Dazzling dinner parties call for this irresistible Barefoot Contessa spinach artichoke dip that steals the spotlight every single time.
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with vibrant flavors, this crowd-pleaser emerges from a simple yet magical combination of fresh ingredients.
Marcie and jeffrey would absolutely swoon over each rich, velvety bite.
The dip brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, melting hearts faster than it melts cheese.
Perfectly seasoned and impossibly smooth, this recipe promises to be your new go-to appetizer.
Grab some crispy crackers or toasted baguette slices and get ready to impress everyone at the table.
Dive in and savor every delectable spoonful of this legendary dip that turns ordinary moments into memorable celebrations.
Presentation Ideas for Spinach Artichoke Dip
Dip into Party Perfection: Serve this creamy spinach artichoke dip as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at game nights, holiday gatherings, or potluck celebrations.
Craft a Stunning Snack Platter: Arrange the warm dip in the center surrounded by an array of crispy pita chips, fresh vegetable sticks, and toasted baguette slices for a gorgeous presentation.
Elevate Casual Meals: Use the dip as a delicious spread for sandwiches, stuff into grilled chicken breasts, or dollop on top of baked potatoes for an instant flavor boost.
Transform Leftovers into Magic: Fold any remaining dip into scrambled eggs, mix with pasta, or use as a rich sauce for roasted vegetables to create exciting new dishes.
Storing Leftovers of Spinach Artichoke Dip
Store Smartly: Transfer leftover dip into an airtight container, ensuring it cools completely before refrigerating to maintain quality and prevent bacterial growth.
Refrigerate Quickly: Keep the dip chilled for up to 3-4 days, making sure to store it within 2 hours after cooking to preserve its fresh taste and texture.
Reheat with Care: Warm the dip gently in the oven at 160°C for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy consistency and prevent separation.
Freeze for Later: Wrap the unbaked dip tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, storing it in the freezer for up to 1 month, allowing you to enjoy a quick appetizer anytime.
Quick Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 200 kcal
Servings: 8
What You Need for Spinach Artichoke Dip
For Creamy Base:
Cream Cheese: Brings luxurious richness and smooth texture to the dip.
Sour Cream: Adds tangy freshness and helps create a lighter consistency.
Mayonnaise: Enhances creaminess and provides subtle depth of flavor.
Garlic: Infuses bold, aromatic notes that elevate the entire dish.
For Vegetable and Cheese Boost:
Spinach: Delivers vibrant green color and nutritious earthy undertones.
Artichoke Hearts: Introduces a delicate, slightly nutty flavor and tender texture.
Mozzarella: Creates irresistible stretch and melty goodness.
Parmesan: Contributes sharp, salty complexity and golden-brown topping.
For Seasoning:
Salt: Balances and intensifies all the other flavors.
Black Pepper: Adds gentle warmth and subtle spiciness to the dip.
Tools for Assembling Spinach Artichoke Dip
Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients smoothly.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing dip components.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring ingredients precisely.
Cheese grater: Helpful for grating fresh Parmesan if needed.
1-litre baking dish: Crucial for baking and presenting the dip.
Oven mitts: Necessary for safely handling hot dishes.
Grater (optional): Useful for shredding mozzarella if using block cheese.
Preparing Spinach Artichoke Dip at Home
Spinach Artichoke Paradise
Creamy Foundation Preparation Gather all ingredients and create a luscious base by blending soft cream cheese with tangy sour cream, rich mayonnaise, and aromatic garlic until silky smooth.
Vegetable Symphony Gently fold tender spinach and hearty artichoke pieces into the creamy mixture, creating a delightful textural harmony. Sprinkle in melty mozzarella and nutty Parmesan for extra depth of flavor.
Baking Magic Spread the decadent mixture into a welcoming ceramic dish, generously crown with additional Parmesan cheese, and slide into a preheated oven. Let the magic happen as the dip transforms into a bubbling, golden masterpiece.
Golden Finishing Touch Activate the broiler for a quick moment, watching carefully as the top turns into a gorgeous, crispy golden landscape that promises irresistible crunch and flavor.
Gathering Moment Serve immediately while warm, surrounded by an array of crunchy companions like rustic bread, crisp crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks for dunking and sharing.
Tips and Variations for Spinach Artichoke Dip
Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or aged Asiago for a sharper, more robust flavor profile that adds depth to the dip.
Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give the dip a zesty kick that transforms the classic recipe into a fiery crowd-pleaser.
Assemble the dip up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the refrigerator, then bake just before serving to save time during party preparations.
Fold in crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic for additional layers of flavor that elevate the traditional spinach artichoke dip.
Replace regular cream cheese with low-fat versions or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to create a lighter, healthier alternative without sacrificing creamy texture.
This crowd-pleasing spinach artichoke dip combines creamy cheeses with tender vegetables for an irresistible appetizer. Barefoot Contessa’s signature recipe promises rich flavors and smooth textures that invite guests to scoop up generous portions.
Ingredients
Scale
280 g (9.9 oz) frozen spinach, thawed, drained, and chopped
400 g (14.1 oz) tinned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
225 g (7.9 oz) cream cheese, softened
55 g (1.9 oz) grated mozzarella
75 g (2.6 oz) grated Parmesan, divided
120 ml (4.1 fl oz) sour cream
60 ml (2 fl oz) mayonnaise
1 garlic clove, grated
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Crisps, crackers, or toasted bread, for serving
Instructions
Preparation: Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F and lightly grease a 1-litre baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Base Creation: Whisk cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and minced garlic in a large mixing bowl until smooth and lump-free, creating a rich, creamy foundation for the dip.
Ingredient Incorporation: Gently fold chopped spinach and diced artichoke hearts into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution and a consistent texture throughout.
Cheese Blend: Mix in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring carefully to integrate the cheeses while maintaining the dip’s delicate consistency.
Seasoning and Assembly: Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly and topping with remaining Parmesan for an extra flavor boost.
Baking Process: Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges become bubbly and surface sets, then activate the grill (broiler) to achieve a golden-brown crust for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Serving: Remove from oven and allow to rest for 2-3 minutes, then serve piping hot alongside crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable crudités for a delightful appetizer experience.
Notes
Prevent Watery Dip: Squeeze excess moisture from spinach and artichokes to maintain a thick, creamy consistency.
Cheese Temperature Tip: Use room-temperature cream cheese for smoother blending and more even texture.
Broiling Caution: Watch closely during final browning to prevent burning; golden-brown is the goal.
Serving Suggestion: Best enjoyed warm within 30 minutes of baking for optimal flavor and texture.
Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Baking and Pastry Arts
Focus: Techniques in baking, pastry creation, and dessert presentation.
San Antonio Culinary Institute
Program: Diploma in Farm-to-Table Culinary Practices
Focus: Emphasis on utilizing locally sourced ingredients and understanding seasonal flavors.
Sophia’s passion for baking began in her family kitchen, where she spent hours experimenting with new recipes. With a background in baking and pastry arts, she loves making desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Sophia is all about using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create treats that everyone will enjoy. When she’s not creating mouth-watering desserts, you can find her gardening, making new recipes, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon with her family.
Sophia Rivera
Recipe Developer & Kitchen Tips Specialist
Expertise
Education
Austin Community College
San Antonio Culinary Institute
Sophia’s passion for baking began in her family kitchen, where she spent hours experimenting with new recipes. With a background in baking and pastry arts, she loves making desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Sophia is all about using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create treats that everyone will enjoy. When she’s not creating mouth-watering desserts, you can find her gardening, making new recipes, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon with her family.