It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I was hosting a small gathering with friends. You know that feeling when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen? That’s when quick spinach artichoke dip made its debut in my home. This dish is not just a dip—it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re pairing it with warm, crispy tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks, it’s hard to resist its creamy goodness. As my friends lounged in the backyard, I set the scene with a table full of delightful snacks.
The spin on traditional flavors combined with the ease of preparation made it the highlight of the day.

What is Quick Spinach Artichoke Dip?
Quick spinach artichoke dip is a creamy, savory dip that combines spinach, artichokes, cheeses, and spices. It’s often baked to achieve a bubbly, golden crust, but this version allows for a quick assembly and shorter cooking time, perfect for those impromptu get-togethers.
Originating as a restaurant staple, this dip has become a household favorite. It’s not just a party food; it’s a versatile option for any gathering or a cozy night in with a favorite movie.
The Ingredients
Here’s a sneak peek at what you need to whip up this delicious dip:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and excess moisture pressed out
- 10 oz marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup thick sour cream
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise, preferably full-fat
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Quick Spinach Artichoke Dip?
Making this delicious dip is incredibly straightforward. You’ll need to combine the ingredients and bake them until hot and bubbly. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before diving into the ingredients, let’s preheat that oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s essential for getting that perfect golden-brown top on the dip before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach
Thaw the frozen spinach in the microwave or by placing it in a bowl of warm water. Once thawed, drain it well and squeeze out the excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial. Any leftover moisture can make your dip runny.
Step 3: Mix the Dip Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream first. Beat them together until smooth and creamy. This step is easier if the cream cheese is at room temperature.
Then, mix in the chopped artichoke hearts, drained spinach, minced garlic, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and crushed red pepper flakes. Lastly, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the mixture into a baking dish. You can use a 9-inch pie plate or an 8×8 square dish—just ensure it’s oven-safe. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake the Dip
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top. This golden crust is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the dip from the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving. Pair it with your favorite accompaniments and watch it disappear!
Notes
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dip turns out perfect every time:
- Fresh Spinach: If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 1 pound. Cook it down and squeeze out excess water before mixing.
- Add More Cheese: Don’t shy away from additional cheese. A sprinkle of cheddar on top can add extra flavor.
- Customize It: Add cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Serve Warm: This dip is best served warm, so keep that in mind, especially if you’re prepping it ahead of time.
- Garnish: Consider topping with chopped fresh parsley or more sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant look.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will), you can store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm it up in the microwave or return it to the oven until heated through. You might need to add a splash of cream or milk if it looks too thick after refrigeration.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some tasty ways to enjoy your quick spinach artichoke dip:
1. Warm Tortilla Chips: The classic choice. The crispy texture complements the creamy dip perfectly.
2. Fresh Veggie Sticks: Carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers make for a healthy yet crunchy companion.
3. Pita Bread: Warm pita slices serve as a delightful alternative. It’s the perfect blend of chewy and crispy.
4. Crostini: Toasted baguette slices elevate the dip for more sophisticated gatherings. Just don’t be surprised if your guests keep coming back for more!
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Use the dip as a spread for grilled cheese—the ultimate comfort food twist. Your lunch will never be the same!
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Quick Spinach Artichoke Dip?
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to mix it up, here are some useful substitutes:
1. Greek Yogurt: For a healthier alternative to sour cream, Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess.
2. Ricotta Cheese: This can replace some of the cream cheese for a lighter texture with a subtle sweetness.
3. Vegan Cream Cheese: For a dairy-free version, opt for a plant-based cream cheese to cater to vegan guests.
4. Canned Artichokes: If marinated artichokes aren’t available, plain canned artichokes can work too. Just season them a bit more.
5. Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy flavor without dairy, sprinkle in some nutritional yeast. It’s a fantastic vegan option!

Conclusion
Preparing quick spinach artichoke dip has been one of my favorite culinary adventures. It’s easy, delicious, and always hits the spot at any gathering. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet and indulgent.
I hope this recipe inspires you to whip up your own version and share it with friends and family. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think it might be time for a little midnight snack—there’s still some dip in the fridge!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
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- Best Olive Garden Pasta E Fagioli Soup Copycat Recipe

Quick Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe – Recipes From Chef
Description
It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I was hosting a small gathering with friends. You know that feeling when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen? That's when quick spinach artichoke dip made its debut in my home. This dish is not just a dip—it's a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Before diving into the ingredients, let's preheat that oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s essential for getting that perfect golden-brown top on the dip before serving.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach
-
Thaw the frozen spinach in the microwave or by placing it in a bowl of warm water. Once thawed, drain it well and squeeze out the excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is crucial. Any leftover moisture can make your dip runny.
Step 3: Mix the Dip Ingredients
-
Grab a large mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream first. Beat them together until smooth and creamy. This step is easier if the cream cheese is at room temperature.
Then, mix in the chopped artichoke hearts, drained spinach, minced garlic, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and crushed red pepper flakes. Lastly, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
-
Spoon the mixture into a baking dish. You can use a 9-inch pie plate or an 8x8 square dish—just ensure it’s oven-safe. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake the Dip
-
Place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top. This golden crust is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
-
Carefully remove the dip from the oven. Let it cool slightly before serving. Pair it with your favorite accompaniments and watch it disappear!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 14
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 205kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14.8g23%
- Saturated Fat 6.2g31%
- Trans Fat 0.1g
- Cholesterol 32mg11%
- Sodium 444mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 9g3%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 11g22%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Fresh Spinach: If you prefer fresh spinach, use about 1 pound. Cook it down and squeeze out excess water before mixing.
- Add More Cheese: Don't shy away from additional cheese. A sprinkle of cheddar on top can add extra flavor.
- Customize It: Add cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Serve Warm: This dip is best served warm, so keep that in mind, especially if you’re prepping it ahead of time.
- Garnish: Consider topping with chopped fresh parsley or more sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant look.