Spinach Artichoke Dip

The first time I made this dip, my friend Sarah actually licked the baking dish clean when she thought no one was watching. We'd been experimenting with appetizer recipes for her housewarming party, and something about the combination of bubbling cheese and tender artichokes had everyone crowded around the oven. Now it's the most requested dish at every gathering, and I've learned to always make a double batch.

Last winter during a snowed-in weekend, my roommate and I made three batches in two days because we couldn't stop eating it straight from the dish with whatever crackers we had in the pantry. The way the aroma fills the kitchen when it's baking is enough to make your stomach growl from the other room.

Ingredients

• Fresh spinach: I prefer fresh and chop it myself, but frozen works in a pinch just squeeze out every drop of water first
• Artichoke hearts: Canned ones are perfectly fine here, just make sure they're well drained so your dip isn't watery
• Cream cheese: Let it sit out for an hour so it blends smoothly without leaving lumps
• Sour cream: Adds that tangy creaminess that balances the rich cheeses
• Mayonnaise: Sounds odd but it makes the texture incredibly velvety
• Mozzarella: The real workhorse cheese that creates those gorgeous cheese pulls
• Parmesan: Brings a salty depth that keeps this from being too one-note
• Garlic: Don't be shy with it, it mellows beautifully when baked

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 375F and move your oven rack to the upper middle position so the top gets perfectly golden

Make the creamy base:

Beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise together until you can't see any white lumps

Add everything else:

Fold in the spinach, artichokes, garlic, both cheeses, and seasonings until evenly distributed

Spread it out:

Transfer to your baking dish and use the back of a spoon to create some texture on top for extra crispy bits

Bake until bubbly:

Let it go for 20 to 25 minutes until you see golden brown spots and the edges are bubbling enthusiastically

The hardest part:

Let it rest for 5 minutes or you'll burn your tongue, which I may have done more than once

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My sister discovered this dip tastes even better the next day, warmed up and eaten for breakfast with tortilla chips. There's something about the flavors melding overnight that makes it even more irresistible.

Make It Your Own

Sometimes I throw in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of fresh basil at the end. A little kick of heat from some jalapeños never hurt anyone either, especially if you're serving a crowd who likes things spicy.

Serving Suggestions That Work

I've learned that sturdy dippers work best because this dip is thick and generous. Thin chips will snap under the weight, leaving your guests fishing broken pieces out with their fingers.

Storage And Reheating

This keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days and reheats like a dream. The texture actually gets better after resting, so don't stress about making it too far ahead.

• Cover tightly with foil before refrigerating to prevent the cheese from drying out
• Reheat at 350F for about 15 minutes until hot and bubbly throughout
• Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese on top when reheating to refresh the crust

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Hope this brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine over the years. There's nothing quite like watching friends gather around a warm dish of something delicious.

Recipe FAQs

→ What are the best ingredients for a creamy texture?

Using cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise provides a rich, smooth base, complemented by shredded mozzarella and Parmesan for melt and flavor.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well if thawed and drained to avoid extra moisture that could affect the final texture.

→ How long should I bake the dish for optimal results?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden for a perfect finish.

→ Are there ways to add brightness or extra flavor?

A squeeze of lemon juice added before serving lifts the flavors, and crushed red pepper flakes offer optional heat.

→ What to serve alongside this warm dip?

Toast bread, crackers, or tortilla chips pair wonderfully, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy mixture.