If you’re looking for a delicious appetizer that is sure to delight a crowd, this creamy artichoke spinach dip is the answer! Inspired by the beloved Olive Garden version, it combines fresh artichokes, vibrant spinach, and a melty blend of cheeses for a rich and savory treat. Paired with some grilled bread or crispy crackers, it’s perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family.

This easy recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Artichoke Spinach Dip

• Restaurant-Quality: Enjoy the rich, creamy essence of Olive Garden’s famous appetizer right at home.
• Customizable Pairings: Whether you prefer grilled bread, crackers, or fresh veggies, this dip goes well with anything you choose!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake just before serving for a stress-free experience.
• Super Cheesy: The silky blend of cream cheese, mascarpone, and Parmesan brings a smooth, inviting richness to each bite.

Ingredients

• Fresh Artichokes: The highlight of this recipe, offering a tender, nutty flavor once cooked.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and a subtle earthiness to the dip.
• Lemon: Prevents the artichokes from browning and brightens the overall flavor.
• Cream Cheese & Mascarpone: These cheeses create a silky, creamy texture that’s irresistible.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty note and helps achieve that beautiful golden finish when baked.
• All-Purpose Flour: Ensures a creamy consistency and prevents the dip from separating.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves & Flat-Leaf Parsley: These herbs enhance the flavor profile with their aromatic notes.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add a hint of mild heat; feel free to adjust according to your preference.
• Garlic & Green Onions: Infuse the dip with delicious, savory flavors.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste.

How to Make Olive Garden Artichoke Spinach Dip

Get ready to whip up this delectable dip in just six simple steps!

1. Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare the Artichokes: Trim the stems, remove tough outer leaves, and cut off the sharp tips. Boil them in salted lemon water for about 30 minutes until tender.
3. Cool and Chop: Once cooked, peel away the leaves and remove the fuzzy choke. Chop the tender parts into bite-sized pieces.
4. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cheese bases, flour, Parmesan, herbs, garlic, green onions, spinach, and the chopped artichokes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake: Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, and serve hot with your favorite dippers. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Olive Garden Artichoke Spinach Dip

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dip is a hit:

• Chop the Spinach: Finely chop the spinach to avoid large chunks in the dip. This helps create a smoother texture.
• Roast the Garlic: Roasting garlic brings out a sweeter flavor, elevating your dip. Wrap a garlic clove in foil and roast at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-40 minutes.
• Spray the Baking Dish: Don’t forget to spray your baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Canned Artichokes Work Too: Substitute fresh artichokes with canned or jarred ones for convenience. Just drain and chop them before use.
• Add Extra Cheese: For a gooey texture, mix in some shredded mozzarella or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• Finishing Touches: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or even breadcrumbs for a lovely presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This dip is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:

• Grilled bread or crostini
• Crispy crackers or pita chips
• Fresh vegetable sticks for a wholesome touch

Feel free to get creative with how you enjoy this delicious dip!

How to Store

Here are some tips for storing your leftover dip:

• Make-Ahead: Prepare the dip up to step 4, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it right before serving.
• To Store: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• To Freeze: Store cooled dip in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To Reheat: Bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.