Side Dishes > Vegetarian Side Dishes > More Complex Vegetarian Sides > Spinach and Artichoke Dip (Side)
Ultimate Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Indulge in this incredibly rich and flavorful spinach and artichoke dip, perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in. This recipe combines creamy cheeses, tender artichoke hearts, and fresh spinach for an unforgettable appetizer. Serve with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients
- 10 oz Frozen Spinach
- 14 oz Artichoke Hearts
- 8 oz Cream Cheese
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Sour Cream
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1/2 cup Grated Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Prepare the Spinach and Artichokes
Thaw the frozen spinach completely. Squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery dip. Roughly chop the spinach. Drain the artichoke hearts and chop them into smaller pieces.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, Mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Add Spinach and Artichokes
Add the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the cheese mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Bake the Dip
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip to a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with crusty bread, tortilla chips, crackers, or your favorite raw vegetables. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley, if desired.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This provides a general guideline.
Calories: ~200kcal, Protein: ~7g, Fat: ~16g, Carbohydrates: ~7g
Other Considerations for Nutrition
This dip is relatively high in fat due to the cheese and mayonnaise. To reduce fat content, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese, light mayonnaise, and a smaller amount of mozzarella cheese. You can also add more spinach to increase the nutrient density.
FAQ
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Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through. -
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach. You'll need about 1 pound of fresh spinach. Sauté it until wilted, then chop and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the dip. -
Can I add other cheeses to the dip?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. -
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through and bubbly. Stir occasionally.