Easy Artichoke & Spinach Dip for Parties

Artichoke & Spinach Dip

If you’re looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both creamy and bursting with flavor, this Artichoke & Spinach Dip is just what you need. It’s quick to make, perfect for parties, and combines tender artichokes, fresh spinach, and a cheesy blend that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or dressing up a celebratory occasion, this dip brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, making your snack game unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Preparation: This dip comes together quickly with simple steps that anyone can follow, making party prep stress-free.
  • Creamy Texture: The perfect balance of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and melted mozzarella creates a rich and silky bite.
  • Flavor Packed: The combination of tangy artichokes and fresh spinach gives a flavorful punch that keeps guests coming back for more.
  • Versatile Serving: Great with chips, bread, or veggies, this dip suits all tastes and dietary preferences easily.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and simply warm it up right before serving for ultimate convenience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To craft the perfect Artichoke & Spinach Dip, you’ll rely on a handful of fresh and pantry staples, each bringing a unique element to the final dish. The ingredients work harmoniously to provide creaminess, texture, and vibrant color.

  • Artichoke Hearts: Use canned or jarred, chopped finely to add a gentle tang and hearty texture.
  • Fresh Spinach: Provides brightness, color, and a fresh vegetable element—make sure to squeeze out excess moisture.
  • Cream Cheese: The creamy base that blends all ingredients into a luscious smoothness.
  • Mayonnaise: Adds richness and binds the dip while giving it an extra velvety feel.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy experience.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Offers a nutty, savory flavor that enhances the depth of the dip.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced for a burst of aromatic flavor that wakes up the palate.
  • Lemon Juice: Adds a zesty brightness to balance the richness and brighten the whole dish.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together perfectly.

Variations for Artichoke & Spinach Dip

This Artichoke & Spinach Dip is incredibly adaptable, so don’t hesitate to customize it to your preference or dietary needs. Small tweaks can make a big impact, ensuring everyone’s taste buds are delighted.

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delicious hint of heat.
  • Vegan Version: Swap cream cheese and mayo for plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
  • Extra Cheese: Mix in cheddar or pepper jack for an even cheesier variation.
  • Herb Boost: Toss in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill to brighten the flavor profile.
  • Artichoke-Free: For those who prefer, substitute artichokes with roasted zucchini or mushrooms for a unique twist.
Easy Artichoke & Spinach Dip for Parties

How to Make Artichoke & Spinach Dip

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Artichokes

Start by finely chopping the artichoke hearts and thoroughly wilting the fresh spinach in a hot pan or quickly steaming it. Once cooled, squeeze out any excess moisture from the spinach to prevent a watery dip.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy, ensuring the lemon juice is well incorporated for brightness.

Step 3: Add Cheeses and Seasonings

Fold in shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This blend creates a cheesy, flavorful foundation for the dip.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Gently fold in the chopped artichokes and spinach to the cheese mixture. Mix well but carefully to maintain texture and ensure even distribution of ingredients.

Step 5: Bake Until Warm and Bubbly

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Artichoke & Spinach Dip

  • Drain Thoroughly: Make sure to drain and squeeze out water from spinach and artichokes to keep the dip thick and not runny.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Use cream cheese and mayonnaise at room temperature for an easier and smoother mix.
  • Customize Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends to find your perfect gooey texture and flavor.
  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a bright flavor that garlic powder simply can’t match.
  • Keep Warm: If serving for a long time, keep the dip warm in a slow cooker or warming tray to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve Artichoke & Spinach Dip

Garnishes

Finishing the dip with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, extra grated Parmesan, or chili flakes not only adds visual appeal but also layers of flavor to each serving bite.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers like crusty baguette slices, tortilla chips, pita wedges, or even fresh crunchy vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, making it suitable for any party palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the dip in a hollowed-out sourdough loaf or a festive bread bowl to keep it warm and create a charming centerpiece. Small ramekins or individual serving cups are also great for easy grab-and-go portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Artichoke & Spinach Dip in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze this dip in a safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake briefly to restore its creamy texture and flavor.

Reheating

Rewarm the dip in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals stirring in between to maintain even warmth and creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible to avoid making the dip watery.

Is this dip gluten-free?

The dip itself is gluten-free, but double-check your dippers like chips or bread to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Can I make this dip vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute cream cheese and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives and use dairy-free cheeses or nutritional yeast for flavor.

How long does the dip last after baking?

Once baked, it’s best to consume within 2 hours for optional freshness, but leftovers refrigerated within 24 hours are still delicious reheated.

What’s the best way to serve this dip warm?

Keep it in a slow cooker on a low setting or use a warming tray to keep the dip melty and inviting during events.

Final Thoughts

Nothing brings people together like a warm, creamy bowl of Artichoke & Spinach Dip. Whether you’re prepping for a big party or a cozy night with friends, this recipe is a total winner. Give it a try and watch as it quickly becomes your go-to appetizer for gatherings big and small.

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Artichoke & Spinach Dip

This creamy and flavorful Artichoke & Spinach Dip is a quick and easy appetizer perfect for any party or casual gathering. Combining tender artichokes, fresh spinach, and a rich mix of cheeses, this dip offers a warm and satisfying snack that pairs well with chips, bread, or vegetables. Make it ahead for convenience and enjoy a crowd-pleaser that’s versatile and delicious.

  • Author: Barbara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or jarred, chopped finely
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, wilted and squeezed dry

Dairy and Condiments

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Seasonings

  • 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach and Artichokes: Finely chop the artichoke hearts. Wilt fresh spinach in a hot pan or steam briefly, then cool and squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent watery dip.
  2. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and well blended, ensuring the lemon juice is thoroughly incorporated for brightness.
  3. Add Cheeses and Seasonings: Fold in shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper, creating a cheesy and flavorful base.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: Gently fold the chopped artichokes and spinach into the cheese mixture, mixing carefully to maintain texture and even distribution of ingredients.
  5. Bake Until Warm and Bubbly: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Drain and squeeze out water from spinach and artichokes thoroughly to keep the dip thick and prevent it from becoming runny.
  • Use cream cheese and mayonnaise at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
  • Experiment with different cheese blends like cheddar or pepper jack for a cheesier variation.
  • Freshly minced garlic adds a bright, robust flavor that garlic powder can’t replicate.
  • Keep the dip warm in a slow cooker or warming tray during serving to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Artichoke dip, spinach dip, party appetizer, creamy dip, cheesy dip, warm dip, crowd pleaser

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