Name: Artichoke Dip Recipe: Creamy and Savory
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 14 oz can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided); 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Optional: Fresh parsley (extra Parmesan); Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water (crackers)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Artichoke Dip is a creamy, savory appetizer, perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings. This warm, cheesy dip, featuring tender artichoke hearts, rich cream cheese, and nutty Parmesan (without spinach, as requested), delivers bold, comforting flavors with a smooth, bubbly texture. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan, this Artichoke Dip recipe offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any spread. This recipe provides a simple oven-baked method with accessible ingredients, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dip that brings cozy, indulgent charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Artichoke Dip:

1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)

For Serving:

Optional: Fresh parsley, extra Parmesan
Suggested Accompaniments: Tortilla chips, crackers, sliced baguette, carrot sticks
Suggested Pairings: Sparkling water, white wine
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: Mixing bowl, 1-quart baking dish, spatula, can opener, knife, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 1-quart white ceramic baking dish.
Prepare Dip: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, 3/4 cup Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir until smooth. Fold in chopped artichoke hearts. Taste a small spoonful and adjust with more salt, lemon juice, or pepper for a balanced, savory flavor.
Assemble: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan over the top.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve warm in the white ceramic baking dish with tortilla chips, crackers, sliced baguette, or carrot sticks, paired with sparkling water or white wine.

Tips for Better Artichoke Dip

Drain and pat artichokes dry to avoid excess moisture in the dip.
Taste and adjust the seasoning before baking to balance creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
Bake until golden to ensure a bubbly, appealing top.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish to highlight the creamy dip and golden crust.
Make ahead: Assemble dip up to 1 day in advance; refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Stir gently when folding artichokes to maintain texture.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with parsley or Parmesan for a vibrant, inviting pop.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Artichoke Dip: Naturally gluten-free; serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies.
Low-Fat Artichoke Dip: Use reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise; reduce mozzarella to 1/4 cup.
Spicy Artichoke Dip: Increase cayenne to 1/2 tsp or add 1 tbsp chopped jalapeño.
Herbed Artichoke Dip: Add 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley to the mixture.
Vegan Artichoke Dip: Use vegan cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and Parmesan; replace mozzarella with vegan cheese.
Cheesy Artichoke Dip: Add 1/4 cup shredded cheddar for extra cheesiness.
Garlicky Artichoke Dip: Increase garlic to 3 cloves for bold flavor.
Bacon Artichoke Dip: Add 1/4 cup cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky depth (non-vegetarian).

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; they can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwaved until warm.
Unbaked dip can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and bake as directed.
Serve warm for the best creamy texture and rich flavor.
Use as an appetizer for parties or game days.
Pair with sparkling water or white wine to complement the rich, cheesy flavors.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish with garnishes for a vibrant, cozy charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings (1/4 cup each):

Calories: 240 kcal
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 8g
Vitamin A: 10% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 8% Daily Value
Calcium: 15% Daily Value
Iron: 4% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-fat options reduce fat). Moderate in calories; rich in flavor.

Conclusion

This Artichoke Dip recipe delivers a creamy, savory appetizer perfect for parties or game days. It transforms simple ingredients into a comforting favorite. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a go-to. The cheesy, artichoke-filled dip delights with every scoop. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing, indulgent charm.