If you’re craving an irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and utterly crowd-pleasing appetizer that basically makes itself, this Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip is about to become your new go-to. Bright spinach, briny artichokes, a medley of cheeses, and just the right touch of garlic meld together into a dip that will have everyone scraping the bowl for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Zero-Fuss Prep: Just toss everything into the crock pot—no fussing, sautéing, or complicated steps required.
- Rich, Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a dreamy, melty dip that’s always a hit.
- Packed with Flavor: Garlic, artichokes, and fresh spinach deliver bold, balanced flavors in every scoop.
- Perfect for Entertaining: The slow cooker keeps it warm and gooey for hours, making it ideal for parties or game day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip lies in its handful of simple, familiar ingredients—each one perfectly balancing richness, tang, and savory goodness. Here’s what you’ll need, and why you shouldn’t skip a single one:
- Fresh spinach (10 oz, roughly chopped): Adds a verdant pop of color, a burst of nutrients, and a fresh leafy flavor that keeps the dip from feeling too heavy.
- Canned artichoke hearts (14 oz, roughly chopped): These offer tender texture and tangy, briny flavor—be sure to drain well for the best consistency.
- Cream cheese (8 oz block, cubed): The star of the show, it melts beautifully for that signature creamy, luscious texture.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brings a welcome tang and lightness, helping the dip stay velvety smooth.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds molten, stretchy cheese pulls and gentle flavor that ties everything together.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Delivers a salty-savory punch, plus delicious golden edges if you let it brown a bit at the end.
- Minced garlic (4 cloves): For aromatic depth and irresistible garlic warmth—don’t be tempted to skip!
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and round out all the flavors.
Variations
One of the best things about Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip is how easy it is to make it your own. Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients or add your personal favorites to truly customize every batch!
- Make it spicy: Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a gentle heat that builds with each bite.
- Go dairy-free: Use plant-based cream cheese, vegan shredded cheese, and your favorite dairy-free sour cream for a dip that’s totally plant-powered but just as decadent.
- Add protein: Mix in cooked, shredded chicken for a heartier, more filling version—perfect for turning dip into an easy dinner.
- Switch the cheese: Try swapping part of the mozzarella for fontina, provolone, or pepper jack to put your own spin on the cheesy flavor and texture.
How to Make Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip
Step 1: Prep and Layer Ingredients
Chop your spinach and artichoke hearts, then add them straight into your small crock pot. Pile on the cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give everything a good initial mix—the slower cooker will do the rest!
Step 2: Let the Crock Pot Work Its Magic
Set the crock pot on LOW for 2 hours. After 1 hour, take off the lid and stir thoroughly; this helps everything melt together evenly and ensures the spinach is distributed throughout. Cover again and let it finish cooking for another hour.
Step 3: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
When the time is up, give the dip a final stir. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot and enjoy right out of the crock pot alongside your favorite dippers!
Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Choose Fresh Over Frozen: Fresh spinach keeps the dip brighter and less watery than frozen, and wilts down perfectly in the slow cooker.
- Don’t Overcook: Two hours on LOW is plenty—longer cook times can make the dip oily or cause dairy to separate.
- Chop Evenly: Roughly chop artichokes and spinach to avoid long strings—this ensures every scoop has a perfect mix.
- Stir Halfway: Give the dip a good stir one hour in for ultra-creamy, evenly melted results.
How to Serve Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra Parmesan or a handful of chopped fresh parsley right before serving to add color and a lovely savory finish. A swirl of olive oil or a bit of red pepper flakes on top is also fantastic for extra flair.
Side Dishes
Serve Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip with crunchy baguette slices, pita chips, breadsticks, crackers, or even sturdy fresh veggies like sliced carrots, celery, or bell peppers. It pairs equally well with grilled chicken, as a spread on sandwiches, or even tucked into an omelet for a serious brunch upgrade!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, try scooping the dip into a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl, or serve individual portions in mini ramekins. If you’re getting festive, transfer it to a cast-iron skillet and pop it under the broiler for a bubbly, golden top. Leftovers? Stuff them into mushrooms or layer them onto flatbread for an easy meal the next day!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Spoon any leftover Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three to four days. Stir before serving to reincorporate any separated liquid—the flavor is just as irresistible on day two!
Freezing
Although you can freeze this dip, the texture of the dairy may change slightly upon thawing—expect it to be a bit softer or more separated. For best results, freeze in individual portions, then thaw in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
Warm the dip in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until creamy, or reheat gently in the crock pot on LOW. A splash of milk or cream helps restore that silky, scoopable consistency.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent the dip from turning watery. You’ll end up with a slightly softer texture, but the flavor will still be delicious.
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What’s the best way to keep Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip warm for a party?
After the dip is finished, turn the crock pot to the WARM setting. Stir occasionally and keep the lid slightly ajar if you want to thicken it. It’ll stay creamy for several hours—great for grazing!
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Can I make Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and cook the dip as directed, cool, and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in the crock pot or microwave until warmed through, stirring to restore a creamy texture.
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How can I make this dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is naturally gluten-free, just double-check your cheese and sour cream labels to be sure. Serve with gluten-free crackers, chips, or veggies for a complete gluten-free appetizer.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip at home, trust me—you’re just one batch away from a new family favorite. Whether it’s game day, a holiday, or a cozy movie night, this creamy classic disappears in a flash! I can’t wait for you to make it and see just how simple and satisfying homemade can be.
Print
Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crock Pot Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy and flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering. The slow cooking process melds the flavors together beautifully, creating a crowd-pleasing dip that pairs perfectly with crackers or chips.
Ingredients
Fresh Spinach:
- 1 10 ounce bag fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Artichoke Hearts:
- 1 14 ounce can artichoke hearts, roughly chopped
Cream Cheese:
- 1 8 ounce block cream cheese, cut into cubes
Sour Cream:
- 1 cup sour cream
Cheeses:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Minced Garlic:
- 4 cloves minced garlic
Salt and Pepper:
- to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients: Place all ingredients in a small crock pot and stir to combine.
- Cook on low: Set the crock pot on LOW and cook for 2 hours.
- Stir halfway: After 1 hour, remove the lid, stir the dip, and then continue cooking for an additional hour.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dip and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Serve the dip warm with crackers or chips.
Notes
- This dip can be kept warm in the crock pot on the WARM setting for serving at parties.
- Feel free to add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
