Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip (Crockpot Style)
Enjoy the rich and delightful flavors of a classic spinach artichoke dip, now made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, this warm and creamy dip is packed with cheese, spinach, and artichoke hearts. Serve it directly from the slow cooker with an assortment of bread, crackers, or veggie sticks for the perfect appetizer. Your guests will love the comforting texture and bold flavors, and you'll love how easy it is to prepare!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
artichoke hearts
14 ounces (drained & chopped)
frozen spinach
1 pound (thawed & chopped)
cream cheese
16 ounces (cubed)
Monterey Jack cheese
2.5 cups (cubed)
mozzarella cheese
2.5 cups (cubed)
garlic cloves
3 cloves (minced)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Instructions
1
Prepare all ingredients: Cube the cream cheese, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella cheese. Chop the drained artichoke hearts and thawed spinach.
2
Add the cubed cheeses to the slow cooker.
3
Layer the chopped artichokes and spinach on top of the cheese.
4
Sprinkle in the minced garlic and black pepper.
5
Set the slow cooker on the high setting and cover.
6
Cook for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until all the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is thoroughly combined.
7
Once fully heated and blended, reduce the setting to 'warm' to maintain the ideal serving temperature.
8
Serve directly from the slow cooker with an assortment of crackers, bread, or veggie sticks.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip (Crockpot Style)?
It is a rich and delightful warm appetizer packed with cheese, spinach, and artichoke hearts, designed for effortless preparation in a slow cooker.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 12 servings, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
What is the recommended cooking time for this dip?
The dip should be cooked on the high setting for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for a blend of cream cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
How should I prepare the cheese before adding it to the slow cooker?
The cream cheese, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella should all be cubed to ensure even melting.
Do I need to thaw the spinach before using it?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 1 pound of frozen spinach that has been thawed and chopped.
How should the artichoke hearts be prepared?
You should use 14 ounces of artichoke hearts that have been drained and chopped.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe calls for 3 cloves of minced garlic.
What seasoning is used for the dip?
The dip is seasoned with 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, which can be adjusted to your personal taste.
In what order should I add ingredients to the slow cooker?
Start by adding the cubed cheeses, then layer the chopped artichokes and spinach on top, and finally sprinkle in the garlic and pepper.
Do I need to stir the dip while it is cooking?
Yes, you should stir the mixture occasionally until all the cheese is completely melted and the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
How do I keep the dip warm during a party?
Once the dip is fully heated and blended, reduce the slow cooker setting to 'warm' to maintain the ideal serving temperature.
What are the best items to serve with this dip?
It is best served with an assortment of bread, crackers, or fresh veggie sticks.
Is this recipe suitable for easy entertaining?
Yes, it is specifically described as an easy-to-prepare appetizer perfect for casual gatherings.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
While the recipe calls for frozen, you can use fresh spinach if you sauté and drain it thoroughly first to prevent the dip from becoming too watery.
Is this dip vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredients list provided, this recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
How should I store leftover dip?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I reheat this dip?
Yes, you can reheat leftovers in the microwave or back in the slow cooker until they are warm and creamy again.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep all the ingredients (cubing and chopping) in advance and store them in the fridge until you are ready to start the slow cooker.
What size slow cooker is best for this recipe?
A standard 2 to 4-quart slow cooker works well for this recipe to ensure the ingredients are layered properly.
How can I add more spice to this dip?
You can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños along with the garlic for an extra kick.
Can I add protein like chicken or crab to this recipe?
Yes, cooked shredded chicken or lump crab meat can be stirred in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Is this dip gluten-free?
The ingredients themselves are gluten-free, but you must ensure you serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetables to keep the snack gluten-free.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
You can use low-fat cream cheese, though the final texture may be slightly less rich and creamy than the full-fat version.
Can I use marinated artichoke hearts?
Yes, marinated artichoke hearts can be used for extra flavor, just be sure to drain them well before chopping.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Avoid overcooking beyond the 2-hour mark on high and ensure you stir occasionally to keep the edges from scorching.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients if you use a larger 6-quart slow cooker.
What is the texture of this dip?
The dip has a thick, comforting, and creamy texture with chunky bits of artichoke and spinach throughout.
Do I need to pre-cook any of the ingredients?
No pre-cooking is required; simply cube and chop the raw and thawed ingredients and add them directly to the crockpot.
Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing is not recommended as the dairy components (cream cheese and mozzarella) may separate or become grainy upon thawing.