I have to admit, I couldn’t resist trying this Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip with Crackers Recipe the moment I saw it on the menu. After making it myself, I realized why it’s such a crowd-pleaser—it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. I love how the spinach and artichokes blend perfectly with melted cheese for that indulgent, comforting taste.
Every bite feels like a little party in your mouth. You can also enjoy similar hearty flavors in the Smoked Sausage and Rice Recipe for a satisfying meal. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want it at every gathering!
Ingredients
Here’s what I used to make the perfect Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip with Crackers:
- Fresh spinach – 2 cups, chopped. I always use fresh spinach for a vibrant color and better texture. Avoid frozen; it makes the dip watery.
- Artichoke hearts – 1 can (14 oz), drained and chopped. They bring a tangy, hearty flavor that balances the cheese.
- Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened. This adds creaminess and binds the dip together beautifully.
- Sour cream – ½ cup. I use full-fat for the richest texture.
- Mayonnaise – ¼ cup. It enhances the smoothness and adds a subtle tang.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch.
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated. Freshly grated gives a nutty, sharp flavor that pre-grated can’t match.
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded. Melts beautifully and makes the dip extra gooey.
- Lemon juice – 1 tsp. Brightens the flavors and cuts through the richness.
- Salt – ½ tsp, or to taste. Enhances all the flavors.
- Black pepper – ¼ tsp. I like a hint of spice for depth.
- Crackers – for serving. I recommend plain or lightly salted ones so they don’t overpower the dip.
Note: several servings
Variations
If you want to mix it up, here are some alternatives I love trying:
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based cream cheese and vegan mozzarella for a lactose-free option.
- Low-fat: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a smoky kick.
- Protein boost: Stir in cooked, chopped chicken or bacon for a heartier dip. You can also pair it with a protein-packed dish like Sesame Chicken Recipe for a full meal.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it takes to get this dip from prep to table:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
- Oven-safe baking dish – to bake the dip evenly.
- Mixing bowl – for combining all ingredients smoothly.
- Knife and chopping board – to prep spinach, garlic, and artichokes.
- Grater – for freshly grating the cheeses.
- Spoon or spatula – to mix and serve the dip.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip with Crackers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
I always start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, I chop the spinach and artichokes and grate the cheeses so everything is ready. This keeps the process quick and organized.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, I combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and garlic until smooth. I then fold in the chopped spinach and artichokes, followed by the cheeses. A squeeze of lemon juice brings all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 3: Season
I add salt and black pepper to taste. I always taste a tiny bit at this stage—this ensures the flavors are perfectly balanced before baking.
Step 4: Bake
I pour the mixture into an oven-safe dish and bake for 20 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The aroma while it bakes is irresistible!
Step 5: Serve
Once out of the oven, I let it cool for a few minutes. Then, I serve it with crackers for dipping. The combination of creamy dip and crispy crackers is perfect.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my experience, these little tweaks make a big difference:
- I always squeeze out extra moisture from spinach to prevent a watery dip.
- Using a mix of cheeses adds depth—mozzarella for gooeyness and Parmesan for flavor.
- Letting the dip rest a few minutes after baking makes it easier to scoop.
- If I want extra flavor, I lightly toast the garlic before mixing.
How to Serve Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip with Crackers
Serving is almost as fun as making it! I like to place the dip in a decorative bowl, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and chopped parsley on top, and arrange the crackers around the edge. It looks elegant and inviting, perfect for parties or a cozy night in. You can also serve it with sliced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for a colorful touch.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the key nutritional facts per serving:
- Calories: 250–280 kcal depending on cheese used
- Protein: 10–12 g
- Carbohydrates: 6–8 g
- Fat: 22–25 g
This dip is indulgent, but portion control makes it a perfect appetizer treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
I keep leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It stays creamy and flavorful if properly covered.
Freezing
This dip freezes well! I place it in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
I reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Microwave works too, but the oven keeps it bubbly and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why I always come back to this dip:
- Super easy to make: Just mix, bake, and serve—minimal effort, maximum flavor.
- Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves the cheesy, creamy combo with crunchy crackers.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal with veggies.
- Customizable: I can tweak the cheese, spice, or protein to my liking.
- Comfort food: Warm, cheesy, and flavorful—just like homemade happiness.
Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip with Crackers Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- I always start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, I chop the spinach and artichokes and grate the cheeses so everything is ready. This keeps the process quick and organized.
- In a large bowl, I combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and garlic until smooth. I then fold in the chopped spinach and artichokes, followed by the cheeses. A squeeze of lemon juice brings all the flavors together beautifully.
- I add salt and black pepper to taste. I always taste a tiny bit at this stage—this ensures the flavors are perfectly balanced before baking.
- I pour the mixture into an oven-safe dish and bake for 20 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The aroma while it bakes is irresistible!
- Once out of the oven, I let it cool for a few minutes. Then, I serve it with crackers for dipping. The combination of creamy dip and crispy crackers is perfect.
Notes
- I always squeeze out extra moisture from spinach to prevent a watery dip.
- Using a mix of cheeses adds depth—mozzarella for gooeyness and Parmesan for flavor.
- Letting the dip rest a few minutes after baking makes it easier to scoop.
- If I want extra flavor, I lightly toast the garlic before mixing.
