Save A creamy, cheesy dip loaded with tender spinach and artichoke hearts, perfect for serving warm with bread or crackers as a comforting appetizer.
This dip has been a family favorite for years and always disappears quickly at gatherings.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: 225 g (8 oz), softened
- Sour cream: 120 g (1/2 cup)
- Mayonnaise: 60 g (1/4 cup)
- Mozzarella cheese: 100 g (1 cup), grated
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g (1/2 cup), grated
- Frozen chopped spinach: 200 g (7 oz), thawed and well-drained
- Artichoke hearts: 1 can (400 g/14 oz), drained and coarsely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a small baking dish (about 1 litre/1 quart capacity).
- Mix base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add cheeses and vegetables:
- Stir in mozzarella, 30 g (1/4 cup) of the Parmesan, spinach, artichoke hearts, and minced garlic. Mix well.
- Season:
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Transfer to dish:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and golden on top.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with sliced baguette, tortilla chips, or crackers.
Save Our family enjoys this dip during holiday gatherings where everyone eagerly reaches for seconds.
Notes
For extra flavor, add 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or a squeeze of lemon juice. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version. This dip can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, electric mixer or sturdy spoon, baking dish (1 litre/1 quart), oven
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise). Contains eggs (mayonnaise). Gluten may be present if serving with bread or crackers. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save
This warm spinach and artichoke dip is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any event.
Common Questions
- → How do you ensure the spinach doesn’t make the dish watery?
Thaw the spinach fully and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing to maintain a creamy texture without excess water.
- → Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Yes, but fresh artichokes require steaming and chopping before adding; canned hearts offer convenience with similar flavor.
- → What cheeses work best in this dish?
A combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides a creamy, melty, and slightly sharp flavor profile.
- → How can I add a spicy kick to the dish?
Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture or sprinkle on top before baking for gentle heat.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble the mixture ahead and refrigerate; bake just before serving to maintain freshness and warm serving temperature.