Hot & Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip | Appetizer Recipe

Looking for the ultimate party appetizer? This easy spinach artichoke dip is hot, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Baked to bubbly perfection in just 25 minutes, this classic dip is always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting game day, a holiday gathering, or just craving something warm and comforting, this creamy spinach artichoke dip is the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love Spinach Artichoke Dip

• It’s rich, creamy, and cheesy in every bite. The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella creates an ultra-indulgent texture that melts beautifully in the oven. Each spoonful is loaded with savory flavor and just the right amount of garlic. It’s comfort food at its best!

• Perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, game day, or holiday party, this dip is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to transport and serve, and it tastes amazing warm out of the oven. Everyone will be asking for the recipe!

• Quick and easy to make. You only need about 15 minutes of prep time and a handful of simple ingredients. Just mix, bake, and serve — no special skills required. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results.

• Make ahead friendly. This dip can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. That means less stress and more time to enjoy your guests. Just pop it in the oven before serving!

• Versatile and customizable. You can easily adjust the seasonings or switch up the cheeses based on what you have on hand. It’s also naturally low carb and vegetarian. This dip is easy to tweak to suit different tastes or dietary needs.

Ingredients For Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Cream cheese – The base of the dip, making it smooth, creamy, and rich.

• Mayonnaise – Adds tanginess and helps create a silky texture.

• Parmesan cheese – Brings a nutty, salty flavor that deepens the overall taste.

• Romano cheese – Sharp and bold, it balances out the creamy ingredients.

• Garlic – Freshly minced for a flavorful punch.

• Dried basil – Adds a subtle herb flavor to enhance the dip.

• Garlic salt – Boosts both garlic flavor and saltiness in one step.

• Salt and pepper – Classic seasonings to taste.

• Canned artichoke hearts – Mild and tender, they add great texture without overpowering the dip.

• Frozen chopped spinach – Thawed and squeezed dry to keep the dip from getting watery.

• Mozzarella cheese – Melted on top for that irresistible cheesy finish.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Mixing bowl – For combining all the dip ingredients easily.

• Spatula or spoon – To stir and fold the mixture together.

• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.

• Garlic press (optional) – Makes mincing fresh garlic quick and easy.

• 8×8 baking dish – Ideal size for evenly baking the dip.

• Oven – To bake the dip until hot and bubbly.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Dip

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8×8 baking dish.

• In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, mayo, Parmesan, Romano, garlic, and seasonings until smooth.

• Once the base is well-mixed, gently fold in the chopped artichoke hearts and drained spinach.

• Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

• Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top to create a golden, melty crust.

• Bake for 25 minutes or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and slightly browned on top.

• Remove from the oven, serve hot, and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the dip hot and fresh from the oven for the best flavor and texture.

• Pair it with homemade pita bread, air-fried tortilla chips, or your favorite crackers.

• For a low-carb option, use mini bell pepper or cucumber sticks.

• Toasted mini baguette slices or crostini make it feel a little more fancy for guests.

• You can serve it straight from the baking dish or transfer to a serving bowl for a more polished look.

Tips For Success

• Use softened cream cheese – Cold cream cheese is hard to mix and will leave lumps in your dip. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using. Softened cream cheese blends smoothly with the other ingredients, making your dip extra creamy. It also helps the flavors distribute evenly throughout the dish.

• Drain the spinach thoroughly – Squeeze out as much water as you can from the thawed spinach. Excess moisture will make your dip runny instead of thick and rich. Use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to press out the liquid. This step is key to getting the perfect consistency.

• Mix the cheeses before adding veggies – Combine the cream cheese, mayo, and shredded cheeses before stirring in the spinach and artichokes. This keeps the veggies from getting smashed and helps the creamy mixture become smooth first. It’s easier to fold in the vegetables once the base is ready. You’ll end up with a dip that has a better texture and more defined bites of artichoke and spinach.

• Don’t overbake it – Keep an eye on the dip after 20 minutes in the oven. It should be hot and bubbling, with the cheese on top slightly browned. Overbaking can dry it out or make the edges tough. Pull it out as soon as it’s hot and golden for the best result.

• Make it ahead for easy entertaining – You can prepare the dip up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed and you’ll have a delicious appetizer without any last-minute work. This is a lifesaver when you’re hosting a party or need a quick dish to bring along.

Variations And Substitutions

• Swap the cheeses – If you don’t have Romano or Parmesan on hand, you can use all Parmesan, or even try asiago or cheddar for a twist. A blend of your favorite cheeses works just as well and adds a personal touch. Mozzarella gives that melty topping, but feel free to mix in a bit of provolone or Monterey Jack for more variety. Just make sure to keep the total amount of cheese the same so the dip stays balanced.

