Spinach and Artichoke Dip

4 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: 25 m Total: 35 m Beginner
5.0/5 (4)
An appetizer to soothe the Cajun beast in us all with creamy spinach, artichoke hearts, and melted cheese. Great for LSU, Saints and UL tailgate parties!

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 2 boxes Green Giant creamed spinach
  • 1 can artichoke hearts, quartered and drained
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced fine
  • 8 ounces sour cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until onion is transparent, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, soften cream cheese (microwave 20-30 seconds if needed for easier mixing). Add the sautéed onion mixture, creamed spinach, artichoke hearts, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Blend completely until well combined.
  4. Pour mixture into a baking dish and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot with chips, salsa, and sour cream.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my dip watery?

A: Make sure to drain the artichoke hearts completely and squeeze out any excess liquid. If using frozen spinach instead of creamed spinach, you'll definitely need to squeeze it very dry before adding.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Mix all ingredients except the Monterey Jack topping, cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, top with cheese and bake, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it's starting cold.

Tips and Techniques

Let the cream cheese come to room temperature or soften it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make mixing much easier. For extra Cajun kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Monterey Jack cheese: mozzarella or provolone cheese
  • creamed spinach: 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, mixed with 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • fresh garlic: 1 tsp garlic powder
  • sour cream: Greek yogurt

Equipment Needed

  • medium skillet for sautéing
  • large mixing bowl
  • baking dish (8x8 or similar)
  • microwave (optional, for softening cream cheese)

Historical Context

While spinach and artichoke dip has roots in American restaurant culture, it’s been enthusiastically adopted by Louisiana tailgaters and party hosts who appreciate its make-ahead convenience and crowd-pleasing appeal.