Name: Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, chopped; 6 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

This Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Imagine a warm, bubbly dish filled with tender artichoke hearts, vibrant spinach, and a blend of rich cheeses, all coming together in a harmonious symphony of flavors. This dip is not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, making it a must-have for your next party or casual get-together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can create a dip that’s both delicious and impressive, making it ideal for both planned parties and spontaneous gatherings.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise creates a luxuriously creamy base, while the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add depth and complexity.
Flavorful and Hearty: The tender artichoke hearts and vibrant spinach provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making each bite satisfying and memorable.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dip is universally loved, making it a reliable choice for any occasion, from casual game nights to festive holiday parties.

Ingredients

Cream Cheese (softened): Provides a creamy base and rich texture. Softening ensures smooth blending.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess, enhancing the overall flavor.
Mayonnaise: Contributes richness and moisture, creating a smooth and cohesive dip.
Minced Garlic: Imparts a pungent, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey and cheesy texture.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and enhances the cheesy richness.
Chopped Artichoke Hearts (canned): Provides a tender, slightly tangy bite and a unique texture.
Thawed Frozen Spinach: Adds vibrant color, nutrients, and a subtle earthy flavor.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Combine Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until thoroughly incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy base. Then, add the minced garlic, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, and thawed spinach.

Step 2: Prepare for Baking

Spread the mixture evenly into a 1-quart baking dish. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dip.

Step 3: Bake

Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it is heated throughout and bubbly. The top should be golden brown, and the cheeses should be melted and gooey.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the hot spinach artichoke dip warm with sliced baguette or crackers for dipping.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyere, for a unique twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Fresh Spinach: If using fresh spinach, sauté it with a little garlic and olive oil before adding it to the dip.
Artichoke Preparation: Ensure the artichoke hearts are well-drained and chopped to prevent excess moisture in the dip.

How to Serve

Sliced Baguette: Toast baguette slices for a crispy dipping option.
Crackers: Serve with sturdy crackers that can hold the weight of the dip.
Vegetable Sticks: Offer carrot sticks, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips for a lighter, healthier option.
Pita Chips: Serve with pita chips for a crunchy and flavorful dipping experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover spinach artichoke dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the dip in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends to customize the flavor.

3. Can I freeze this dip?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing due to the dairy content.

4. Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook this dip in a slow cooker on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.