If you’ve ever dined out at a restaurant and ordered an appetizer, chances are you’ve come across the classic Artichoke and Spinach Dip. This creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish is a favorite among many, and it’s not hard to see why. The combination of tender artichoke hearts, vibrant spinach, and a rich, cheesy sauce is simply irresistible.
Today, we’re bringing the restaurant experience to your home kitchen. With this recipe, you can recreate that creamy, savory goodness right in your own oven. Whether you’re hosting a party, a casual get-together, or just craving some comfort food, this Artichoke and Spinach Dip is the answer.
Ingredients
For this delectable restaurant-style Artichoke and Spinach Dip, you’ll need:
For the Dip:
- 1 (10-ounce) package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (14-ounce) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Sliced baguette, tortilla chips, or vegetable sticks
Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this indulgent dip.
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet over medium heat, add a teaspoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the chopped spinach. Cook for a few minutes until any excess moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
4. Bake
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dip is bubbling around the edges.
5. Serve Warm
Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. It’s best served warm. Arrange slices of baguette, tortilla chips, or a colorful assortment of vegetable sticks around the dip.
Tips for the Perfect Dip
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your dip in the oven. You want it to be bubbly and golden, but avoid overcooking, as this can cause it to become dry.
- Customize: Get creative with your dip by adding ingredients like chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooked bacon bits, or a dash of hot sauce for some extra flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach is convenient, you can also use fresh spinach. Simply blanch and chop it before adding it to the mixture.
Variation: Vegan Spinach and Artichoke Dip
For a vegan twist on this classic, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use vegan mayonnaise, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan mozzarella. The result is a dip that’s just as creamy and flavorful, but entirely plant-based.
In conclusion, this restaurant-style Artichoke and Spinach Dip is a crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for more. It’s perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or simply as a treat for yourself. With its creamy, cheesy goodness, it’s hard to resist.
So, the next time you’re craving that restaurant experience at home, give this recipe a try. It’s easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the cheesy, gooey deliciousness of this classic appetizer!
