The Ultimate Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip: Easy Oven & Crockpot Recipe for Any Party

There’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey, and irresistibly cheesy dip to kick off a party or gather friends around the snack table. Among the pantheon of beloved appetizers, Spinach Artichoke Dip stands out as a true crowd-pleaser, consistently being the first dish to disappear. This recipe delivers exactly what you crave: a rich, perfectly creamy texture, an abundance of savory cheeses, and the distinct, delightful flavor and tender bite of artichokes complemented by fresh spinach. It’s a versatile and delicious party favorite that promises to impress every guest, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a special celebration.

What makes this particular hot dip recipe shine is its incredible flexibility. Whether you prefer the quick gratification of oven baking or the hands-off convenience of a slow cooker, this creamy spinach artichoke dip can be prepared to suit your schedule. This adaptability makes it an ideal choice for any event, allowing you to focus on your guests while the dip warms to perfection. If you’re someone who loves the idea of a cheesy artichoke dip but isn’t keen on spinach, consider exploring other options like a classic Hot Artichoke Dip for a delightful twist. However, for those who appreciate the classic combination, prepare to fall in love with this ultimate cheesy spinach artichoke dip.

Why This Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip Is a Must-Try Appetizer

This hot spinach artichoke dip isn’t just another recipe; it’s a testament to convenience and flavor that makes entertaining a breeze. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your appetizer rotation for every gathering:

• Oven or Crockpot Versatility: The ultimate flexibility is built right into this recipe! Once your rich and creamy dip ingredients are mixed, you have the choice of two fantastic cooking methods. Pop it into a preheated oven, and it’ll be gloriously hot and bubbly in just 20-30 minutes, making it perfect for a spontaneous get-together or when you need a quick appetizer. Alternatively, for larger parties, potlucks, or when you want the convenience of keeping the dip warm for an extended period, the crockpot (slow cooker) is your best friend. It gently warms the dip over a couple of hours and can then be set to ‘keep warm,’ ensuring a perfectly heated, delicious dip throughout your entire event. This dual cooking option makes it incredibly adaptable to your party planning needs and schedule.
• Effortless Make-Ahead Prep: Planning a party or special event can be hectic, but this creamy spinach artichoke dip helps streamline your kitchen prep. You can mix all the ingredients together up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover your baking dish or slow cooker insert tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This means one less thing to worry about on the day of your event, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy your guests. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer it to your chosen baking dish or crockpot and heat it as directed. It’s a fantastic way to get ahead!
• Customize It to Your Taste: While this spinach artichoke dip recipe is absolutely perfect as written, it’s also incredibly forgiving and open to customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses; perhaps adding a touch of smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even some pepper jack for a unique flavor and a little heat. You can use fresh spinach if you prefer, or stick with the convenient frozen option (with proper draining). Adjust the spice level with more or fewer red pepper flakes, or even add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick. For a touch of acidity, a squeeze of lemon juice stirred in at the end can brighten the flavors. The beauty of this easy hot dip is that you can truly make it your own, catering to specific tastes and preferences without compromising on its deliciousness.

Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Hot Spinach Artichoke Dip

Crafting this incredible, cheesy dip requires a few essential ingredients that come together harmoniously to create its signature creamy, savory goodness. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving the best possible flavor and texture:

