Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for make-ahead entertaining. The slow cooker does all the work, the texture stays perfectly creamy, and the flavors deepen as it cooks.
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Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip: A Creamy, Effortless Party Favorite Made for Sharing
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy, cheesy crock pot spinach artichoke dip made effortlessly in the slow cooker, perfect for parties, game days, and easy entertaining.
Ingredients
- 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
- 14 oz artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Lightly grease the inside of the crock pot.
- Add cream cheese and sour cream to the crock pot.
- Stir in mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add chopped spinach and artichokes and mix until combined.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or HIGH for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once hot and creamy, stir well and keep warm for serving.
- Serve with tortilla chips, bread, or vegetables.
Notes
- Be sure to squeeze all excess moisture from the spinach.
- Fresh spinach can be used if sautéed and drained first.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cream cheese
Creates the rich, smooth base that makes the dip irresistibly creamy.
Sour cream
Adds tanginess and lightens the texture of the dip.
Mayonnaise
Enhances richness and helps create a silky consistency.
Mozzarella cheese
Melts smoothly and gives the dip its signature stretch.
Parmesan cheese
Adds salty, nutty depth and classic spinach artichoke flavor.
Frozen spinach
Provides earthy flavor and texture once thawed and well-drained.
Artichoke hearts
Add mild tang and a tender bite that balances the creaminess.
Garlic
Infuses the dip with savory warmth.
Salt
Enhances and balances all flavors.
Black pepper
Adds gentle warmth without overpowering.
Directions
Begin by thawing the frozen spinach and squeezing out as much moisture as possible to prevent a watery dip. Chop the artichoke hearts into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
In the crock pot, add cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir gently to combine. Add the drained spinach, chopped artichokes, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly distributed.
Cover and cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheeses are fully melted and the dip is hot and creamy throughout. Once smooth, give it a final stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Switch the slow cooker to the warm setting for serving.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
Serves 8–10
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 2–3 hours on low
Total time: about 2 hours 10 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or return it to the slow cooker on low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the texture.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Cheesy Dip
Add additional mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Spicy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Garlic Lover’s Version
Increase the garlic or use roasted garlic for deeper flavor.
Greek Yogurt Swap
Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Bacon Spinach Artichoke Dip
Add crispy chopped bacon for smoky richness.
Creamy Alfredo-Style Dip
Add a small amount of Alfredo sauce for extra indulgence.
Low-Sodium Version
Use reduced-sodium cheeses and season lightly.
Chicken Spinach Artichoke Dip
Stir in cooked shredded chicken for a heartier dip.
Dairy-Free Adaptation
Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
Bread Bowl Serving
Serve the dip inside a hollowed bread bowl for presentation.
FAQs
Do I need to thaw the spinach first?
Yes, thawing and draining prevents excess moisture.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, sauté and chop it first, then drain well.
Should I cook this on high or low?
Low heat is best for smooth, even melting.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, reheat gently before serving.
Why is my dip watery?
Spinach or artichokes may not have been drained well.
What can I serve with this dip?
Chips, bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables work well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger slow cooker and stir occasionally.
Does this dip stay warm for parties?
Yes, the warm setting keeps it perfect for serving.
Can I freeze spinach artichoke dip?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, comforting classic that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for parties, holidays, or casual get-togethers, it stays warm, smooth, and irresistible right in the slow cooker. With its rich texture and timeless flavor, this dip is a guaranteed crowd favorite you’ll find yourself making again and again.
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