Artichoke dip is a warm, creamy, and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply indulging at home. It’s rich, cheesy, and loaded with the unique, slightly tangy flavor of artichokes. This classic dip pairs well with crackers, chips, bread, or fresh veggies. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or preparing a holiday spread, this artichoke dip is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish, such as an 8×8-inch dish or a pie dish. This dish will hold the dip as it bakes and creates a golden, bubbly top.
Step 2: Drain and Chop Artichoke Hearts
Drain the artichoke hearts well and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. The artichokes should be finely chopped to ensure they blend evenly throughout the dip.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and creamy. The mayonnaise adds richness, while the sour cream gives the dip a tangy undertone.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the lemon juice, black pepper, salt, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of spice. The combination of cheeses provides the gooey, melty texture that makes this dip irresistible.
Step 5: Fold in the Artichokes
Gently fold the chopped artichokes into the creamy mixture until evenly distributed. Make sure every scoop of dip has a good amount of artichoke pieces for that signature flavor.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking and a uniform golden crust.
Step 7: Bake the Dip
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top is lightly golden. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the center should be hot and gooey.
Step 8: Garnish (Optional)
For a fresh pop of color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top after baking. The parsley adds a hint of brightness that balances the richness of the dip.
Step 9: Serve the Dip
Serve the artichoke dip warm with your choice of dippers. Popular options include toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
Step 10: Customize the Recipe
This recipe is highly versatile. You can add spinach for a spinach-artichoke variation, or mix in cooked bacon bits for extra savory depth. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a unique twist.
Step 11: Make It Ahead
This dip can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the dip, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Let it come to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Step 12: Storing Leftovers
Leftover artichoke dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The dip may thicken as it cools, but a quick stir will bring it back to its creamy consistency.
Conclusion:
Artichoke dip is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. Its creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the unique flavor of artichokes makes it a go-to appetizer for any occasion. Easy to make and always delicious, this dip is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Additional Tips:
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use light mayonnaise.
- For an extra crispy top, sprinkle a bit of panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the dip before baking.
- Serve this dip in a bread bowl for a fun and edible presentation—simply hollow out a round loaf of sourdough and fill it with the dip!
Enjoy your rich, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing Artichoke Dip!
