If you’ve ever found yourself craving that irresistible gooey, creamy dip at your local restaurant, you’re in for a treat. This Mouthwatering Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe perfectly recreates that beloved appetizer, blending tender artichoke hearts, vibrant spinach, and a luscious mix of cheeses and garlic to deliver a warm, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s an ideal snack for sharing with friends or enjoying as a savory indulgence while relaxing at home. Trust me, once you try this, you won’t want to order it anywhere else!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this dip lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor balance — creamy, cheesy, and just garlicky enough to keep you coming back for more.
- 16 oz Alfredo sauce: I love using Classico Roasted Garlic Alfredo for its rich flavor that adds depth without extra effort.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): This gives the dip its velvety, smooth base; be sure it’s at room temperature for the best mix.
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan sharpens the flavor and enhances the melty goodness.
- 3/4 cup Romano cheese: Romano adds a bit of tang and saltiness for complexity.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese: For that signature stringy, melty texture everyone craves.
- 30 oz artichoke hearts (drained and chopped): These provide a tender, slightly nutty flavor and great bite-sized texture.
- 20 oz spinach (thawed and squeezed dry): Removing moisture from the spinach is key to avoiding a watery dip.
- 1/2 cup milk: I use whole milk for richness, balancing everything perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Just enough to boost the garlic undertones without overpowering.
How to Make Mouthwatering Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by thawing your spinach thoroughly, then squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Chop those artichoke hearts into roughly half-inch pieces so they blend beautifully without overpowering each bite. Softening the cream cheese ahead of time ensures a silky texture in your dip.
Step 2: Mix the Cheeses and Sauces
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, softened cream cheese, Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella cheeses. Stir them together until you have a creamy, uniform blend. This cheesy base is what gives the dip its luscious body and bold flavor.
Step 3: Add Spinach, Artichokes, and Garlic
Fold in the drained, chopped artichoke hearts and thoroughly dried spinach. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and gently mix everything together so each ingredient gets evenly distributed for that perfect every-spoonful experience.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency and Seasoning
Slowly pour in the milk to loosen the dip just a touch, making it easy to scoop and spread when warm. Give the mixture a final stir, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Remember, a little extra garlic powder or cheese can always be added to suit your preference.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Transfer your dip to a baking dish and pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for about 20 minutes or until it’s hot and bubbly with a lightly browned top. This step marries all the flavors together into one irresistible dish that melts hearts and hunger alike.
How to Serve Mouthwatering Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan turns this dip into a visually appetizing masterpiece. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can also lend a subtle kick for those who love a little heat.
Side Dishes
This dip shines brightest when paired with crunchy toasted baguette slices, classic pita chips, or even fresh vegetable sticks like crisp carrots and celery. Each scoop delivers a perfect crunch-to-creamy ratio that’s utterly addictive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl or alongside a charcuterie board with cured meats and olives. Small ramekins also work great for individual servings at parties, ensuring everyone gets their own share of delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover dip to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a second round without the hassle of starting fresh!
Freezing
This dip freezes well for up to 2 months. Freeze it flat in a zip-top bag or airtight container, then thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. While the texture may be slightly different, the flavor remains just as amazing.
Reheating
When ready to eat, reheat your dip gently in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, about 15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot and creamy. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and squeeze out as much moisture from fresh spinach as possible before adding it to avoid a watery dip.
Is there a substitute for Alfredo sauce?
Yes, you can make a quick homemade Alfredo or use a creamy white cheese sauce, but the Classico Roasted Garlic Alfredo adds a uniquely delicious flavor that’s tough to beat.
Can I make this dip vegan or dairy-free?
It’s possible by swapping cheeses with plant-based alternatives and using a vegan Alfredo sauce, but the classic dairy mix is key to recreating the authentic Mouthwatering Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe taste.
How spicy is the dip? Can I add heat?
This dip is mild by default, perfect for all palates. You can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you love a spicy kick.
What’s the best way to serve this dip at a party?
Warm and bubbly out of the oven is best! Serve it with plenty of dippers and keep extra warming trays or a slow cooker on hand to maintain that perfect temperature throughout the event.
Final Thoughts
This Mouthwatering Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe is honestly one of my all-time favorites for entertaining or just treating yourself after a long day. Its creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the fresh spinach and artichokes is the ultimate comfort food. Give it a try—I’m confident it’ll become your go-to dip, too!
Print
Mouthwatering Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mouthwatering Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Made with a blend of Alfredo sauce, cream cheese, parmesan, romano, mozzarella, artichoke hearts, and spinach, this dip offers a rich and flavorful experience that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Dairy & Sauces
- 16 oz Alfredo sauce (Classico Roasted Garlic preferred)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature, about 70°F)
- 3/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup romano cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk (Borden recommended)
Vegetables
- 30 oz artichoke hearts (drained and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 20 oz frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed very dry)
Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by softening the cream cheese to room temperature for smooth blending. Ensure the spinach is fully thawed and squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture in the dip. Drain and chop the artichoke hearts into 1/2-inch pieces for uniform texture.
- Combine Cheeses and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, softened cream cheese, freshly grated parmesan, romano, and shredded mozzarella. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, creamy base forms.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and thoroughly dried spinach into the cheese mixture. Add the garlic powder and milk, mixing well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Dip: Transfer the mixture to a suitable baking dish or skillet. Heat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until all the cheeses melt and the dip heats through evenly. Alternatively, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly if preferred.
- Serve Warm: Once heated, serve the dip warm with your choice of dippers such as tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is thoroughly squeezed dry to prevent a watery dip.
- Using freshly grated parmesan improves melt and flavor over pre-grated.
- For a richer dip, use whole milk instead of lower-fat alternatives.
- This dip can be baked or cooked on the stovetop depending on preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