• Add a protein boost – Want to make it more filling? Stir in some cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped rotisserie chicken, or even shredded crab meat. This turns the dip into more of a hearty dish or meal starter. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and make it a little different every time.

• Make it spicier – For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You can also stir in chopped jalapeños or green chiles for an extra kick. Spice lovers can top it with pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella. It’s easy to customize the heat level based on your taste.

• Use fresh spinach instead of frozen – If you prefer using fresh spinach, just sauté it in a pan until wilted, then chop and drain it well. You’ll need about twice the amount of fresh to equal the frozen. This adds a bit more texture and a fresher flavor. Just be sure all moisture is removed before mixing it in.

• Go dairy-free or vegan – Use vegan cream cheese, dairy-free mayo, and plant-based cheeses. There are lots of great alternatives available that still melt and taste delicious. Also, double-check that your garlic salt and other seasonings don’t contain dairy-based fillers. With the right swaps, even plant-based eaters can enjoy this crowd-pleasing dip.

• Make it gluten-free – This dip is naturally gluten-free, but be mindful of what you serve it with. Pair with gluten-free crackers, veggie sticks, or gluten-free bread. Always check the labels on cheeses and other packaged ingredients to be safe. It’s a simple way to make this dish suitable for everyone at the table.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers: Once the dip has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in the oven: For best results, place the dip back in an oven-safe dish and reheat at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, about 15–20 minutes.

• Microwave option: You can also reheat smaller portions in the microwave. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

• Freezing not recommended: While it’s possible to freeze this dip, the creamy texture may change and become watery when thawed. For best taste and consistency, it’s better to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make spinach artichoke dip ahead of time?

Yes! This dip is great for preparing in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients together and spread them in your baking dish. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, bake as directed—no need to let it come to room temperature first.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely. If you prefer fresh spinach, sauté it in a pan until wilted, then chop and drain it well. Make sure to squeeze out any extra moisture to prevent a watery dip. You’ll need about twice as much fresh spinach to equal the frozen amount in the recipe.

What’s the best cheese to use?

This recipe uses a mix of cream cheese, Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella for a balanced cheesy flavor. However, you can substitute with other cheeses like asiago, cheddar, or Monterey Jack. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well and complements the dip’s flavors.

Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make spinach artichoke dip in a slow cooker. Just mix all the ingredients together and cook on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. Add the mozzarella at the end and let it melt before serving.

What can I serve with spinach artichoke dip?

You can serve this dip with tortilla chips, crackers, pita bread, or fresh veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers. For a fancier touch, try toasted baguette slices or crostini. It also pairs well with warm naan or gluten-free crackers if needed.

How do I keep the dip warm during a party?

To keep the dip warm for serving, you can use a mini slow cooker or a warming tray. These will keep the dip at a safe serving temperature without overcooking it. Just stir occasionally to keep it smooth and melty.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended. The texture may become watery and grainy after thawing due to the cream cheese and mayo. If you do freeze it, reheat slowly and stir well, but keep in mind the quality won’t be the same.

How do I know when the dip is done baking?

The dip is done when the top is lightly browned, the cheese is melted, and the mixture is bubbling around the edges. This usually takes about 25 minutes at 350°F. Avoid overbaking to keep the dip from drying out.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for a larger crowd. Use a 9×13 baking dish instead of an 8×8. The bake time may increase slightly—check at 30 minutes and continue until hot and bubbly.

Is this dip keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat, making it a great choice for a keto or low-carb diet. Just be sure to serve it with low-carb dippers like sliced cucumbers, celery, or low-carb chips.

Other Easy Spinach Recipes

Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Pasta Shells – Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, then baked with marinara and melted cheese for a comforting Italian dinner.

Stuffed Spinach Balls – These savory spinach balls are packed with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Spinach Mango Smoothie – This refreshing green smoothie blends sweet mango with nutrient-rich spinach for a healthy and energizing drink.

Other Easy Artichoke Recipes

Tomato Artichoke Salad – Juicy tomatoes and tender canned artichoke hearts come together in a simple, zesty salad perfect for a light side dish.

Artichokes In The Air Fryer – Whole artichokes turn crispy on the outside and tender on the inside with this easy air fryer method.

Steamed Artichokes – Classic steamed artichokes are soft, flavorful, and perfect for dipping in melted butter or your favorite sauce.

Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts – Frozen artichoke hearts crisp up beautifully in the air fryer for a quick and tasty side or appetizer.

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