Indulge in Irresistible Copycat Applebee’s Hot Artichoke and Spinach Dip

Are you a fan of the creamy, cheesy goodness of Applebee’s Hot Artichoke and Spinach Dip? Now you can enjoy this delectable appetizer in the comfort of your own home with this easy-to-follow copycat recipe! Packed with flavor from spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of cheeses, this dip is perfect for parties, game nights, or simply indulging in a cozy night in. So let’s dive into the recipe and recreate the magic of Applebee’s right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

1 (10 ounce) box frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped
1 cup shredded parmesan-romano cheese mix
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 ounces prepared alfredo sauce
1 teaspoon minced garlic
4 ounces softened cream cheese
Pepper (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed chopped spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, shredded parmesan-romano cheese mix, shredded mozzarella cheese, alfredo sauce, minced garlic, and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown on top.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Sprinkle with pepper, if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping accompaniments such as tortilla chips, bread slices, or vegetable sticks.

Cook Notes and Variations

For added flavor, you can add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the dip for a spicy kick.
Experiment with different cheese blends such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a unique flavor profile.
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture in a food processor or blender before baking.
Customize the dip by adding cooked and crumbled bacon, diced onions, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

A: Yes, you can use fresh spinach in this recipe. Simply blanch the spinach until wilted, then chop it finely before adding it to the dip mixture.

Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftover dip for future enjoyment. Transfer the cooled dip to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.

Q: Is there a dairy-free version of this dip?

A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this dip by using dairy-free cheese and alfredo sauce alternatives. Look for plant-based options at your local grocery store.

Keto Version and Low Carb Version

For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this dip, you can make the following adjustments:

Replace the alfredo sauce with a keto-friendly cream sauce made from heavy cream, butter, and cream cheese.
Use a combination of keto-friendly cheeses such as mozzarella, cream cheese, and parmesan.
Serve the dip with low-carb dipping options such as celery sticks, cucumber slices, or pork rinds instead of traditional chips or bread.

In conclusion, this Copycat Applebee’s Hot Artichoke and Spinach Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, this creamy, cheesy dip is sure to satisfy. With its easy preparation and delicious flavor, it’s no wonder why this dish is a favorite at Applebee’s restaurants. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of this irresistible dip today. Your taste buds will thank you!