Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe

This Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe is rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s the kind of warm appetizer that disappears fast at parties, game nights, and family gatherings. With tender spinach, hearty artichokes, and a smooth blend of cheeses, this dip delivers classic comfort food flavor with very little effort.

Whether you’re serving it with tortilla chips, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables, spinach and artichoke dip always feels special. It’s warm, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying yet surprisingly easy to make at home.

If you love easy party appetizers like Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers or Sheet Pan Sausage Cranberry Bites, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

What Is Spinach and Artichoke Dip?

Spinach and artichoke dip is a hot, creamy appetizer made with cooked spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and melted cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s baked until bubbly and golden on top, creating a thick, scoopable dip with a rich, savory flavor.

This dish became popular in restaurants because it’s:

• Comforting and familiar
• Easy to share
• Rich without being complicated
• Perfect for dipping

At home, it’s even better because you can control the ingredients and texture.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

This version balances creaminess and flavor without being overly heavy.

• Cream cheese creates a smooth base
• Mozzarella adds stretch and melt
• Parmesan adds sharp, salty flavor
• Spinach and artichokes add texture and balance

The result is a dip that’s creamy but not greasy, cheesy but not overwhelming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients (with measurements)

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  Creates the creamy base of the dip.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  Adds melt and stretch.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  Brings sharp, savory flavor.
• 1 cup cooked spinach, well drained
  Fresh or frozen both work.
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
  Use artichokes packed in water, not oil.
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  Adds tang and smooth texture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Boosts flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt
  Adjust to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add Ins

• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Extra mozzarella for topping
• Chopped green onions
• Cream instead of sour cream for richer dip

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Spinach:
Frozen spinach works great. Thaw completely and squeeze out excess liquid. Fresh spinach should be sautéed first.

Artichokes:
Use canned or jarred artichokes in water. Drain and chop finely for even texture.

Cheese:
Mozzarella is classic, but Monterey Jack or fontina also work well.

Greek Yogurt:
Use full fat Greek yogurt for a lighter version with the same creaminess.

How to Make Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes to bake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a small baking dish or skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach

If using frozen spinach:

• Thaw completely
• Squeeze out all excess liquid

If using fresh spinach:

• Sauté until wilted
• Let cool and chop finely

Removing moisture is key to a thick, creamy dip.

Step 3: Mix the Dip Base

In a large bowl, combine:

• Cream cheese
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Garlic
• Salt and black pepper

Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Add Spinach, Artichokes, and Cheese

Stir in:

• Chopped spinach
• Chopped artichokes
• Mozzarella
• Parmesan

Mix until evenly combined.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Transfer mixture to prepared dish.
Smooth the top and sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.

Bake for 22–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly with lightly golden edges.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm with your favorite dippers.

Texture and Flavor

• Texture: Thick, creamy, scoopable
• Flavor: Savory, cheesy, slightly tangy
• Finish: Rich but balanced

Every bite has a mix of cheese, spinach, and artichoke no dry spots or watery texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Spinach and Artichoke Dip

• Drain spinach extremely well
• Soften cream cheese before mixing
• Chop artichokes finely
• Don’t overbake
• Serve warm

These small steps make a big difference in final texture.

Flavor Variations

Extra Cheesy Dip

Add ½ cup extra mozzarella on top before baking.

Spicy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Garlic Lover’s Version

Roast the garlic before mixing it in.

Protein Boost

Add chopped cooked chicken for a heartier dip.

What to Serve With Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Classic Dippers

• Tortilla chips
• Pita chips
• Toasted baguette slices

Lighter Options

• Carrot sticks
• Celery
• Bell pepper strips

Creative Ideas

• Use as sandwich spread
• Spoon over baked potatoes
• Serve with flatbread

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead

You can assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance.
Cover and refrigerate unbaked, then bake before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in oven at 350°F until warm.
Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 280–320
• Fat: 22–25g
• Protein: 8–10g
• Carbohydrates: 6–8g

Values vary based on cheese and dairy choices.

Common Problems & How to Fix Them

Dip is watery:
Spinach wasn’t drained enough.

Too thick:
Stir in 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream.

Greasy texture:
Use balanced cheese amounts and avoid overbaking.

Bland flavor:
Add more garlic, salt, or Parmesan.

FAQs About Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Can I make this dip without baking?

Yes. Heat gently on the stovetop until melted and smooth.

Can I use frozen artichokes?

Canned artichokes work best. Frozen can release extra moisture.

Is this dip gluten free?

Yes, the dip itself is gluten free.

Can I make it lighter?

Use Greek yogurt and reduced fat cheese.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a larger baking dish and add a few extra minutes of bake time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients
• Classic restaurant-style flavor
• Easy to customize
• Perfect for parties
• Always a crowd pleaser

It’s a reliable recipe that works every time.

Conclusion

This Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for parties, holidays, or casual get togethers, it delivers rich flavor with minimal prep. Serve it warm, watch it disappear, and be ready to share the recipe.
If you’re building a collection of go to appetizers, save this Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe to your Pinterest board. It’s perfect for parties, holidays, and easy entertaining.