Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A warm, creamy, cheesy appetizer

Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Chef Josie

There are some appetizers that simply make people light up the moment they appear on the table. A bubbling, golden, irresistibly creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip is one of those timeless dishes. It is rich, comforting, familiar and always the first appetizer to disappear at parties. Whether you are hosting a family dinner, organizing a potluck with friends, or planning a game night feast, this dip is the kind of recipe that guarantees compliments.

My love for Spinach and Artichoke Dip started years ago when I served it as part of a winter supper spread. I needed something that felt warm and inviting, something that people could gather around and enjoy together. The reaction was instant. Everyone hovered around the warm baking dish, scooping up creamy spoonfuls with bread, crackers and vegetables. Some people went back three times. Someone even said they could skip dinner altogether and just eat this.

Over time, this beloved dip has become my go to dish for Easy Finger Foods For Party, casual Supper Ideas, cozy nights in and holiday gatherings filled with comfort food. What makes this dip so special is its perfect balance of textures. There is the soft, melty richness of cream cheese, the savory saltiness of Parmesan, the stringy goodness of mozzarella and the earthy flavor of tender spinach. Then come the artichokes, which add a subtle tang and a tender bite that keeps each scoop interesting.

Although this dish tastes luxurious, it is incredibly easy to make, making it ideal for anyone looking for Appetizer Snacks or Appetizer Recipes For Party that require minimal work. It uses simple ingredients you can find in any grocery store and comes together with only a few mixing steps. Once it is in the oven, all you have to do is wait for it to bubble and brown beautifully.

This Spinach and Artichoke Dip is also the kind of dish that works for many different occasions. It fits right into Finger Foods Appetizer Recipes, Appetizers For Dinner, or even as part of a spread for Easy Healthy Dinner nights when you want something satisfying without making a huge entrée. Served with crusty bread, tortilla chips, pita chips or fresh veggies, it never fails to impress.

Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or preparing Party Snacks Finger Foods for a movie night, this recipe always brings people together. The warmth, flavor and classic nostalgia make it special, and once you bake it yourself, you may never buy the store bought version again.

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Why You Will Love This Spinach and Artichoke Dip

• Creamy, cheesy and irresistibly rich
• The perfect appetizer for casual dinners, potlucks and gatherings
• Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find
• Ideal for Appetizers Easy Finger Food or snack boards
• Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish
• A guaranteed crowd pleaser for all ages
• Can be prepped ahead and baked later
• Versatile enough to serve with many different dippers
• Works well for warm weather parties or cozy winter evenings
• Easy to scale for large or small events
• Classic flavor everyone recognizes and enjoys

Ingredient Breakdown

Cream Cheese

This is the foundation of the dip, giving it the creamy and rich base. Softened cream cheese blends easily and ensures the dip is smooth. It creates the luxurious mouthfeel people love and holds all the ingredients together.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

Sour cream adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess, helping balance the richness of the cheese. Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter, protein rich variation while still keeping the texture smooth.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise adds moisture and depth while helping prevent the dip from drying out. It enhances the texture and ensures the dip stays creamy even after cooling slightly.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating the classic stretchy, gooey texture people expect from Spinach and Artichoke Dip.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan adds a nutty, salty richness that balances the mildness of the spinach and the tang of the artichokes.

Frozen Spinach

Frozen spinach is convenient and works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure it is fully thawed and squeezed dry to avoid a watery dip. Spinach provides earthy flavor and a satisfying texture.

Canned or Jarred Artichoke Hearts

Artichokes bring a mild tang and tender bite. They add complexity and perfectly complement the creamy base.

Garlic

Fresh garlic or garlic powder enhances the flavor and adds aromatic depth. It rounds out the creamy cheeses with savory brightness.

Salt and Pepper

Seasoning makes all the ingredients shine. A little goes a long way with cheeses, so taste as you go.

Optional Add Ins

• Chili flakes for heat
• Chopped green onions for freshness
• Lemon zest for brightness
• Cream cheese with herbs for added flavor
• Shredded pepper jack for a spicy twist

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spinach

If using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Excess water will dilute your dip, so make sure it is as dry as you can manage. A paper towel or clean dish towel works well for wringing it out.

2. Chop the Artichokes

Drain the artichoke hearts and chop them into small pieces. Larger chunks add texture, while finely chopped pieces blend more evenly into the creamy base. Choose what you prefer.

3. Mix the Creamy Base

In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise and garlic. Use a spoon, spatula or electric mixer to blend until fully smooth. The base should be thick, creamy and well incorporated.

4. Add the Spinach and Artichokes

Fold in the dried spinach and chopped artichokes. Make sure the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.

5. Add the Cheeses

Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Save a bit of mozzarella for the top so it browns nicely during baking.

6. Taste and Adjust

Before baking, taste the mixture. Add salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer more tang, add a spoonful of extra sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice.

7. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into a baking or casserole dish. Smooth the top and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the surface.

8. Bake Until Bubbly

Bake until the dip is hot, bubbly and golden on the edges. The cheese on top should be melted and slightly browned.

9. Serve Warm

Serve immediately with bread, crackers, chips or vegetable sticks. The dip is at its best when warm, but it stays delicious even as it cools slightly.

Notes and Top Tips

• Always dry the spinach well to avoid a runny dip.
• Use full fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
• Add chopped jalapeños if you want a spicy twist.
• Make ahead by mixing the dip and refrigerating until baking.
• Reheat leftovers gently to preserve texture.
• Serve in a bread bowl for a fun presentation.
• Leftovers taste great spread on sandwiches or wraps.
• Add caramelized onions for extra sweetness and depth.
• Adjust garlic based on your preference. Fresh garlic gives stronger flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Ideas

• Serve with sliced baguette or French bread
• Pair with tortilla chips or pita chips
• Add to a platter of carrots, celery and cherry tomatoes
• Include on appetizer boards for Yummy Appetizers
• Use as a spread for sandwich sliders
• Serve alongside chicken wings or baked potatoes

Variations

Spicy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes or pepper jack cheese.

Healthier Version
Replace half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt and use reduced fat cheeses.

Baked Spinach Artichoke Pasta
Mix the dip with cooked pasta for a creamy entrée.

Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Chicken
Spread over chicken breasts and bake for a flavorful dinner.

Slow Cooker Version
Cook the mixture in a small slow cooker for hands free entertaining.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator:
Store leftover dip in a sealed container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:
Freeze before baking for best results. Thaw overnight and bake as usual.

Reheating:

• Oven: Low heat until warm
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals
• Slow cooker: Keep warm during parties

Why You Will Make This Again

This Spinach and Artichoke Dip is the definition of a crowd pleasing appetizer. It is creamy, flavorful, warm and comforting. It works for every occasion, from casual nights in to full holiday spreads. It is incredibly easy to customize, simple to prepare and always a hit. Once you make it yourself, you will realize how much better homemade dip tastes compared to store bought versions. It has richer flavor, fresher ingredients and a warmth that makes gatherings feel extra special.

FAQs

1. Can I make this Spinach and Artichoke Dip ahead of time
Yes. Prepare the mixture, refrigerate and bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen
Yes. Cook it down and squeeze out excess liquid.

3. What dippers work best
Bread, chips, crackers and vegetables all pair perfectly.

4. Can I make it dairy free
Use dairy free cream cheese, vegan mayo and vegan cheeses.

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