Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

My friend Sarah brought this dip to a Super Bowl party years ago, and I literally hovered over the bowl the entire night. The way the cheese pulls apart when you scoop it up still makes my stomach growl just thinking about it.

Last winter I made three batches for my book club because the first two vanished before people even sat down. Now they ask if Im bringing it before they even RSVP.

Ingredients

• Canned artichoke hearts: Drained well and chopped into bite-sized pieces so every scoop gets that distinctive tangy flavor
• Fresh spinach: Roughly chopped and wilted down first to remove excess moisture that could make the dip watery
• Garlic: Minced fresh because the aromatic kick it provides when sautéed first is irreplaceable
• Cream cheese: Absolutely essential to soften first so it blends smoothly into the creamy base without lumps
• Sour cream: Adds that tangy finish that cuts through the richness of all the cheese
• Mayonnaise: The secret ingredient my friends grandmother swore by for the silkiest texture
• Shredded mozzarella: Creates those gorgeous cheese pulls everyone fights over
• Grated Parmesan: Brings a salty sharpness that rounds out the milder cheeses
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that let the vegetables really shine
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but adds just enough subtle warmth to keep people coming back
• Tortilla chips: Sturdy enough to scoop up generous portions without breaking

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Get it to 375°F so its ready when you are, and grease your baking dish now to save yourself trouble later

Sauté the aromatics:

Cook the minced garlic for just one minute until it smells amazing, then add the spinach and wilt it down completely

Make the creamy base:

Beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, and Parmesan until absolutely smooth

Combine everything:

Fold in the chopped artichokes and cooked spinach gently, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like

Transfer and smooth:

Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish and create a flat surface for even browning

Bake until bubbly:

Let it go for 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns golden brown and you see it bubbling around the edges

Serve immediately:

Bring it to the table hot with your chips arranged around the bowl for easy reaching

Save

My roommate stole the leftover container from the fridge the next morning and ate it cold for breakfast. She said she didnt even feel bad about it.

Make It Your Own

My sister adds chopped sun-dried tomatoes whenever she makes this, and the sweet chewy pieces somehow make it even more addictive. Ive tried it with cooked bacon bits too, and honestly nobody complained.

Lighter Options

When Im feeling virtuous I swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use low-fat cream cheese. The texture is slightly different but it still satisfies that craving.

Perfect Pairings

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness beautifully. I also like setting out sliced baguette and raw vegetables for people who want something different than chips.

• Make extra because people will ask for the recipe
• Keep it warm in a slow cooker on low if serving over hours
• Serve within 30 minutes of baking for the best texture

Save

Hope this becomes your go-to party dip too. It never fails to make people happy.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use frozen spinach for this dip?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used after it has been thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture affecting the dip’s texture.

→ What is the best way to get a golden top on the dip?

Bake the dip in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until the surface is bubbly and lightly browned.

→ Are there alternative chips to serve with this dip?

Tortilla chips and pita chips work well, but vegetable sticks or toasted baguette slices can also be great for dipping.

→ How can I add extra flavor to the dip?

Consider folding in sun-dried tomatoes or crispy bacon bits before baking for added taste and texture.

→ Is this dip suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this version contains no meat and is suitable for a vegetarian diet, though it does include several dairy products.