Super Bowl Appetizer Spinach Artichoke Dip
Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes
I love to create the perfect spread for game day, and this Spinach Artichoke Dip has become a staple in our Super Bowl festivities. I discovered that combining fresh spinach with creamy artichokes, rich cheese, and a hint of garlic creates a flavor explosion that's irresistible. Every time I serve it, the bowl is emptied in no time, and everyone asks for the recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it the ultimate go-to appetizer for any gathering.
When I first tried making Spinach Artichoke Dip, I was skeptical about how well the flavors would meld together. To my surprise, the combination of creamy mayonnaise and sour cream with delicate artichoke hearts and vibrant spinach created a dip that was not only delicious but also addictive. I like serving it warm with crispy tortilla chips, which perfectly complement the richness of the dip.
One of my favorite tips is to use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Fresh spinach retains a more vibrant taste and texture, making the dip fresher overall. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cheese on top before baking for that bubbling, golden finish!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy goodness that's a crowd-pleaser
- Easy to prepare and bake in just 35 minutes
- Perfect for sharing during game day or parties
The Star Ingredients
The combination of fresh spinach and artichoke hearts creates a vibrant and flavorful base for this dip. Fresh spinach not only adds a rich green color but also contributes essential nutrients like vitamins A and K, enhancing the dish's health profile. When mixed with the creamy cheeses, the spinach wilts down, integrating beautifully into the dip without taking away from the rich flavors of the artichokes and cheeses.
Artichoke hearts are the standout ingredient, providing a unique texture and a slightly tangy flavor that balances well with the richness of the cream cheese and sour cream. Choose marinated or canned artichokes for convenience, but ensure they're drained well to avoid excess moisture that can make your dip too runny. Chopping them into smaller pieces will also help distribute the flavors more evenly throughout the dip.
Execution & Technique
For a perfectly creamy texture, it’s crucial to soften the cream cheese before mixing. You can do this by leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwaving it in short bursts (10-15 seconds), stirring in between until just soft but not melted. A smooth mixture will ensure that the dip doesn’t have lumps, making scooping easy and enjoyable for your guests.
When folding in the spinach and artichokes, use a rubber spatula and be gentle. Overmixing can break down the ingredients too much, leading to a less appealing texture. You want to maintain some chunkiness from the artichokes and a fluffy consistency from the cheeses, so mix until just combined for the best results. Look for a harmonious blend where ingredients are visibly swirled together without being completely homogenized.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for this delicious dip!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Now that you have everything prepped, let's get cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your dip!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth.
Add Spinach and Artichokes
Fold in the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until evenly combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture into a baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips or toasted bread.
Enjoy your warm Spinach Artichoke Dip!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add some chopped green onions or a dash of lemon juice to the mix. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist.
Make-Ahead Options
This Spinach Artichoke Dip is perfect for making ahead of time, which can save you stress on game day. You can prepare the mixture, transfer it to your baking dish, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while preheating your oven, then bake as directed.
If you have leftovers, storing them is easy too! Just place the dip in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for up to four days. To reheat, cover it with foil and heat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave single portions, which makes for a quick snack option!
Serving Suggestions
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Tortilla chips are a classic choice, providing a nice crunch that complements the dip’s creaminess. For a healthier option, consider sliced vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrot sticks; they add a refreshing crunch and a bit of color to your spread. Hosting a party? Set up a dip station with an assortment of breads, crackers, and even some lightly toasted baguette slices.
For a fun twist, take your serving up a notch by sprinkling extra mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before baking. Broil the dip for the last couple of minutes for a bubbly, golden crust that will have everyone reaching for more. You can even add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for an added touch of freshness!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
→ How can I make this dip spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or incorporate some chopped jalapeños into the mixture.
→ Can I prepare this dip in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
→ What can I serve with this dip?
Tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks make great dippers.
Super Bowl Appetizer Spinach Artichoke Dip
I love to create the perfect spread for game day, and this Spinach Artichoke Dip has become a staple in our Super Bowl festivities. I discovered that combining fresh spinach with creamy artichokes, rich cheese, and a hint of garlic creates a flavor explosion that's irresistible. Every time I serve it, the bowl is emptied in no time, and everyone asks for the recipe. It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it the ultimate go-to appetizer for any gathering.
Created by: Juniper Hale
Recipe Type: Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic. Mix until smooth.
Fold in the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until evenly combined.
Spread the mixture into a baking dish and smooth the top.
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with tortilla chips or toasted bread.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add some chopped green onions or a dash of lemon juice to the mix. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g