip rest for 5 minutes after baking, which allows it to set slightly and prevents burned mouths, a lesson learned when my impatient brother dove in too quickly.
03 -
- If your dip seems too thick before baking, add a tablespoon or two of milk to achieve that perfect, scoopable consistency.
- Create a more dramatic presentation by baking in a hollowed-out round of sourdough bread, which becomes part of the appetizer itself.