Pin this I first made this dip on a Saturday afternoon when friends texted they were coming over in an hour. I had spinach in the freezer, a jar of artichokes in the pantry, and enough cheese to make it work. What came out of the oven that day has been requested at every gathering since. The top bubbled golden, the smell filled the whole apartment, and nobody believed it took less than half an hour.
I brought this to a potluck once and watched someone go back for thirds. She said it reminded her of a dip her mom used to make, except better. That night I realized comfort food does not need to be complicated. It just needs to be warm, cheesy, and shared with the right people.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: Softening it first makes mixing effortless, and it gives the dip that thick creamy body that holds everything together.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and keeps the texture smooth without making it too heavy.
- Mayonnaise: Helps the dip stay rich and glossy, and balances the sharpness of the cheeses.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and creates those stretchy bites everyone loves.
- Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that keeps the flavor from being one note.
- Frozen chopped spinach: Thaw it completely and squeeze it dry in a towel, or the dip will turn watery.
- Artichoke hearts: Chop them into small pieces so every scoop gets a little bit, and drain them well.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is worth it here, it wakes up the whole dish.
- Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes: Season to taste, the flakes add a subtle warmth that sneaks up on you.
Instructions
- Prep the oven and dish:
- Set your oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a medium baking dish so nothing sticks. This also makes cleanup easier later.
- Mix the creamy base:
- In a large bowl, blend the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth and lump free. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula, it takes a minute but the texture will be silky.
- Fold in the vegetables and seasonings:
- Stir in the spinach, chopped artichokes, garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until everything is evenly distributed. Taste it now, you can always add more seasoning.
- Transfer and spread:
- Scoop the mixture into your prepared dish and smooth the top with the back of a spoon. An even layer means even baking.
- Bake until golden:
- Slide it into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the dip is bubbling at the edges and the top turns lightly golden. The smell will tell you when it is ready.
- Serve warm:
- Pull it out and let it sit for a minute before serving with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or fresh cut vegetables. It is best when it is still hot and gooey.
Pin this One winter evening I served this during a game night, and we barely made it through the first round before the dish was empty. Someone said it tasted like the kind of food that makes you forget about the cold outside. That is exactly what a good dip should do.
Making It Your Own
If you want to change things up, swap mozzarella for fontina or provolone to shift the flavor profile. A handful of chopped green onions or a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the whole thing. I have also added a pinch of smoked paprika when I wanted a little more depth.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until warmed through, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each. It will not be quite as bubbly as fresh, but it still tastes just as good.
Serving Suggestions
This dip works with almost anything you can scoop. Tortilla chips are classic, but toasted pita wedges, crackers, or even celery sticks add crunch and balance. I have served it alongside crudités at a lighter gathering and it disappeared just as fast.
- Use sturdy chips that will not break under the weight of a generous scoop.
- Warm bread straight from the oven makes it feel even more special.
- Keep a small spoon in the dish so guests can serve themselves easily.
Pin this This dip has become my go to whenever I need something that feels indulgent but does not require much effort. It never disappoints, and it always brings people together around the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cheeses are used in this dish?
Cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan provide a rich and creamy texture.
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Be sure to wilt and drain excess moisture before mixing to maintain the right consistency.
- → How long should it bake?
Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden and the dip is hot and bubbly.
- → What are good serving options?
Serve warm with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, the red pepper flakes are optional and can be added or omitted according to your preferred heat level.