Alton Brown Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy appetizer, Alton Brown’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a winner for gatherings and family appetizers alike.

The combination of creamy spinach and artichoke hearts, blended with a rich mix of cheeses, makes this dip irresistible!

Heat a cast iron skillet to infuse smoky flavors into the artichokes and spinach for a perfect balance of texture and taste.

Don’t forget to broil the dip at the end for that coveted bubbly and crispy top layer!

How to Make Alton Brown Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Ingredients

• 1 bag Spinach
• 1 can Artichokes (14 oz., chopped)
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Red Pepper Flakes
• 1 cup Cream Cheese
• 1 clove Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
• 1/4 cup White Wine

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Boil spinach and artichokes together in 1 cup of water until tender.

Drain the water and discard it.

Step 2:

Heat a cast iron skillet over high heat for about 2 minutes.

Add olive oil, followed by the chopped artichokes and half the salt.

Stir well and then press down with a spoon.

Cook for 3 minutes without stirring.

Step 3:

After 3 minutes, stir, press again, and cook until browned.

This should take another 3 minutes.

Step 4:

Add in the red pepper flakes and minced garlic.

Stir frequently for about 1 minute.

Step 5:

Incorporate the boiled spinach and the remaining salt.

Simmer and stir occasionally for about 1 minute.

Add white wine and continue cooking until the wine is nearly dry.

Turn off the heat and whisk in the cream cheese until smooth.

Step 6:

Mix in the Parmesan and Mozzarella cheese until melted and well combined.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients are Key

Use fresh spinach and good quality artichokes to enhance the flavor and texture.

Don’t Rush the Browning

Allow the artichokes to brown properly for richer flavors.

Balance the Heat

Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preference for spiciness.

Cream Cheese Tips

To soften cream cheese quickly, microwave it for around 1 minute.

Serve Immediately

This dip is best served hot, so keep it warm until ready to eat!

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish!

What to Serve with Alton Brown Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Classic Chips

Tortilla chips are a traditional and perfect pairing.

Their crispy texture complements the creamy dip wonderfully.

Fresh Veggies

Serve with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell pepper slices.

These add a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the rich dip.

Crusty Bread

A sliced baguette or sourdough provides a hearty option.

The bread’s firm texture makes it ideal for scooping up the dip.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries add a unique, sweet twist to the savory dip.

Their slight sweetness balances well with the dip’s tangy flavors.

Stuffed Mini Peppers

Stuffed mini peppers with a mix of cheese and herbs can surprise your guests.

They offer a delightful burst of flavor and a vibrant presentation.

Pita Chips

Pita chips are a crunchy and slightly different alternative to tortilla chips.

Their mild flavor enhances the dip without overpowering it.

Variations and Substitutions

Switch Up the Greens

You can switch things up by using kale instead of spinach.

This adds a slightly different texture and flavor.

Marinated Artichokes for Extra Zing

Try using marinated artichokes for extra zing!

Change the Cheese

Change the cheese to suit your taste.

Mozzarella or Gruyère are fantastic choices.

Add Some Heat

Consider adding some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a smoky depth.

Lighten It Up

I also like to use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream sometimes.

This makes the dip lighter and a bit tangier.

Vegan Version

For a vegan version, use cashew cream and nutritional yeast.

You’ll get that creamy and cheesy experience without dairy!

How to Store Leftover Alton Brown Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Put any leftover dip into an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Refrigerate the container immediately after your meal to prevent bacterial growth.

The dip should keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Portioning Out

If you have a large amount left, consider portioning it out into smaller containers.

This makes it easier to grab a quick snack later on.

You can also label the containers with the date to help keep track of freshness.

Avoid Freezing

Freezing the dip is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the spinach and artichokes.

The creamy base may also separate upon thawing.

It’s best enjoyed fresh or within the 3-4 day refrigeration window.

Using Resealable Bags

For an alternative storage method, you can also use resealable plastic bags.

Simply fill the bag with the dip, squeeze out the air, and seal tight.

Lay the bag flat in the fridge to save space and keep it fresh.

Storing your leftover Alton Brown Spinach and Artichoke Dip properly ensures you can enjoy it to its fullest!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking Spinach and Artichokes

When boiling spinach and artichokes, avoid overcooking them.

One to two minutes should be enough to keep them tender but not mushy.

Overcooked vegetables can become too soft, losing their texture and flavor.

Not Draining Properly

Make sure to thoroughly drain the spinach after boiling.

Excess water can make the dip runny and affect the consistency.

You can use a clean towel to squeeze out any remaining moisture.

Skipping the Browning Step

Don’t skip the step of browning the artichokes in the skillet.

This adds a deeper flavor to the dip, making it richer and tastier.

Press down with a spatula and allow the artichokes to brown for a few minutes before stirring.