Spinach Artichoke Dip is a popular appetizer served at Applebee’s and many other restaurants. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and the richness of spinach and artichoke make it an irresistible snack. Recreating this classic dish at home is easier than you think. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to make a spinach artichoke dip that tastes just like applebees happy hour times.
Ingredients Needed for Applebee’s-Style Spinach Artichoke Dip
Main Ingredients
To make a spinach artichoke dip like Applebee’s, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Fresh or Frozen Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a more vibrant taste, but frozen spinach works just as well when thawed and drained.
- Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred artichoke hearts are the most convenient and provide that mild, earthy flavor that complements the spinach perfectly.
- Cream Cheese: The base for your dip, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and enhances the creamy consistency.
- Mayonnaise: Contributes to the rich, creamy texture that makes the dip so indulgent.
- Shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheeses: The blend of mozzarella and Parmesan gives the dip a cheesy flavor with a slight sharpness from the Parmesan.
- Garlic and Onion: Fresh garlic and onion give the dip depth and flavor. Use minced garlic or garlic powder and finely chopped onion.
Optional Add-Ons
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of spice, you can add red pepper flakes.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a bit of brightness and freshness to balance the richness.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Spinach Artichoke Dip
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing the spinach and artichokes:
- If using fresh spinach, wash and chop it into small pieces.
- If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s completely thawed and squeezed to remove any excess water.
- Drain and chop the artichoke hearts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Creamy Base
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy. This is the base of your dip and gives it that luxurious texture.
3. Add Seasonings and Flavor
Stir in the minced garlic, chopped onion, and season with salt and pepper. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat in your dip. Stir everything together until well incorporated.
4. Incorporate the Spinach and Artichokes
Fold the prepared spinach and chopped artichokes into the creamy mixture. Ensure that the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the dip. This step adds the hearty flavors that make the dip so satisfying.
5. Add the Cheeses
Now, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses into the mixture. These cheeses will help bind the ingredients together and create the creamy, cheesy texture that’s characteristic of this dip.
6. Bake the Dip
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip mixture into a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes or until it’s bubbling and golden brown on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the dip is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve it warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables like carrot sticks and celery.
Tips for Perfect Spinach Artichoke Dip
Choosing the Best Ingredients
- Opt for high-quality cheeses to enhance the flavor. Fresh mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan provide better taste than pre-shredded versions.
- Marinated artichoke hearts give extra flavor, so try to find those if you can.
Adjusting the Consistency
- For a smoother dip, use a food processor to blend the spinach and artichokes into a finer texture before mixing them into the cream cheese base.
- For a chunkier dip, simply stir the spinach and artichokes into the cream cheese mixture as is.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
Variations and Customizations
Adding Protein
For a heartier version of this dip, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or shrimp to the mixture. This will make the dip more filling and add a savory protein boost.
Spicy Spinach Artichoke Dip
If you prefer a spicy version of this dip, try adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. This will give it a spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Vegan or Dairy-Free Option
For those with dietary restrictions, you can make a dairy-free version of this dip. Use plant-based cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheeses, and opt for vegan mayonnaise as a substitute.
Pairing Suggestions
This spinach artichoke dip pairs perfectly with a variety of foods. Consider serving it with:
- Applebee’s-style cocktails, such as a refreshing Long Island Iced Tea.
- Fresh-cut vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers.
- Tortilla chips, pita chips, or crispy crackers for dipping.
Conclusion
Recreating Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip at home is easy, and it allows you to enjoy this creamy, cheesy appetizer anytime you want. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can serve up a dish that rivals the restaurant version. Don’t forget to experiment with different add-ins and customizations to make it your own. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dip is sure to be a hit.
FAQs
Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh artichokes, but you’ll need to cook and prepare them first, which can be more time-consuming. Canned artichokes are more convenient for this recipe.
How can I make this dip ahead of time?
You can prepare the dip up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed for a quick appetizer.
Can I freeze spinach artichoke dip?
Yes, you can freeze this dip. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly.
What can I serve with spinach artichoke dip?
You can serve it with tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, or fresh veggies like celery, carrots, and cucumber slices for dipping.
