There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, creamy dip, isn’t there? Recently, I hosted a game night with friends and decided to whip up a slow cooker spinach artichoke dip. The delightful aroma of melting cheese, coupled with the savory notes from garlic and artichokes, filled the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. This dip not only brought everyone together around the table but also proved to be the showstopper of the evening. With minimal effort, it satisfied everyone’s cravings, and it’s perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just as a cozy treat while binge-watching your favorite series.
What makes this dip so special? Its rich and creamy texture, combined with the fresh taste of spinach and the heartiness of artichokes, creates an unforgettable flavor experience. Each bite is a delightful blend of the creaminess from the cream cheese and the tanginess from the sour cream and mayonnaise, balanced perfectly with the sharpness of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves dips that can be enjoyed warm with crunchy chips or fresh vegetables.
Why you’ll love this
- Perfectly creamy and rich flavor that everyone enjoys.
- Minimal prep time, just a quick combine-and-cook.
- Great for potlucks or gatherings—feeds a crowd!
- Make-ahead option frees your time on the day of your event.
- Fewer dishes to clean up, thanks to the slow cooker.
“This dip is easy to make and tastes incredible!”
Step-by-step overview
Making this slow cooker spinach artichoke dip is as simple as combining all the ingredients in a slow cooker, mixing it up, and letting it cook until creamy and bubbly. You’ll be stirring in cheese, spinach, and artichokes in no time, and then after a few hours, you’ll have a delicious dip that’s ready to serve.
What you’ll need
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Cream cheese: Provides a rich base for the dip. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach can be substituted for frozen, but ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and drained well.
- Artichokes: Canned varieties are easiest, but roasted fresh artichokes can elevate the flavor.
- Cheese options: Feel free to explore with other cheese varieties like cheddar for additional flavor.
How to make it
To prepare this delicious dip, start by combining the ingredients in your slow cooker. You’ll mix the spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until everything is well blended. After that, add the cheeses, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Let the mixture cook on low for a few hours. As it cooks, the scent of the melted cheese and sautéed garlic will fill your kitchen. Stir it occasionally to ensure even melting and to check the consistency.
Pro Tip: If you prefer a thicker dip, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
You’ll know the dip is ready when it’s steaming hot, the cheeses are thoroughly melted, and the dip is bubbling just slightly on the edges.
Helpful cooking tips
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Use a combination of full-fat and reduced-fat cream cheese for a balance of creaminess and lightness.
- Monitor the cooking closely the last hour to prevent overcooking.
- Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor, but garlic powder is a useful substitute.
Serving suggestions
This slow cooker spinach artichoke dip is best served warm. Pair it with a bowl of crunchy tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan or chopped fresh herbs on top for garnish. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it enhances the flavor as well.
Storage & reheating tips
To store leftovers, let the dip cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or in the slow cooker on low until it’s hot. If it seems thickened, add a splash of milk to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your dip turns out too salty, you can balance it by adding a bit of extra cream cheese or sour cream. Should it become too thick, mix in a little milk or cream gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. If it’s bland, a little extra garlic or some hot sauce can elevate the flavor. If your dip feels greasy, reducing the amount of mayonnaise can help to create a more balanced texture.
Recipe variations
Feel free to customize this dip! You can add sun-dried tomatoes or jalapeños for a kick. For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also swap spinach for kale for a different earthy flavor. Just remember to chop it finely!
Common questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. On the day you want to serve it, just pop the dish in the slow cooker and let it go until warmed through and cheesy.
Are there gluten-free options for dippers?
Absolutely! Serve your spinach artichoke dip with vegetable sticks, rice crackers, or gluten-free chips to keep the dish suitable for guests with gluten sensitivities.
What are some ideal pairings for the dip?
Along with chips and vegetables, this dip pairs well with creamy soups, salads, or served on a toasted baguette as a crostini for a more refined appetizer.
How do I know when my dip is ready?
You’ll want to look for a bubbling dip and melted cheese throughout. The mixture should be warm to the touch and ooze slightly when stirred.
Can I freeze the dip?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dip before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in your slow cooker. The texture may change slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise in the slow cooker.
- Mix until all ingredients are well blended.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- For a thicker dip, uncover the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes.
- The dip is ready when it is steaming hot, the cheeses are thoroughly melted, and bubbling slightly on the edges.
- Serve warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetable sticks.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional Parmesan or fresh herbs on top for garnish.