• Cream Cheese: This is the foundational ingredient for our dip’s luxurious, velvety creaminess. For the best results, ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing; this makes blending significantly easier and helps achieve a perfectly smooth base. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for a truly decadent and rich appetizer.
• Sour Cream: Adds a delightful tangy depth and helps achieve that silky-smooth consistency we all love in a good dip. It brilliantly balances the richness of the cream cheese and mayonnaise, ensuring the dip isn’t too heavy and has a pleasing zest.
• Mayonnaise: Contributes to the overall creamy texture and adds a subtle, savory richness that rounds out the flavor profile. Together with softened cream cheese and sour cream, it forms the perfect trifecta for an irresistibly smooth and flavorful base.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts: This is a critical component for infusing maximum flavor into your dip! Always opt for marinated artichoke hearts, which are typically packed in oil and seasoned with various herbs and spices (like garlic, oregano, and red pepper). These deliver a much richer, more complex taste compared to the water-packed varieties. Remember to drain them thoroughly before chopping.
• Spinach: For ultimate convenience, frozen chopped spinach is an excellent choice. It’s pre-chopped and readily available. The most crucial step when using frozen spinach is to thoroughly thaw it and squeeze out *all* excess liquid. Use a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels to really wring out the moisture; this prevents your dip from becoming watery and ensures a concentrated spinach flavor. If you prefer using fresh spinach, see our detailed tips below on how to prepare it effectively.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty, and nutty flavor that beautifully complements the other cheeses and ingredients. Grated Parmesan melts seamlessly into the dip, distributing its savory notes throughout every bite.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The undisputed star for that glorious, stretchy, gooey cheese pull! Shredded mozzarella provides incredible meltability and a mild, milky flavor that binds all the ingredients together into a cohesive, irresistible dip.
• Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is indispensable for adding a pungent, aromatic kick that lifts all the other flavors. Using fresh garlic, rather than garlic powder, provides a vibrant, robust taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice, cutting through the richness of the cheeses without making the dip overtly spicy. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of heat – a little goes a long way.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors of the ingredients. Always taste and adjust to your preference throughout the mixing process.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip

For detailed measurements and the complete printable recipe card, please scroll down.

1. Prepare Your Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. For the creamiest, smoothest base, we highly recommend using an electric mixer (either a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer). This ensures all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, eliminating any lumps and creating a truly velvety texture. If a mixer isn’t available, a sturdy spatula will also work, but you’ll need to exert a bit more effort to achieve that desired smooth consistency.
2. Fold in the Flavorful Fillings: Once your creamy base is ready and lump-free, it’s time to introduce the stars of the show. Gently fold in your finely chopped, thoroughly drained marinated artichoke hearts, the meticulously squeezed thawed spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, the majority of your shredded Mozzarella cheese (remember to reserve a small amount for sprinkling on top if you plan to bake the dip), minced fresh garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Use a sturdy spatula to mix until all ingredients are just combined and evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; a gentle fold ensures optimal texture.
3. Choose Your Cooking Method: Bake or Slow Cook:
   • Oven Method: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the prepared dip mixture evenly into an oven-safe baking dish (an 8×8 inch square dish or a small gratin dish works well). If you reserved some mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it generously over the top for an extra layer of cheesy crispness. Bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is gloriously hot, bubbling around the edges, and the top is lightly golden brown and irresistibly melted.
   • Crockpot (Slow Cooker) Method: Alternatively, for a more hands-off approach, transfer the entire mixed dip into a small crockpot or slow cooker. Heat the dip on the ‘low’ setting for about 2 hours, or until it is thoroughly heated through and bubbling gently. Once hot, switch the crockpot to the ‘warm’ setting to maintain your dip at the perfect serving temperature throughout your event. This method is fantastic for extended gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy warm dip for hours.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Whether you’ve chosen to bake or slow-cook your delicious dip, remove it from the heat and serve immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few more red pepper flakes if desired. Present it with your favorite dippers and watch it disappear!

Expert Tips for the Best Spinach Artichoke Dip Every Time

Achieving a truly exceptional, restaurant-quality spinach artichoke dip is simple with a few insider tricks and considerations. These tips will help you elevate your dip to perfection:

• For Unbeatable Creaminess: To achieve that signature silky-smooth and uniform texture, using an electric mixer (either a handheld mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment) for the initial cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise base is highly recommended. It efficiently breaks down any cream cheese lumps and incorporates air, resulting in an incredibly smooth and velvety dip. While a spatula works, a mixer provides a superior, lump-free foundation.
• Healthier Swaps without Compromise: If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit or prefer a tangier profile, you can successfully substitute plain, full-fat Greek yogurt for some or all of the sour cream and mayonnaise. The taste might shift slightly with Greek yogurt, offering a brighter tang, but it works wonderfully and adds a boost of protein. Ensure you use full-fat Greek yogurt to maintain the creamy texture without becoming too thin.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach – The Preparation is Key:
  • Frozen Spinach: This is often the easiest and most convenient route. Just remember the golden rule: thaw it completely and, most importantly, squeeze out *as much liquid as possible*. Excess moisture is the sworn enemy of a thick, creamy dip, as it can make your dip watery and dilute its flavor. Use a clean kitchen towel, cheesecloth, or several layers of paper towels to really wring it out until it’s almost dry.
  • Fresh Spinach: If you prefer to use fresh spinach, you will need to cook it down first. Sauté a large quantity of fresh spinach (it wilts down significantly) in a pan with a touch of olive oil until completely wilted, or steam it until tender. Once cooked, let it cool sufficiently, then chop it finely. Just like frozen spinach, it’s absolutely crucial to squeeze out all the excess liquid from the cooked fresh spinach before adding it to your dip mixture. You’ll need roughly 10-12 ounces (about 10 cups) of fresh spinach to yield the same amount as 1/2 cup of frozen spinach once cooked and squeezed.
• Mastering the Make-Ahead Advantage: This dip is a fantastic make-ahead appetizer, perfect for reducing stress on party day. Prepare the entire mixture as directed, then transfer it to your baking dish or slow cooker insert. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent air exposure and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply uncover and proceed with baking or slow cooking as per the instructions. This preparation allows for truly stress-free entertaining.
• The Artichoke Secret: Marinated is Key: While canned artichoke hearts (typically packed in water) can be used in a pinch, marinated artichoke hearts are highly preferred for this recipe. They come packed in a flavorful oil blend infused with various herbs and spices, which pre-season the artichokes and infuse them with a much richer, more complex taste. Remember to drain the oil before chopping, but the enhanced flavor profile will remain, making a significant difference in the overall deliciousness of your dip.
• Spice Level Adjustment: The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, which provides a mild, pleasant warmth. If you love a spicier kick, feel free to increase this to 1 full teaspoon or even add a small pinch of cayenne pepper for a more intense heat. For those who prefer a completely mild dip, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes entirely.
• Serving Temperature: While delicious cold (seriously, some people love it this way!), this dip is truly best served warm or hot. The heat helps the cheeses stay perfectly melted and gooey, enhancing the overall experience and providing that comforting, irresistible texture that makes spinach artichoke dip a classic.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip

This hot, creamy spinach artichoke dip is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect companion for a wide variety of dippers. Guests will find themselves reaching for “just one more bite” no matter what you offer – and often, for everything!

• Crostini: Lightly toasted baguette slices offer a delightful crisp crunch and are sturdy enough to scoop up generous portions of this rich, creamy dip. Brush with a little olive oil and garlic before toasting for extra flavor.
• Fritos Scoops: Their unique, curved shape and iconic salty corn crunch make them an ideal choice for getting a substantial, satisfying portion of this creamy dip with every scoop.
• Tortilla Chips: A classic and universally loved choice. Opt for sturdy, restaurant-style tortilla chips or baked versions for the best dipping experience that won’t break under the weight of the dip.
• Assorted Crackers: Offer a variety! From buttery Ritz-style crackers to hearty whole-wheat crackers or even thin, crispy water crackers, they provide a neutral or complementary base that lets the dip’s complex flavors truly shine.
• Fresh Vegetable Sticks: For a lighter, healthier, and refreshing contrast, offer an array of crisp fresh vegetable sticks. Excellent choices include carrot sticks, celery sticks, vibrant cucumber slices, colorful bell pepper strips (red, yellow, orange), or even blanched broccoli florets. The crispness of fresh veggies offers a wonderful textural contrast to the warm, creamy dip.
• Warm Pita Bread or Pita Chips: Warm pita bread, cut into triangles, or crunchy baked pita chips are fantastic for scooping. Their slightly chewy or crispy texture pairs wonderfully with the soft dip.
• Hearty Breads: Chunks of crusty sourdough, a rustic artisan loaf, or warm slices of French bread are excellent for soaking up all that cheesy, garlicky goodness. The robust flavor and texture of these breads stand up well to the rich dip.

Storing and Reheating Your Spinach Artichoke Dip

It’s a rare feat to have leftovers of this incredibly popular dip, as it tends to disappear quickly! However, if you do find yourself with some remaining, don’t let it go to waste. Proper storage ensures you can savor its deliciousness for a few more days.

• Refrigeration: To keep your leftover dip fresh, transfer it promptly into an airtight container. It will maintain its quality and flavor when stored properly in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing the container.
• Reheating Small Portions (Microwave): For a quick and easy snack or individual serving, leftover dip can be conveniently reheated in the microwave. Place your desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can sometimes cause the dip’s creamy texture to separate slightly.
• Reheating Larger Portions (Oven): If you have a more substantial amount of leftover dip, reheating it in the oven is the ideal method to restore its original warmth and gooey texture. Transfer the dip into an oven-safe dish, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying, and bake at 300-325°F (150-160°C) until it’s warmed through and bubbling around the edges. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the quantity of dip being reheated.
• Enjoying it Cold: While most prefer this dip hot, believe it or not, it’s also quite delicious served cold! Once chilled, it develops a firmer, almost spreadable texture, making it a surprisingly tasty cold spread for crackers or bread. Don’t hesitate to try it straight from the fridge if you’re in a hurry or want a different experience.

More Irresistible Appetizer Recipes for Your Next Gathering

If you loved making and serving this easy and delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip, you’re in for a treat! Explore more fantastic appetizer ideas from our collection to round out your party spread and keep your guests delighted:

• Ham and Cheese Roll Ups
• Baked Mexican Cheese Dip
• Cheesy Sausage Wonton Cups
• Smoked Armadillo Eggs
• Avocado Bruschetta
• Chili Cheese Dip
• Mini Tostadas
• Baked Goat Cheese Dip

4 from 3 votes

Spinach Artichoke Dip

By Erin Sellin

This ultimate creamy, cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip is packed with vibrant spinach and tender artichokes. Bake it in the oven for a quick appetizer or use your crockpot to keep it warm for party convenience!

Prep: 10 minutes mins

Cook: 25 minutes mins

Total: 35 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe

Ingredients 

• ▢ 8 oz cream cheese
• ▢ 1/4 cup sour cream
• ▢ 1/4 cup mayo
• ▢ 14 oz marinated artichoke hearts, drained
• ▢ 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and liquid squeezed out
• ▢ 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ▢ 1 1/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions 

• Preheat oven to 350º F.
• Cream together the cream cheese, sour cream and mayo. You can use a spatula, electric mixer or a hand mixer. A mixer will give you a creamier dip.
• Add in your chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, Parmesan cheese, 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. Use a spatula to mix until combined.
• Spread the dip in an oven safe baking dish, sprinkle remaining cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake for about 25 minutes, until it is hot and bubbly.
• Remove and serve immediately.
• Or place in a small crockpot and heat over low for 2 hours. Then switch to warm to keep it hot for your event.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 287kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 955mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Course: Appetizer Recipes

Cuisine: American

Servings: 8

Calories: 287

Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!

I created a fun group on Facebook, and I would love for you to join us! It’s a place where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask questions, and see what’s new at Dinners, Dishes and Desserts (so that you never miss a new recipe)!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU make!

Be sure to follow me on my social media, so you never miss a post!

Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

.