Introduction

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is the ultimate comfort food, a creamy and cheesy masterpiece that’s become a staple at any gathering. It’s the kind of dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser—rich, indulgent, and utterly delicious. The combination of tender spinach, artichokes, and a mix of melty cheeses creates a smooth and velvety dip that’s just irresistible. Served warm and bubbly, it’s like a hug in a bowl, making it the perfect appetizer for everything from casual get-togethers to festive holiday parties.

I can’t help but smile when I think about how this dip has been the star of so many of my gatherings. I’ll never forget the first time I made it for a family reunion. As soon as it came out of the oven, the smell filled the kitchen, and everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. It disappeared so quickly that I had to make a second batch just to keep up! Whether paired with crispy crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables, this dip is always the first to be devoured.

What I love most about Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is how easy it is to make yet how impressive it is when you serve it. It’s a simple recipe that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a big party or just enjoying a quiet night in, this dip will never disappoint. And if you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), it tastes even better the next day!

Perfect for:

Parties and gatherings
Holiday appetizers
Game day snacks
Potlucks and picnics
Casual get-togethers with friends and family

Why You’ll Love This Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Here’s why Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip will become your go-to appetizer:

Cheesy Goodness: The creamy cheese base creates a rich, velvety dip that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Perfect Balance of Flavors: The earthy spinach, tangy artichokes, and savory cheeses meld together to create a dip that is both comforting and flavorful.
Warm and Cozy: Served hot from the oven, the gooey, bubbling texture is irresistible—making it perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings.
Crowd-Pleasing: This dip is always a hit, making it an easy choice for gatherings, parties, and holidays.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and quick prep, this dip comes together effortlessly, allowing you more time to enjoy with your guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 40 minutes
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 21g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Ingredient Highlights

Spinach: The spinach adds both a pop of color and a wealth of nutrients like fiber, iron, and vitamins A and C.
Artichokes: Artichokes bring a slightly tangy and earthy flavor, balancing out the richness of the creamy ingredients.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese creates the dip’s gooey, melty texture and enhances the flavor with its mild, creamy profile.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the richness of the mozzarella and cream base.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These ingredients give the dip its creamy consistency and tangy undertone.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

Prepare the Ingredients:

Thaw and Drain Spinach: Place the frozen spinach in a fine mesh strainer and press out excess moisture using the back of a spoon or paper towels. This step ensures the dip won’t be watery.
Chop the Artichokes: Drain and chop the artichoke hearts into bite-sized pieces, making sure they are well-drained to avoid adding extra liquid to the dip.

Mix the Dip:

Combine the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined.
Add the Spinach and Artichokes: Fold the thawed spinach and chopped artichokes into the cheese mixture, stirring until everything is evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the Dip:

Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a small baking dish (such as a 9×9-inch or similar-sized dish) with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
Transfer the Dip: Pour the spinach and artichoke mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the dip is heated through.

Serve:

Serve Warm: Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The dip is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven.

How to Serve Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a versatile appetizer that pairs well with a variety of dippables and sides:

With Crispy Crackers: Serve with crackers such as pita chips, crostini, or tortilla chips for an easy and crunchy pairing.
With Fresh Vegetables: Fresh celery, carrot sticks, or cucumber slices offer a healthy and refreshing contrast to the rich dip.
With Toasted Bread: Slice a baguette or French bread and toast the pieces for a warm, crusty option.
As a Side for Sandwiches: Use the dip as a delicious side dish for sandwiches or wraps, adding extra flavor to your meal.
For Game Day: Serve with chips and a side of drinks to make the dip a hit during sporting events or game day parties.

Additional Tips for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Here are some tips to make your Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip even better:

Use Fresh Spinach: If you prefer, you can substitute the frozen spinach with fresh spinach. Sauté it briefly to soften before draining and adding to the dip.
Customize the Cheese: For a sharper flavor, use sharp cheddar cheese or Gruyère in place of mozzarella.
Add Garlic: For extra flavor, sauté some fresh garlic before adding it to the dip mixture, or stir in garlic powder for a milder version.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dip a little heat.
Top with More Cheese: For an extra cheesy crust, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking.

Recipe Variations for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Here are 10 variations you can try for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

Buffalo Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Add some buffalo sauce to the mix for a spicy, tangy twist.
Cream Cheese Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Swap the sour cream for cream cheese for a richer, creamier base.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to the dip for a savory, smoky flavor.
Vegan Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Use vegan mayonnaise, vegan cheese, and plant-based sour cream for a dairy-free version.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of savory flavor.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Jalapeños: Add chopped fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Cauliflower Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Replace some of the spinach with chopped cauliflower for a unique twist.
Grilled Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Grill the artichokes and spinach before mixing to give the dip a smoky flavor.
Greek Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Add Kalamata olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired version.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Mozzarella and Ricotta: Swap out the mayonnaise for ricotta cheese for a creamier, richer texture.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: If you want to make this dip ahead of time, you can freeze it before baking. Assemble the dip in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake from frozen for 35-40 minutes or until bubbly.
Storage: Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Special Equipment for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip easier:

Baking Dish: A 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish is ideal for this recipe.
Electric Mixer: An electric hand mixer can help blend the creamier ingredients smoothly, but it’s not necessary if mixing by hand.
Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy spoon or spatula is perfect for mixing and folding in the spinach and artichokes.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements of cheese, mayonnaise, and other ingredients ensure the perfect consistency.
Oven Mitts: Protect your hands when removing the dip from the oven.

FAQ Section for Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Sauté it lightly, then drain and chop it before adding it to the dip.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dip and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it before baking and bake it fresh when you’re ready.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or even goat cheese for unique flavors.
How can I make this dip spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to the dip to give it a spicy kick.
Can I make this dip vegan?
Yes, by substituting vegan mayonnaise, dairy-free cheese, and plant-based sour cream, you can create a delicious vegan version.

Conclusion

Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Its creamy, cheesy texture combined with the earthy flavors of spinach and artichokes makes for a comforting and indulgent dip that everyone will love. Whether served with crispy crackers, fresh veggies, or warm, toasted bread, this dip is guaranteed to disappear quickly at your next gathering. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, leaving you more time to enjoy the party and less time spent in the kitchen.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding extra ingredients like bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cheeses to suit your taste. Whether you like it extra creamy or with a bit more bite, this dip can be adapted to match your preferences. It’s a great make-ahead option, so you can prepare it in advance and simply bake it right before serving.

I’d love to see how your Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip turns out! Don’t forget to take a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see your tasty creation! Let me know how it goes, and feel free to share any unique twists you’ve added to make it your own. Enjoy!