Description
This Copycat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings and game days. Combining tender artichoke hearts, fresh spinach, and a blend of creamy cheeses with Alfredo sauce, this dip offers a rich, savory flavor that melts beautifully when baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Dairy
- 16 oz Alfredo sauce (Classico Roasted Garlic recommended)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature (about 70°F)
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 3/4 cup Romano cheese, grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 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
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the dip evenly.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Alfredo sauce. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy, which creates the flavorful base of the dip.
- Add Grated Cheeses and Seasoning: Fold in the freshly grated Parmesan, Romano, and shredded mozzarella cheeses along with the garlic powder, stirring well to evenly incorporate all flavors.
- Incorporate Spinach and Artichokes: Add the drained and chopped artichoke hearts and the thoroughly squeezed spinach to the cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine without breaking up the vegetables too much, maintaining some texture.
- Add Milk for Creaminess: Pour in the half cup of whole milk to loosen the mixture slightly and enhance the dip’s creamy consistency. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the prepared dip into a baking dish, spreading it evenly for consistent cooking.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and the top is lightly golden and melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dip cool slightly before serving. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Notes
- Ensure the spinach is squeezed very dry to avoid a watery dip.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan and Romano cheeses improves melting and flavor significantly over pre-grated varieties.
- Room temperature cream cheese blends more smoothly, preventing lumps.
- For a richer dip, whole milk is preferred, but you may substitute with 2% milk if desired.
- This dip can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
