Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Bake

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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If you're searching for a comforting dish that brings a touch of elegance to your table, look no further than this Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Bake. It's a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of spice that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Bake

The base of this dish is olive oil, which is used to sauté the onion and garlic, creating a flavorful foundation. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green color and a healthy dose of nutrients. Artichoke hearts contribute a unique, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy components. The cream cheese and sour cream create a rich, velvety texture, while mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add depth and savory notes. To season, a simple blend of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes provides just the right amount of heat. Topping it all off, panko breadcrumbs mixed with butter give a satisfying crunch to contrast the creamy filling.

Tips & Tricks

  • If your cream cheese isn't soft enough, microwave it for about 15 seconds to make it easier to mix.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier consistency if available.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a light pasta dish. A crisp, white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements its flavors wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before adding it to the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.

Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Bake Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your dish is. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onion turns translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.

Next, add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir it around until it wilts, which will take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once the spinach is wilted, introduce the chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well combined and the cheese melts into a creamy mixture.

Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the top of your spinach-artichoke mix, ensuring an even coating.

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and bubbling edges. Once done, let it cool slightly before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect balance of creamy and savory flavors.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight or last-minute gathering.
  • Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or a main course.
  • Uses accessible, pantry-friendly ingredients.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
10 oz fresh spinach, chopped
14 oz canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
6. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the spinach and artichoke mixture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
8. Let it cool slightly before serving.

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