Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip: The Ultimate Party Pleaser

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped spinach, either fresh or thawed from frozen
• 1 14 oz can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
• Chips, toasted bread, or vegetables for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Add the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses to the mixture, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. While the dip is baking, prepare your preferred dippers, such as chips, toasted bread, or cut vegetables.
7. Once the dip is done, allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving it warm with your choice of sides.

Tips

• For an extra-creamy dip, you can mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese.
• If using fresh spinach, be sure to wilt it down and squeeze out any excess moisture before chopping.
• Play around with cheese varieties for different flavors; try using an Italian cheese blend or adding a bit of sharp cheddar.
• To make this dish lighter, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use a reduced-fat mayonnaise.
• For a gluten-free alternative, use chopped nuts or seeds as dippers instead of bread.
• Make ahead by assembling the dip without baking, cover it with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake right before you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Whether you’re hosting a casual game day, a fancy cocktail party, or just looking for a satisfying snack, this spinach and artichoke dip is versatile enough to fit the occasion. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers, and it’s also a delicious addition to a meal when spread over grilled chicken or mixed into pasta. Let your creativity run wild and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic favorite.