Best spinach artichoke dip

Nothing brings people together quite like a warm, creamy spinach artichoke dip. Whether it’s a game day, holiday gathering, or simple weeknight snack, this dip has earned its place as a classic favorite. Packed with tender spinach, flavorful artichokes, and a gooey mix of cheeses, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Best of all, making it at home allows you to control every layer of flavor—from the garlicky kick to the cheesy richness—without relying on store-bought shortcuts.

SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP

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• Author: Thomas G
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 6–8 1x

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Description

This best spinach artichoke dip is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual snacks, it combines tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and melty cheeses for a warm, irresistible appetizer.

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Ingredients

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• 10 oz fresh spinach, chopped
• 14 oz artichoke hearts (canned or jarred, drained & chopped)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing spinach)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Red pepper flakes
• Chopped green onions
• Crumbled cooked turkey bacon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté fresh spinach in olive oil or butter until wilted; drain if using frozen spinach.
3. Chop and drain artichoke hearts. Combine with sautéed spinach.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
5. Fold in ¾ of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Mix in the spinach and artichoke mixture until evenly combined.
7. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dippers.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

This version of best spinach artichoke dip balances creamy textures and bold flavors while keeping the recipe approachable and beginner-friendly. In less than an hour, you can whip up a warm, cheesy dip that tastes indulgent, yet is made from simple ingredients likely already in your pantry.

Ingredients for the Best Spinach Artichoke Dip

Optional Add-Ins

• Red pepper flakes for mild heat
• Chopped green onions for extra freshness
• Crumbled cooked turkey bacon for a smoky twist

How to Make the Best Spinach Artichoke Dip

Making the best spinach artichoke dip is easier than it looks. With the right steps, your dip will be creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced every time. Here’s a step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach and Artichokes

1. If using fresh spinach, rinse, chop, and sauté it in 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter for 2–3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water.
2. Chop the artichoke hearts into small pieces. Drain them well to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
3. Combine the spinach and artichokes in a large bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

1. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in minced garlic, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
3. Gradually add ¾ of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the mixture, reserving the rest for topping.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

1. Fold the sautéed spinach and chopped artichokes into the creamy cheese mixture.
2. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should be thick but scoopable.

Step 4: Bake the Dip

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish (8×8 inch works well).
3. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the dip is heated through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the dip cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Serve warm with your favorite dippers such as tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
3. Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for a restaurant-style presentation.

Tips for Perfect Creaminess

• Squeeze excess water from spinach thoroughly to prevent a watery dip.
• Use room-temperature cream cheese to make mixing smoother.
• Reserve some cheese for the topping to get a golden crust.

Variations of Spinach Artichoke Dip

While the classic spinach artichoke dip is a crowd favorite, there are plenty of ways to customize it for different tastes, occasions, and dietary preferences.

Hot Baked vs. Cold Served Dips

Hot Baked Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Baked until golden and bubbly, this version is rich, creamy, and perfect for dipping with warm bread, chips, or veggies.
• The cheese melts fully, creating a gooey texture that everyone loves.
• Ideal for parties, game days, or cozy nights at home.

Cold or Chilled Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Served cold or slightly chilled, this variation is lighter and refreshing.
• Often paired with crisp crackers, fresh veggies, or pita chips.
• Great for picnic-style gatherings or hot summer days when a warm dip might be too heavy.

Add-Ins for Flavor Twists

Smoky or Savory Additions

• Cooked turkey bacon or chicken bacon: Adds a smoky, savory touch without pork.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: Provide tangy sweetness and extra color.
• Caramelized onions: Introduce a subtle, rich depth to the dip.

Spicy or Bold Variations

• Red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños: Give a gentle heat kick.
• Smoked paprika: Adds warmth and a hint of smokiness.

Cheese Variations

• Swap mozzarella with fontina, gruyere, or gouda for a richer, nutty flavor.
• Use vegan cheese alternatives to make a dairy-free version that’s just as creamy.

Diet-Friendly Options

• Low-fat version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheeses.
• Gluten-free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or toasted gluten-free bread slices.
• Keto-friendly: Skip the breadcrumbs and pair with fresh veggies or low-carb chips.

Serving, Storage, and Make-Ahead Tips

A delicious spinach artichoke dip is only half the battle—serving it right and storing leftovers properly ensures every bite stays fresh, creamy, and flavorful.

Best Dippers for Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Tortilla chips or pita chips: Crunchy and sturdy, perfect for scooping.
• Toasted baguette slices: Adds a warm, crisp texture that complements the creamy dip.
• Fresh vegetables: Carrot sticks, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber slices offer a lighter, refreshing contrast.
• Crackers: Simple and classic; works well for parties and appetizers.

How to Store Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
• Freezer: Place the cooled dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly to maintain creaminess.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prepare the filling ahead: Mix the spinach, artichokes, and creamy base a day in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.
• Top with cheese later: For the best golden topping, add the reserved cheese just before baking.
• Mini portions: Use ramekins or muffin tins to make individual servings for parties or snacks. This also makes reheating faster and easier.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Artichoke Dip

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen spinach works well. Just thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before mixing to avoid a watery dip. Fresh spinach gives a slightly brighter flavor and firmer texture.

Can I make spinach artichoke dip ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Add the reserved cheese on top just before baking to get a golden, bubbly finish

How can I make it dairy-free or vegan?

Use vegan cream cheese, vegan sour cream, and plant-based cheese alternatives. Ensure your cooking method avoids butter if desired, or swap with olive oil. The dip will stay creamy and flavorful.

Can I freeze spinach artichoke dip?

Yes. Store cooled dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven. It may need extra stirring to restore creaminess.

What can I use for dipping besides chips?

Fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber slices are great. Toasted baguette slices, crackers, or pita chips also work perfectly.

How can I make the dip spicier or more flavorful?

Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or smoked paprika. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

Conclusion

The best spinach artichoke dip is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether served warm and bubbly from the oven or chilled for a lighter bite, this dip is versatile and sure to impress family and friends.

Now that you have all the steps, tips, and variations, you’re ready to serve the perfect, crowd-pleasing spinach artichoke dip anytime.