Recipe-o'-clock: Prepare this delicious and healthy spinach artichoke dip
Spinach artichoke dip is a beloved American appetizer, often served at parties and gatherings. Its creamy texture and savory flavor have made it a staple in casual dining restaurants and home kitchens alike. Though its exact origins are unclear, it has become synonymous with comfort food across the United States. So, let's get cooking and bring this crowd-pleaser to your table.
Gather the following ingredients
To make this savory dip, you'll need one cup of chopped spinach (thawed if frozen), one cup of canned artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), eight ounces of cream cheese, half a cup of sour cream, half a cup of mayonnaise, two cloves of garlic (minced), two-thirds of a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Combine cream cheese mixture
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium bowl, smoothly beat the cream cheese until it's creamy. Blend in the sour cream and mayonnaise until the mixture is uniform. Finally, mix in the minced garlic thoroughly to ensure that sharp, garlicky flavor permeates the creamy base, preparing it for the next steps of the recipe.
Mix in greens and cheese
Incorporate the chopped spinach and artichoke hearts into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Add the majority of the Parmesan cheese, reserving a small quantity for the final topping. Stir the concoction well so that each component is fully integrated, creating a homogeneous dip that's ready for further preparation and eventual baking to achieve its signature creamy, indulgent consistency.
Bake to perfection
Place the dip mixture into an oven-safe dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining Parmesan and all of the mozzarella cheese for a rich, gooey crust. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The dip should have a golden-brown top and the cheeses should be melted and bubbly when it's ready to come out.
Serve warm with sides
Once the dip is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly, remove it from the oven. Let it cool just enough to be comfortably served. This warm dip is delightful with a variety of sides such as toasted bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It's now ready to take center stage at your next gathering, sure to impress and satisfy your guests.
