Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip (Print version)
A delightful blend of spinach, artichokes, and creamy cheeses, baked until bubbling. Ideal for parties or a comforting snack.
# What you'll need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
02 - 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
→ Dairy
03 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
04 - 1 cup sour cream
05 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
06 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
07 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Aromatics & Seasonings
08 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
# How to make it:
01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F.
02 - In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until the mixture is completely smooth and homogeneous.
03 - Gently fold in the well-drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes until all components are uniformly distributed.
04 - Carefully transfer the prepared dip mixture into a 1-quart baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
05 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is visibly hot, actively bubbling, and the surface achieves a delicate golden-brown hue.
06 - Allow the baked dip to rest for 5 minutes post-oven. Serve warm with an assortment of dippers such as crisp tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh crudités.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- It's ridiculously easy to throw together, yet tastes like you fussed for hours.
- The blend of tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and rich cheeses is pure comfort food magic that everyone adores.
02 -
- Over-draining the spinach is crucial; otherwise, your dip becomes a watery disappointment instead of a creamy dream.
- Using softened cream cheese truly makes a difference in achieving that smooth, lump-free base, a lesson I learned after wrestling with cold blocks one too many times.
03 -
- For an even richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mix before baking.
- If you find your dip getting too thick while baking, a tiny splash of milk or even vegetable broth can help loosen it up without sacrificing flavor.