If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with vibrant flavors from tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and a blend of cheeses melting together into pure perfection. The best part? It all comes together effortlessly in the crockpot, freeing up your kitchen and letting the slow, gentle heat work its magic while you get on with your day. Whether you’re hosting game night, a casual get-together, or just craving some seriously comforting dip, this recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dip lies in its wonderfully simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role—from the creamy base to the fresh vegetables and the melty cheeses—coming together to create a luscious texture and irresistible flavor.
- 24 ounces frozen spinach: Thaw and drain well to avoid excess liquid, giving the dip a perfect consistency.
- 30 ounces artichoke hearts: Quartered and drained; their mild tang adds depth without overpowering.
- ½ cup white onion: Finely diced for a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the dip with savory aroma and warmth.
- 16 ounces cream cheese: Softened brick style creates the creamy, dreamy base this dip needs.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a cool tang and richness to balance the cheeses.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Contributes to a silky texture and enhances flavor depth.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese: Shredded for that sharp, nutty hint that makes this dip special.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese: Shredded for meltiness and mild creaminess.
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella (optional): Adds a beautiful melty topping if you want to elevate the presentation and flavor.
- French baguette: Thinly sliced for crostini, perfect for scooping up every last bit.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: For drizzling on crostini to toast them to golden perfection.
- 2 teaspoons fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors wonderfully.
- 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper: Adds just a touch of heat and complexity.
How to Make Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables and Aromatics
Start by adding your thawed and thoroughly drained spinach, quartered artichoke hearts, diced onion, and minced garlic right into the crockpot. Give them a good stir to mix all those fresh veggies and aromatics together—this builds the flavorful foundation your dip needs.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Ingredients and Cheeses
Next up, toss in your softened cream cheese bricks along with the sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella. Stir everything carefully until all the ingredients form a harmonious, creamy blend. This mix will come to life on slow, gentle heat.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the lid on your crockpot and set it to medium heat. Allow it to cook for about one and a half to two hours. Keep an eye on your dip every 30 minutes or so, giving it a gentle stir to ensure nothing sticks or browns too much on the edges. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbling, warm, and luscious.
Step 4: Toast the Crostini
While the dip cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake until your crostini turn golden and crisp, about 10 to 15 minutes. Set them aside to cool and crunch up perfectly for dipping.
Step 5: Add Fresh Mozzarella Topping (Optional)
If you’re going for that extra cheesy, melty top, tear your fresh mozzarella into pieces and evenly distribute them over the hot dip. Pop the lid back on and cook for another 20-30 minutes, just until the fresh mozzarella melts into gooey, cheesy heaven.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Lower the crockpot heat to warm or low and bring your dip to the table alongside those crispy crostini. The combo is guaranteed to vanish fast as everyone digs in. Trust me, once you try this Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe, it will be a staple in your hosting arsenal.
How to Serve Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese can add a pop of color and flavor that brightens up your dish. For an unexpected twist, try a light drizzle of chili oil or a pinch of smoked paprika to bring some warmth and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs marvelously with crunchy crostini, but don’t be shy about offering veggie sticks like crisp celery, sweet bell pepper strips, or even sturdy pretzels. These sides add texture variety and keep your snack table exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving hot right from the crockpot not only keeps your dip warm but also invites guests to gather around and share the experience. For parties, try hollowing out a rustic bread bowl and scooping the dip into it for a charming edible serving vessel that doubles the yum factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the reheated dip just as delicious as fresh.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dip since the creamy texture can shift once thawed and reheated, sometimes becoming grainy or watery. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
Reheating
To reheat your leftover dip, place it in the microwave on low power and stir every 15 seconds to evenly warm it without overheating. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently in the crockpot on the warm setting until heated through.
FAQs
What type of spinach works best for this recipe?
Frozen spinach works beautifully because it’s convenient, consistent, and easy to drain. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water to keep your dip from turning watery.
Can I use marinated artichoke hearts instead of plain?
It’s best to use plain, not marinated artichokes to avoid altering the flavor and texture balance. Marinated ones can add unexpected acidity and moisture that affect the dip’s consistency.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese beforehand?
Yes, softening the cream cheese helps it blend seamlessly with the other ingredients, ensuring a smooth and creamy dip without lumps.
What crockpot size is recommended for this recipe?
A crockpot between 2.5 to 4 quarts is ideal. It provides enough space for the ingredients to warm evenly without being too crowded or too sparse.
Can I make this dip vegan or dairy-free?
While this recipe relies heavily on cheeses and dairy for its signature creaminess, you can experiment with plant-based cream cheese, vegan sour cream, and dairy-free cheeses. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ from the classic version.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm welcome every time you dip in. It’s effortless, crowd-friendly, and bursting with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a newbie, give this recipe a go—it’s an uncookbook staple waiting to happen!
PrintCrockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
This creamy and flavorful Crockpot Spinach Artichoke Dip is the perfect appetizer for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers. Made with thawed spinach, tender artichoke hearts, and a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheeses, this dip is slow-cooked to melty perfection. Served warm alongside crispy homemade crostini, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 24 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 30 ounces artichoke hearts, quartered and drained (not marinated)
- ½ cup white onion, diced (or yellow onion)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened (use bricks)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded (or Parmigiano Reggiano)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, optional
Crostini
- 1 French baguette, cut into half-inch slices
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
- Combine vegetables: Add the thawed and drained spinach, drained artichoke hearts, diced onion, and minced garlic into the crockpot. Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined.
- Add dairy and cheese: Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella to the crockpot. Stir thoroughly to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Cook the dip: Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on medium heat for about 1½ to 2 hours. Cook until the dip is warm, the cheese has melted, and the mixture is bubbly. Stir every 30 minutes to prevent burning on the bottom or sides.
- Prepare crostini: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the crostini are golden brown and lightly toasted. Set aside to cool.
- Add fresh mozzarella (optional): Once the dip is hot, tear the fresh mozzarella and evenly distribute it over the surface of the dip. Cover with the lid again and cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the fresh mozzarella has melted.
- Serve: Turn the crockpot heat to warm or low and serve the spinach artichoke dip alongside the crostini. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Storage Information: This dip can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat in the crockpot or microwave before serving.
- Leftovers: Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store crostini in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the texture of the dip may alter upon thawing.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave on low heat, stirring every 15 seconds until heated through.
- Crockpot Size: A 2.5 to 4 quart crockpot is ideal for this recipe.
