Who doesn’t love a warm, creamy spinach and artichoke dip? Chili’s version has become a classic, and for good reason—it’s the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and savory flavors. Whether we’re hosting friends or craving a restaurant-style appetizer at home, this dip never disappoints.
What makes this recipe so special is its rich, velvety texture paired with the tangy kick of artichokes and the subtle earthiness of spinach. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, we can recreate that signature Chili’s flavor and impress everyone at the table.
Chili’S Spinach And Artichoke Dip Recipe
Recreating Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip at home allows us to enjoy its warm, cheesy richness anytime we desire. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve the perfect dip that tastes just as delicious as the restaurant version.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make this creamy and savory dish:
- 1 cup fresh spinach – chopped finely
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts – drained and diced
- 4 oz cream cheese – softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic – minced finely
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to replicate Chili’s famous spinach and artichoke dip in your own kitchen:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking by the time we mix the ingredients.
- Sauté spinach and garlic: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, toss in the chopped spinach. Stir until it’s wilted but still vibrant green, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Mix the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a whisk or a spatula to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate cheeses: Add the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese to the creamy mix. Stir until evenly combined for that signature cheesy texture.
- Add spinach and artichoke: Fold the sautéed spinach and diced artichokes into the mixture. Stir gently to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Season the dip: Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the mix. Stir again to blend the seasonings evenly.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the dip is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
Serving Tips
For the best experience, serve Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip fresh from the oven with a variety of dippers such as:
| Dipper | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Tortilla Chips | Crunchy and perfect for scooping. |
| Pita Bread | Warm slices or toasted wedges work beautifully. |
| Fresh Vegetables | Try carrots, celery sticks, or bell pepper strips. |
| Crackers | Choose plain or lightly salted varieties. |
This recipe not only brings restaurant-level quality to your table, but also guarantees that every bite is as indulgent as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
To recreate Chili’s iconic Spinach and Artichoke Dip at home, let’s gather the freshest ingredients to deliver that signature creamy, cheesy, and savory flavor. Here’s a breakdown of what we’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (cooked and drained)
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, roughly chopped (drained thoroughly)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
Cheese Blend:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Flavor Boosters:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional for Garnish:
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Tools And Equipment
To successfully recreate Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip, ensuring you have the right Tools And Equipment in place is essential. Here’s everything you’ll need to make the process smooth and efficient:
Essential Tools
- Mixing Bowls (2 sizes): Use one medium-sized bowl for blending the wet ingredients and a smaller bowl for mixing the cheeses.
- Cutting Board: Ideal for chopping or mincing fresh garlic or any other optional garnishes.
- Chef’s Knife: For precise cutting tasks, such as dicing artichoke hearts if needed.
- Box Grater: To freshly grate Parmesan cheese, enhancing the dip’s rich flavor.
- Silicone Spatula: Perfect for blending the creamy ingredients without leaving any waste behind in the bowls.
- Oven-Safe Baking Dish (8×8 inch works well): The key vessel for baking this dip to perfection, ensuring even heating and a golden, bubbly surface.
- Hand Mixer (optional): If you want to achieve an extra-smooth consistency, especially for the cream cheese mixture.
Additional Equipment
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is vital for nailing this recipe, so have these handy for accurate measurements.
- Aluminum Foil: Use it to tent your baking dish if the surface starts browning too quickly.
- Oven Mitts: A must-have to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.
- Serving Dish: Provides a polished presentation for your dip when it’s ready to serve.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon (optional): For squeezing out excess moisture from cooked spinach.
At-a-Glance Equipment Table
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For blending ingredients |
| Cutting Board | Chopping garlic or optional garnishes |
| Chef’s Knife | Slicing and dicing artichoke hearts or others |
| Box Grater | Freshly grating Parmesan for better flavor |
| Silicone Spatula | Combining creamy ingredients effectively |
| Oven-Safe Baking Dish | Baking the dip evenly until golden |
| Hand Mixer (optional) | Making the mixture smoother |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensuring precise measurements |
| Aluminum Foil | Prevents excessive browning during baking |
| Oven Mitts | Handling the hot dish safely |
| Serving Dish | Presenting the dip elegantly |
Having all these tools ready will streamline the preparation and help us recreate the iconic Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip with ease. Each item plays a role, from mixing the rich, creamy ingredients to achieving that perfect golden, bubbly finish we all love.
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of recreating Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip at home. We’ll guide you through a simple yet foolproof method for achieving that creamy, cheesy perfection.
Prep
- Prepare the spinach: If using fresh spinach, blanch it in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then transfer it to an ice bath. Squeeze out excess water and chop finely. You’ll need 2 cups of cooked and drained spinach.
- Drain and chop the artichokes: Thoroughly drain 1 cup of canned artichoke hearts and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Soften the cream cheese: Leave 4 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes or microwave it for 10 seconds to make it easier to mix.
- Grate the cheeses: Shred 1 cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese using a box grater. Set these aside for later use.
- Mince the garlic: Peel and finely mince 2 garlic cloves. Fresh minced garlic enhances the dip’s flavor profile.
Cook
- Prepare the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ½ cup of sour cream, and ¼ cup of mayonnaise. Use a silicone spatula to mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add seasonings and flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to infuse the base with savory notes.
- Incorporate the spinach and artichokes: Gently fold the chopped spinach and artichokes into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Assemble
- Layer the dip: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an oven-safe baking dish and spoon the spinach-artichoke mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dip for that classic golden, bubbly finish.
- Bake to perfection: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling at the edges.
- Optional garnish: For extra flavor and presentation, sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip, the possibilities are endless. This warm and creamy dip pairs perfectly with a variety of dippers, elevating snacking or party spreads to restaurant-quality experiences. Below, we’ve detailed some of our favorite serving suggestions to ensure this dish shines every time you serve it.
1. Perfect Dippers for the Dip
A great dip deserves the best dippers. Here are some tried-and-true options that complement the flavors and textures of this indulgent dish:
- Tortilla Chips: Their salty-crunchy profile pairs beautifully with the creamy dip.
- Pita Bread or Pita Chips: Light, slightly chewy pita bread or its crisp counterpart provides a sturdy base for scooping.
- Crackers: Buttered, salted, or seeded crackers enhance the dip’s richness.
- Fresh Vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, celery sticks, baby carrots, or bell pepper strips are excellent fresh and crunchy options.
- Toasted Baguette Slices: Lightly toasted baguette slices, brushed with olive oil, bring a beautiful artisan quality.
2. Serving Style and Presentation
For a truly memorable presentation, focus on some of these ideas:
- Use a cast iron skillet or an elegant ceramic ramekin to serve the dip warm and bubbly straight from the oven, adding rustic or chic charm.
- Garnish the final dish with extra grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or freshly chopped parsley to visually enhance its appeal.
- Arrange your dippers in a large circular platter, radiating out from the bowl of dip in the center, for a visually appealing communal setup.
3. Pairing with Beverages
Pairing this rich dip with the right drinks can elevate your meal or party. Here are a few tips:
| Beverage Category | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Wines | A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. |
| Beers | Light lagers or wheat beers to balance the richness. |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling water with lemon or lime for a refreshing contrast. |
4. Meal Pairing Ideas
If this dip is not the main event, consider pairing it with complementary dishes for a cohesive menu:
- Grilled Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken skewers or steak bites.
- Fresh Salads: A light, tangy arugula or mixed greens salad balances the richness.
- Pasta Dishes: Offer this dip as a starter for hearty pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo.
5. Hosting Tips
- Keep the dip warm by serving it from a warming tray or using a small slow cooker to maintain its creamy texture during longer gatherings.
- For individual servings, use mini ceramic dishes or ramekins to portion the dip, ensuring everyone has their share.
- Label the dippers or provide a menu card if you’re serving a variety, making it easier for guests to navigate the table.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, we can transform our homemade Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip into a centerpiece for entertaining or a cozy snack night staple.
