Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe

Get ready to delight your taste buds with these scrumptious spinach artichoke cups. They are deliciously creamy, cheesy, and packed with the goodness of artichoke hearts and spinach. Encased in a crispy wonton wrapper, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, potlucks, or even a fancy dinner at home.

Photos of Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe

All the ingredients for this recipe are easily available in a grocery store. However, keep an eye out for the artichoke hearts which might be shelved in the canned vegetable aisle or pickled foods section. The Italian blend cheese can be found in the dairy section, and if not, a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan works just as well.

Essential Ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Cups

Wonton wrappers: These are thin dough skins used for dumplings and spring rolls. You can find them in the refrigerated section of many supermarkets.

Artichoke hearts: These are the meaty parts of an artichoke and can be bought canned or jarred.

Italian blend cheese: This is a mix of popular Italian cheeses that melts well and has a rich flavor. If unavailable, mix equal parts of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan.

Spinach: This leafy green vegetable is packed with nutrients. Fresh or frozen spinach works for this recipe.

Mayonnaise: This is an emulsion of oil, egg yolk, and vinegar. It adds creaminess to the dish.

Garlic: A common seasoning that adds a distinct flavor.

Red peppers: These add a sweet crunch and a pop of color.

One reader, Janela Elizondo says:

These spinach artichoke cups are a game-changer! The combination of artichoke hearts, spinach, and cheese is simply divine. The crispy wonton cups add the perfect crunch. This recipe is a hit at every gathering and always leaves everyone asking for more. Highly recommended!

Janela Elizondo

Techniques Required for Making Spinach Artichoke Cups

How to preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F before starting the recipe to ensure it reaches the desired temperature for baking.

How to make wonton cups: Place the wonton wrappers in a greased muffin pan and lightly spray them with olive oil. Bake for 5 minutes until they become crispy and golden brown.

How to mix the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the artichoke hearts, Italian blend cheese, spinach, mayonnaise, garlic, and red peppers. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined to create the flavorful filling for the cups.

How to fill the wonton cups: Spoon the prepared artichoke and spinach filling into the baked wonton cups, distributing it evenly among them.

How to bake the spinach artichoke cups: Place the filled wonton cups back in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the edges of the wonton wrappers are golden and crispy.

How to serve: Once baked, remove the spinach artichoke cups from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious appetizers as a delightful addition to any gathering or as a tasty snack.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Cups

Wonton wrappers are filled with a creamy vegetable and cheese filling for these spinach artichoke cups to make delicious bite-size appetizers.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 17 minutes

Total: 22 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12wonton wrappers
14ozartichoke hearts,drained and chopped
1cupItalian blend cheese
10ozspinach,frozen, thawed and drained, chopped
⅓cupmayonnaise
2tspgarlic,minced
¼cupred peppers,chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Add one wonton wrapper to greased muffin pan and spray olive oil spray on top. Bake for 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl, mix artichoke hearts, cheese, spinach, mayo, garlic and peppers until well combined.
Spoon into wonton cups and bake 12 to 14 minutes. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 204.82kcal
Fat: 9.29g
Saturated Fat: 2.98g
Trans Fat: 0.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.23g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.38g
Carbohydrates: 23.35g
Fiber: 2.96g
Sugar: 0.59g
Protein: 7.60g
Cholesterol: 16.60mg
Sodium: 340.86mg
Calcium: 128.29mg
Potassium: 297.22mg
Iron: 2.18mg
Vitamin A: 146.21µg
Vitamin C: 14.62mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Spinach Artichoke Cups

When preparing the spinach for this recipe, make sure to thoroughly wash and dry it to remove any dirt or grit. If you're using fresh spinach, you can easily do this by placing the spinach in a large bowl of water and swishing it around. Then, lift the spinach out of the water, leaving the dirt and grit behind. Repeat this process a few times until the water is clear. For frozen spinach, ensure it's fully thawed and squeeze out any excess water to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe

Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and tools before starting the recipe to save time and avoid last-minute rushes.

Multi-task: While the cups are baking, use that time to prepare the filling to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Use pre-chopped ingredients: Opt for pre-chopped or pre-washed ingredients like spinach and artichoke hearts to cut down on prep time.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe

wonton wrappers - Substitute with phyllo dough: Phyllo dough can be used as a substitute for wonton wrappers in this recipe. It will provide a similar crispy texture and can be cut into squares to fit into muffin tins.
artichoke hearts - Substitute with canned artichoke bottoms: Canned artichoke bottoms can be used as a substitute for artichoke hearts. They have a similar flavor and texture, making them a suitable replacement in the recipe.
Italian blend cheese - Substitute with mozzarella and parmesan blend: A combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese can be used as a substitute for Italian blend cheese. This blend will still provide a rich and creamy flavor to the dish.
spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach in this recipe. It will provide a similar texture and flavor, adding a nutritious twist to the dish.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe. It will still provide creaminess and tanginess to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic. It will provide a milder flavor and can be easily mixed into the other ingredients.
red peppers - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers can be used as a substitute for fresh red peppers. They will add a smoky and sweet flavor to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spinach Artichoke Cups

Oven: Used for baking and roasting dishes.
Muffin pan: Used for baking individual muffins or cupcakes.
Medium bowl: Used for mixing ingredients and preparing the filling.
Olive oil spray: Used for greasing the muffin pan and wonton wrappers.
Spoon: Used for scooping and portioning the filling into the wonton cups.

