Are you ready to take your appetizer game to the next level? Dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness of our Spicy Spinach and Artichoke Dip! This crowd-pleaser is not just any dip; it's a flavor explosion that combines the rich tastes of artichokes and spinach with a kick of heat. Perfect for parties, game nights, or cozy evenings at home, this dip is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delectable dish in no time. Get ready to indulge in a warm, bubbly delight that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your dip cooks evenly and gets nicely bubbly and golden on top.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained spinach with the chopped artichoke hearts. Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the spinach to prevent the dip from becoming watery.
- Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. The mozzarella will add a delicious stretchiness to the dip.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, spreading it evenly across the surface. You can use a 9-inch pie dish or a small cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly. You want the top to be slightly golden and the cheese to be melted.
- Once done, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help prevent burns from the hot cheese.
- Serve your spicy spinach and artichoke dip warm with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables for dipping. Enjoy!
Tips
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh or high-quality canned artichoke hearts and good-quality cheese for the best flavor. If you can find it, fresh spinach can also elevate the taste.
- Squeeze Out the Moisture: Make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze the thawed spinach to avoid a watery dip. This will help maintain the perfect creamy texture.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños.
- Serve with Style: For a rustic touch, bake the dip in a cast-iron skillet. Not only does it look great, but it also keeps the dip warm longer.
- Experiment with Dippers: While tortilla chips are a classic choice, don’t hesitate to try serving the dip with sliced baguette, pita chips, or fresh veggie sticks for a healthier option.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dip mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving for a freshly melted treat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
