Spinach artichoke dip is a beloved appetizer, cherished for its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor. This classic recipe delivers a perfect blend of tender spinach, tangy artichoke hearts, and a luscious cheese mixture, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection.

Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a casual get-together, or simply craving a comforting snack, this homemade dip is sure to be a hit. It's surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress with its irresistible taste.

Why You'll Love This Spinach Artichoke Dip

This recipe stands out for its balanced flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise creates an incredibly smooth and decadent base, while a generous amount of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses ensures a gooey, cheesy experience. Fresh garlic and a hint of onion powder elevate the savory notes, making every bite a delight. Plus, most ingredients are pantry staples, making this a convenient option for last-minute entertaining.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Creamy Base

Gather 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, and ½ cup of mayonnaise. These three ingredients form the essential rich and tangy foundation of your dip.

The Cheeses

You will need 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. These cheeses provide the perfect melt and savory depth.

The Vegetables

Prepare 10 ounces of frozen chopped spinach and 14 ounces of canned artichoke hearts (packed in water, not oil). Ensure the spinach is thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry, and the artichokes are drained and roughly chopped.

Flavor Enhancers

Have 2 cloves of garlic, minced, ¼ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper ready to season your dip to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Spinach Artichoke Dip

Follow these simple steps to create your irresistible dip:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you haven't already, thoroughly thaw the frozen chopped spinach and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery dip. Drain the canned artichoke hearts and roughly chop them into smaller pieces.

2. Create the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a spoon or a spatula to stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, with no lumps of cream cheese remaining.

3. Add Flavor and Cheeses

To the creamy base, add the minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir these seasonings in thoroughly. Next, fold in the shredded Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

4. Incorporate Spinach and Artichokes

Gently fold in the prepared, squeezed-dry spinach and the chopped artichoke hearts. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and the vegetables are evenly distributed within the cheesy mixture.

5. Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer the entire dip mixture into an 8x8 inch baking dish or a small oven-safe casserole dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly around the edges and the top is lightly golden brown.

6. Serve Warm

Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Allow the dip to rest for a few minutes before serving. This dip is best enjoyed warm. Serve it directly from the baking dish with your favorite dippers.

Tips for the Best Spinach Artichoke Dip

For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to achieve the smoothest base. Don't skip squeezing the water from the spinach; this is key for a thick, creamy dip. You can also experiment with different cheese blends, such as adding a little provolone or Monterey Jack for variety.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Classic choices include tortilla chips, pita bread (toasted or soft), baguette slices, and an assortment of crackers. For a healthier option, serve it with vegetable sticks like carrot sticks, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices. It also makes a fantastic topping for baked potatoes or a spread for sandwiches.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, allow the dip to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through and bubbly again, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick..