Classic Spinach & Artichoke Dip (5-Min Mix, 15-Min Bake) – Creamy Crowd-Pleaser for Thanksgiving
This creamy, cheesy dip is a Thanksgiving staple that pairs perfectly with toasted baguette slices and complements roasted turkey and mashed potatoes.
This beloved spinach and artichoke dip is a 15-minute miracle that brings comfort and convenience to your holiday table. With its rich, cheesy texture and bold flavors, it’s the perfect make-ahead appetizer that bakes to golden perfection while you prepare the main course. Serve it with warm baguette slices, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing starter that pairs beautifully with Thanksgiving classics like roasted turkey and creamy mashed potatoes.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, this dip is a reliable crowd favorite. Its quick preparation time makes it ideal for last-minute entertaining, and its customizable nature allows you to tailor it to your guests’ preferences. The combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, and gooey cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both hearty and indulgent.
The recipe is designed for efficiency—mix in minutes, bake in 15, and serve hot. It’s also a great way to utilize leftover Thanksgiving ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your holiday menu. The dip’s creamy texture and savory notes make it a perfect partner to Thanksgiving’s traditional dishes, rounding out the meal with a comforting, shareable element.
This recipe is especially popular during the Thanksgiving execution phase when cooks need reliable, no-fuss recipes. The dip’s bold flavor and easy preparation make it a standout appetizer that guests will rave about. Plus, its vibrant green and golden-brown color add visual appeal to your holiday table.
For best results, pair this dip with toasted baguette slices, but it also works well with tortilla chips, pita bread, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. The recipe’s flexibility allows you to experiment with additions like garlic, herbs, or a breadcrumb topping for extra texture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this dip is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried dill
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or shallow baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained artichoke hearts and thawed spinach. Squeeze the spinach thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
- Step 3: Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
This dip comes together in minutes with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy holiday prep.
💰 Budget-Friendly
Uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients that deliver big flavor.
👥 Crowd-Pleaser
Its creamy texture and bold flavors are sure to impress guests of all ages.
🌟 Versatile
Pairs beautifully with baguette slices, tortilla chips, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Classic Spinach & Artichoke Dip
A creamy, cheesy dip that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any gathering.
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 (10 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- - 1 (10 oz) frozen spinach, thaweded and squeezed dry
- - 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- - 1 (8 oz) sour cream
- - 1 cup mayonnaise
- - 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- - 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1 tsp dried dill
- - 1/2 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp black pepper
- - 1/2 cup chopped parsley (optional)
- - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
Preheat oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.
💡 Use non-stick spray for easy cleanup.
Mix ingredients: Combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheeses, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
💡 Ensure spinach is thoroughly drained to avoid a runny dip.
Transfer to dish: Spoon mixture into the prepared dish. Add breadcrumbs if using.
💡 Breadcrumbs add a golden, crispy topping.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley.
💡 Keep an eye on the dip to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Artichoke Hearts
Provide a briny, tangy contrast to the creaminess of the dip. Use marinated artichokes for extra flavor.
Substitutions: Frozen or canned spinach, pickled jalapeños for heat.
Cream Cheese
Adds a rich, tangy base. Use full-fat for best results.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt or ricotta for a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar enhances the savory depth. Freshly grated is ideal.
Substitutions: Gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.
Garlic
Adds aromatic flavor. Adjust to taste.
Substitutions: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp) for convenience.
Pro Tips for Perfect Dip
💡 Prep Ahead
Mix ingredients the night before and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
🌶️ Add Heat
Stir in 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
🧄 Fresh Herbs
Replace dried dill with 1 tbsp fresh dill for a brighter flavor.
🍞 Crispy Topping
Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy, golden finish.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Kick
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Cheesy Twist
Mix in shredded mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheese profile.
Herb-Infused
Stir in chopped fresh basil or thyme for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Veggie Boost
Add diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served with:
- Warm toasted baguette slices for dipping
- Roasted turkey with gravy
- Creamy mashed potatoes for a complete Thanksgiving plate
🍷 Drink pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer to balance the richness.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Mix ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked dip for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My dip is too runny. What did I do wrong?
A: Excess moisture from spinach can cause a runny dip. Ensure spinach is thoroughly drained and squeezed dry.
Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Yes, but fresh spinach requires more thorough cooking to remove excess moisture. Sauté it briefly before adding to the mixture.
Q: How do I prevent the dip from browning too quickly?
A: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil during the first 10 minutes of baking, then remove to allow browning.
Q: Can I make this dip vegan?
A: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese, sour cream with vegan sour cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This classic spinach and artichoke dip is a must-have for any Thanksgiving spread. Its creamy texture, bold flavors, and ease of preparation make it a favorite among both hosts and guests. Whether you’re serving it with baguette slices or using it as a topping, this dip brings comfort and convenience to your holiday table.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this dip as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: anchor with the main Thanksgiving turkey, followed by sides like mashed potatoes, and finish with a decadent dessert like pumpkin pie. This approach ensures your audience gets a full holiday menu they can replicate easily.
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Liam Croft
Nov 18, 2025
Made this classic spinach & artichoke dip Friday night for Thanksgiving. Baked to a golden surface, the creamy mixture smelled of fresh spinach and artichoke hearts, making guests eager. i swapped half the sour cream for Greek yogurt to cut richness, and the dip stayed silky while gaining a subtle tang that lifted the flavor. 4 stars because the dip wowed the crowd, honestly it could use a pinch more heat for extra kick.
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