This warm and cheesy crockpot spinach artichoke dip is a party favorite! It’s creamy, packed with flavorful spinach and artichokes, and pairs perfectly with crunchy chips or bread.
Making it in a crockpot means you can set it and forget it! I love how easy it is—just throw in all the ingredients and let it warm up. It’s the perfect snack for gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spinach: Frozen chopped spinach works great here—just make sure to drain it well. You can use fresh spinach if you prefer; you’ll need about 1 pound, and you can sauté it first to reduce moisture.
Artichokes: Canned artichoke hearts are a quick option, but if you can find frozen artichokes, they offer more flavor. Just make sure to chop them up nicely!
Cream Cheese: For a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but provides a creamy texture. Non-dairy cream cheese is also available if needed.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream. If you’re looking to cut calories, use low-fat versions of mayonnaise or sour cream without sacrificing too much flavor.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives a nice stretch while Parmesan adds depth. Feel free to swap in other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for different flavors.
How Do You Get the Dip to Be Perfectly Creamy?
The key to a creamy dip is ensuring all ingredients are well mixed and that moisture is kept in check. Start with softened cream cheese, as it blends easier and gives a smooth base.
- Thoroughly drain the spinach to avoid a watery dip.
- Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese until smooth before adding any solids.
- When combining in the crockpot, use a spatula to fold everything gently—this helps maintain texture.
- Cooking on low heat keeps the dip creamy and prevents curdling. Stir occasionally for even heating.
Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little heat
- Sliced baguette, crackers, or chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 2 to 3 hours of cooking time in the crockpot. Just mix, set, and enjoy the creamy goodness! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spinach:
Start by thoroughly draining the excess moisture from the thawed chopped spinach. You can do this by squeezing it in a clean towel or using a colander and pressing down to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is vital to keep the dip from being watery.
2. Chop the Artichokes:
Open the can of artichoke hearts, and drain them well. Chop them into bite-sized pieces so they mix nicely with the other ingredients.
3. Make the Creamy Base:
In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and minced garlic. Use a spatula or electric mixer to combine everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Gently fold in the drained spinach and the chopped artichokes into the creamy mixture. Add the salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little kick, stirring until everything is combined evenly.
5. Cook in the Crockpot:
Transfer the entire spinach and artichoke mixture into your crockpot, spreading it out evenly. Cover with the lid and set it to cook on low for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the dip is hot and bubbly, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy it warm straight from the crockpot, alongside sliced baguette, crackers, or tortilla chips for dipping. It’s sure to be a hit!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy dip perfect for parties or cozy nights! Let the delicious flavors delight your guests or family, and feel free to add your favorite seasonings to customize it!
Can I Use Fresh Spinach Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, you’ll need about 1 pound. Sauté it briefly in a pan to wilt it down before draining and chopping, then follow the rest of the recipe as usual.
How Can I Make This Dip Vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use cashew cream or silken tofu, replace sour cream with vegan yogurt, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. Make sure to choose vegan mayonnaise as well!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply transfer it to the crockpot and heat it on low until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of cream or a little extra cheese if it thickens up during storage.
What Should I Serve with Spinach Artichoke Dip?
This dip goes wonderfully with sliced baguette, crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. You can also serve it with pita bread or pretzel bites for a tasty twist!