Storing and Freezing Spinach Artichoke Cups

Allow the spinach artichoke cups to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cups soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled cups in an airtight container lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb any excess moisture. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cups. Place the cooled cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cups to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated cups, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
To reheat frozen cups, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. No need to thaw before reheating.
For best results, consume the spinach artichoke cups within a month of freezing to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Spinach Artichoke Cups

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spinach artichoke cups on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the cups from drying out while reheating. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cups are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The foil will also help keep the wonton wrappers crispy.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can reheat the cups in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cups in the basket, making sure they aren't touching each other. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the cups are heated through and the edges are crispy.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the cups on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until they are heated through. Keep in mind that the wonton wrappers may become slightly soggy in the microwave, but the filling will still be delicious.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the cups while maintaining their crispy texture. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cups on the baking rack. Toast for 5-7 minutes, or until the cups are heated through and the edges are crispy.
For a stovetop method, you can reheat the cups in a skillet. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the cups in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and the edges are crispy. This method will give the cups a slightly different flavor and texture than the original recipe, but it can be a tasty variation.

Interesting Fact About Spinach Artichoke Cups

Wonton wrappers are a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, from savory to sweet dishes. They are commonly used in Asian cuisine for dumplings and spring rolls, but they can also be baked to create crispy cups for appetizers and desserts.

Is Making Spinach Artichoke Cups at Home Cost-Effective?

This spinach artichoke cups recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as artichoke hearts, spinach, and Italian blend cheese, are reasonably priced and readily available. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $15. This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a versatile and budget-friendly option for a family meal. I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its affordability and delicious taste.

Are Spinach Artichoke Cups Healthy?

The spinach artichoke cups recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, the recipe includes nutrient-dense ingredients like spinach and artichoke hearts, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate, while artichokes provide dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The recipe also incorporates red peppers, adding a boost of vitamin C and other beneficial compounds.

However, the recipe also contains ingredients that may be considered less healthy, such as mayonnaise and a significant amount of cheese. These ingredients are high in saturated fat and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and increased risk of heart disease if consumed in excess. Additionally, the wonton wrappers are made from refined flour, which lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a lower-fat variety, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat Italian blend
Replace the mayonnaise with a healthier alternative, such as Greek yogurt or avocado-based spread, to lower the saturated fat content
Use whole wheat wonton wrappers or substitute with lettuce cups for a low-carb, fiber-rich option
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the filling, such as adding more spinach, artichokes, or other nutrient-dense veggies like kale or roasted bell peppers
Experiment with herbs and spices to enhance flavor without relying on excessive amounts of cheese or high-fat ingredients

Editor's Opinion on This Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe

This spinach artichoke cups recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of wonton wrappers as cups adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy mixture of artichoke hearts, spinach, and Italian blend cheese creates a rich and satisfying filling. The addition of garlic and red peppers adds a depth of flavor, making this dish a standout appetizer or snack. The recipe is simple to prepare and yields impressive results, making it a great choice for entertaining or a special treat for yourself. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors in every bite!

Enhance Your Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and parmesan cheese

Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic breadsticks brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with herbs

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing, perfect for balancing out the richness of the spinach artichoke cups

Delicious Alternatives to Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dinner with this flavorful mango salsa. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango complement the juicy chicken perfectly.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa. It's a satisfying and nutritious meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in the sweet and juicy flavors of fresh berries with this classic cobbler. The buttery, golden crust pairs perfectly with the warm, bubbling berries.

Perfect Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Spinach Artichoke Cups

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a flavorful and colorful stir fry by quickly cooking thinly sliced beef with an assortment of crisp vegetables in a savory sauce. Serve it over a steaming bed of rice for a delicious and nutritious dinner option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich, decadent chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Spinach Artichoke Cups Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring fresh spinach and flavorful artichoke hearts. The combination of creamy Italian blend cheese and zesty garlic creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The addition of mayonnaise adds a rich and velvety texture, while the vibrant red peppers provide a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. With these high-quality ingredients, you can trust that this recipe will deliver a delightful and satisfying experience for your taste buds.

Have you tried making these Spinach Artichoke Cups? Share your experience and any variations in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of wrapper for the spinach artichoke cups?

Yes, you can use phyllo dough or puff pastry as an alternative to wonton wrappers for a different texture and flavor.

Can I substitute the Italian blend cheese with a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, parmesan, or any other cheese of your choice to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make the spinach artichoke cups ahead of time and reheat them later?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the cups just before serving. You can also reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy them warm and fresh.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen spinach?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach, but make sure to cook it down before adding it to the filling to remove excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and you can enjoy the delicious spinach artichoke cups without any meat products.