Are you looking for a delicious and easy appetizer or side dish that will impress your guests? Look no further than Ina Garten's famous Spinach and Artichoke Dip! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game nights, or a cozy night in. It's creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor – the ultimate comfort food. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick and healthy meal option.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let the garlic brown.
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Combine the ingredients: Add the thawed and squeezed spinach and chopped artichoke hearts to the skillet. Stir to combine. Remove from heat.
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Mix in the creamy base: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Add the spinach and artichoke mixture and stir until well combined.
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Bake to perfection: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
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Serve and enjoy: Let the dip cool slightly before serving. It's delicious served with tortilla chips, crusty bread, or vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use crème fraîche instead of sour cream.
- Add some heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Ensure your mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese are vegetarian-friendly.
- Prepare ahead: The dip can be assembled a day ahead of time and refrigerated. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Serving suggestions: This dip is fantastic with pita bread, crackers, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250 Fat: 18g Protein: 5g Carbohydrates: 15g
This recipe is a great example of delicious and easy recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It's a healthy meal option that's packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a wonderful addition to your homemade cooking repertoire. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly lives up to that! Try it out and see for yourself why it's a favorite among many home cooks.