Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip with a Twist

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip with a Twist is a flavorful take on a classic favorite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it’s rich, savory, and has a bit of smoky depth that makes it stand out.

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip with a Twist

Olive oil sets the stage with a subtle fruity base for sautéing. Onion and garlic bring in a savory aroma, essential for depth. Artichoke hearts add a tangy, slightly nutty flavor, while spinach brings a fresh earthiness. The trio of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise ensures the dip is creamy and luxurious. Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, lending a gooey texture, and Parmesan cheese offers a sharp, salty finish. A touch of smoked paprika introduces a warm, smoky layer, and a splash of lemon juice brightens the entire dish. Seasoning with salt and pepper ties all the flavors together.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh spinach if possible. It wilts perfectly and adds vibrant color.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • Make sure cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.

Serving Suggestions

This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers. Try serving it with crusty bread slices, crunchy pita chips, or an assortment of fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. For a heartier option, use it as a topping for baked potatoes or mix it into pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can use regular paprika, but the smokiness will be missed. Consider adding a dash of liquid smoke as an alternative.
Is this dip freezer-friendly?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge and bake when needed.

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip with a Twist Recipe Walkthrough

First, set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) so it's ready when you are. Grab a skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently until they turn translucent and fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma.

Next, stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and spinach. Cook everything together until the spinach wilts down into a tender, vibrant green mass. This should only take a few minutes.

While that cools a bit, take a large mixing bowl and combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix them until smooth. Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, sprinkling in some smoked paprika and a dash of lemon juice to liven things up.

Now, fold in the spinach and artichoke mixture. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Once everything is well combined, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly, inviting everyone to dive in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make and ready in under an hour.
  • Features a smoky paprika twist for a unique flavor.
  • Uses fresh and pantry ingredients for convenience.
  • Rich and creamy texture that feels indulgent.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
5 oz fresh spinach, chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in artichoke hearts and spinach, cook until spinach wilts.
4. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and lemon juice.
5. Fold in the cooked spinach and artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with bread or crackers.

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