This warm and creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a Christmas favorite—perfect for holiday gatherings, appetizer tables, and cozy winter nights by the tree. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of savory flavor, making it one of those snacks that disappear almost instantly at parties. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas Eve get-together or preparing a festive movie-night spread, this dip delivers comfort and crowd-pleasing goodness in every bite. Serve it with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or colorful holiday veggies for a beautiful and delicious seasonal appetizer.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Yield: About 3 cups
Ingredients
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional add-ins:
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (for brightness)
- A pinch of smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor)
Directions
- Preheat your oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Mix the base: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vegetables: Fold in the spinach and chopped artichoke hearts until evenly distributed.
- Fill the pan: Spread the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Optional finishing step: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a lightly crisp, browned top.
- Serve warm: Pair with tortilla chips, warm baguette slices, pita wedges, crackers, or festive Christmas veggies like red bell pepper strips and broccoli florets.
Tips for Success
- Dry the spinach well: Excess water can make the dip runny. Squeeze spinach in a clean kitchen towel to remove moisture.
- Soften your cream cheese: This helps the mixture blend smoothly.
- Make ahead: Mix everything up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Bake right before serving.
- Slow cooker option: Cook on Low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serving idea: For a holiday touch, serve the dip inside a hollowed-out round bread bowl surrounded by colorful veggies to create a festive wreath presentation.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 230
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 430mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g
Conclusion
This Spinach and Artichoke Dip is an effortless yet elegant Christmas appetizer that brings warmth and flavor to any gathering. With its creamy texture, cheesy richness, and festive presentation options, it’s the kind of dish guests return to again and again. Whether paired with breads, crackers, or a colorful veggie platter, it’s guaranteed to earn a spot on your annual holiday menu. Enjoy sharing this comforting seasonal favorite with family and friends!