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
When it comes to Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip, preparation and storage can make all the difference in preserving its creamy, cheesy deliciousness. Making this dip ahead of time or saving leftovers is simple with a few easy tips.
Make-Ahead Preparation
Planning for a party or a cozy family night? You can prepare the dip in advance for convenience:
- Mix the Ingredients: Follow the recipe instructions to combine your spinach, artichokes, cheeses, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Assemble in the Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Smooth the surface with a silicone spatula for an even layer.
- Cover and Store: Use plastic wrap or an airtight lid to cover the dish. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Bake When Ready: Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This avoids uneven heating. Bake according to the recipe for a freshly made flavor.
Storage of Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover dip, no worries! Proper storage keeps the flavors and textures lively:
- Cool Completely: Let the dip cool to room temperature before storing to avoid condensation.
- Transfer to an Airtight Container: Place leftovers in a plastic or glass airtight container.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
| Storage Method | Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3-4 days |
| Freezer (for make-ahead) | Up to 3 months |
Freezing Tips for Longer Storage
You can freeze the unbaked dip to enjoy later:
- Follow the Assembly Steps: Prepare the dip mixture, transfer it to a freezer-safe dish, and smooth the top.
- Cover Tightly: Use two layers of plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label and Date: Clearly mark the dish with the recipe name and freezing date.
- Freeze: Store for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake, thaw the frozen dip in the refrigerator overnight. Bake it at the recommended temperature, adding an extra 5-7 minutes if needed for thorough heating.
Reheating Leftovers
Reheating this dip ensures it tastes as good as fresh. Here’s how:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the dip in an oven-safe bowl or dish, cover with foil, and warm for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly.
- Microwave Method: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully warmed.
- Pro Tip: Add an extra sprinkle of mozzarella or Parmesan before reheating to restore its cheesy charm.
Proper make-ahead and storage strategies not only save time but also help retain the signature creamy texture and rich flavor of Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip.
Conclusion
Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip is more than just a crowd-pleaser; it’s a versatile dish that brings comfort and flavor to any occasion. By following our detailed recipe and tips, you can recreate this restaurant favorite with ease and confidence. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or indulging in a cozy night at home, this dip is sure to impress. So grab your favorite dippers, get creative with garnishes, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip made of?
Chili’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip is made with fresh spinach, canned artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dip that’s perfect for any occasion.
How can I serve Spinach and Artichoke Dip?
You can serve Spinach and Artichoke Dip with tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, fresh vegetables, or toasted baguette slices. For a more elegant presentation, use a cast iron skillet or ramekins and garnish with extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes.
Can I make Spinach and Artichoke Dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time. Assemble it in the baking dish and refrigerate until ready to bake. You can also freeze the unbaked dip for longer storage. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What tools do I need to make this dip at home?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, a cutting board, a chef’s knife, a box grater, a silicone spatula, and an oven-safe baking dish. Measuring cups, aluminum foil, and oven mitts will also be helpful.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach for fresh spinach. Make sure to thaw it completely and drain it well to remove excess water before using it in the recipe.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Spinach and Artichoke Dip?
Reheat leftover dip in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically in about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently for even heating.
How do I store leftover Spinach and Artichoke Dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If freezing, ensure the dip is unbaked, place it in a freezer-safe container, and store it for up to 2 months.
Is there a good alternative to tortilla chips for dipping?
Yes, you can use pita bread, crackers, fresh vegetables like carrots or celery sticks, or toasted baguette slices for dipping. These options complement the creamy dip perfectly.
Can I add extra ingredients to customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add cooked bacon, diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Customize it to suit your taste preferences or to make it unique for your guests.
What beverages pair well with Spinach and Artichoke Dip?
Crisp white wines, light beers, or refreshing non-alcoholic options like sparkling water or lemonade pair wonderfully with Spinach and Artichoke Dip, enhancing the overall dining experience.