Description
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg