Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon Recipe

Dive into this luscious spinach artichoke dip enriched with crispy bacon for an appetizer that's sure to win over any crowd. This recipe combines the creamy texture of melted Italian cheese and cream cheese with the savory flavors of garlic, artichoke hearts, and bacon. Topped with a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, this dip takes the classic spinach artichoke to a whole new level.

Photos of Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon Recipe

Most ingredients in this recipe are fairly common and should be readily available at your local supermarket. However, artichoke hearts may not be a staple in everyone's pantry. They can usually be found in the canned vegetable aisle. Also, the Italian cheese blend mentioned is a mix of mozzarella, provolone, romano, and parmesan cheeses. If you can't find a prepackaged blend, feel free to make your own or substitute with just mozzarella.

Key Ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon

Bacon: This will provide a crispy texture and a rich, smoky flavor to the dip.

Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor.

Artichoke hearts: These provide a unique, slightly tangy flavor that balances well with the rich cheeses.

Spinach: A source of fresh, leafy flavor and an excellent way to sneak some greens into your appetizer.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to the dip. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spice.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dip.

Cream cheese: Gives the dip its rich, creamy base.

Italian cheese blend: Provides a melty, cheesy component that's irresistible in any dip.

Sour cream: Adds a touch of tanginess and contributes to the creamy texture of the dip.

One reader, Denny Fultz says:

This spinach artichoke dip with bacon recipe is a game-changer! The combination of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and flavorful artichokes creates an irresistible dip that's perfect for any gathering. The added touch of bacon takes it to the next level. It's a definite crowd-pleaser!

Denny Fultz

Key Techniques for Making Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon

How to cook bacon: Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes until crispy.
How to wilt spinach: Cook the spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the artichokes are warmed through and the spinach has wilted.
How to mix the dip: In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded Italian cheese blend, sour cream, reserved bacon, and spinach-artichoke mixture until thoroughly combined.
How to bake the dip: Transfer the mixture to a 1- to 2-quart baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling around the edges.
How to serve the dip: Sprinkle with reserved bacon and serve with pita chips.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon

Pair snacks and appetizers with this rich spinach and artichoke dip made with Italian cheese blend and cream cheese topped with crisped bacon.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅓lbbacon,(6 slices), chopped
2clovesgarlic,minced
14ozartichoke hearts,drained and chopped
10ozpackage frozen spinach,thawed, drained, and chopped, or 12-oz bunch fresh spinach, finely chopped
¼tspcrushed red pepper flakes
½tspkosher salt (or slightly less table salt)
8ozpackage cream cheese,at room temperature
8ozshredded Italian cheese blend
½cupsour cream

For Serving:

pita chips
tortilla chips
crackers
celery sticks

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Place the chopped bacon in a skillet and cook over medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes until crispy.
Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. Set some of the bacon aside for sprinkling over top the dip.
Add the garlic to the pan and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the artichoke hearts, spinach, red pepper flakes, and salt.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until artichokes are warmed through and the spinach has wilted.
In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, shredded Italian cheese blend, sour cream, reserved bacon, and spinach-artichoke mixture until thoroughly combined.
Transfer the mixture to a 1- to 2-quart baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling around the edges. Let cool slightly, then sprinkle with reserved bacon and serve with pita chips.
This dip is best eaten right away while hot. If it cools a bit and starts to firm up, microwave it for 1 to 2 minutes to melt the cheese again.

Nutrition

Calories: 943.13kcal
Fat: 79.67g
Saturated Fat: 40.46g
Trans Fat: 0.96g
Monounsaturated Fat: 23.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.02g
Carbohydrates: 25.06g
Fiber: 9.92g
Sugar: 6.54g
Protein: 37.25g
Cholesterol: 213.47mg
Sodium: 1345.86mg
Calcium: 800.48mg
Potassium: 1445.65mg
Iron: 5.05mg
Vitamin A: 1002.70µg
Vitamin C: 44.26mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Spinach Artichoke Dip

To ensure your spinach artichoke dip has a creamy and smooth texture, make sure to thoroughly combine the cream cheese, shredded Italian cheese blend, and sour cream before adding in the spinach and artichoke mixture. This will help to evenly distribute the cheeses and prevent any lumps. Additionally, using room temperature cream cheese will make it easier to mix.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dip Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonder: Consider using a single pot or pan for cooking to minimize cleanup time.

Multitask: While the dip is baking, use that time to tidy up the kitchen or prepare other dishes.

Efficient tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors or choppers to expedite the prep work.

Organized workspace: Keep your cooking area tidy and organized to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon Recipe

bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey or tempeh bacon: Smoked turkey or tempeh bacon can provide a similar smoky flavor and texture to the dish, while offering a healthier alternative to traditional bacon.
artichoke hearts - Substitute with chopped hearts of palm: Chopped hearts of palm can provide a similar texture and mild, slightly tangy flavor to the dish, serving as a suitable replacement for artichoke hearts.
frozen spinach - Substitute with fresh spinach: Fresh spinach can be used as a substitute for frozen spinach, providing a vibrant and flavorful alternative to the recipe.
crushed red pepper flakes - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can add a mild heat and smoky flavor similar to crushed red pepper flakes, without the intense spiciness.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt or blended silken tofu: Greek yogurt or blended silken tofu can offer a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to cream cheese, while reducing the overall fat content of the dish.
Italian cheese blend - Substitute with mozzarella and parmesan blend: A combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese can replicate the flavor profile of an Italian cheese blend, providing a rich and melty texture to the dip.
sour cream - Substitute with plain Greek yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier alternative to sour cream, offering a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture to the recipe.

How to Beautifully Present This Dip Recipe

Elevate the plating: When presenting the spinach artichoke dip with bacon, consider using a shallow, wide-rimmed dish to showcase the golden-brown crust and creamy interior. The contrast of textures and colors will be visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley or chives over the dip to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This will enhance the overall presentation and provide a subtle herbal aroma.
Accompany with artisanal bread: Serve the dip alongside slices of warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta. The rustic appearance of the bread will complement the homemade feel of the dish and offer a delightful textural contrast.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by adorning the platter with delicate, colorful edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies. These floral accents will add a sophisticated and visually stunning element to the presentation.
Utilize elegant serving utensils: Opt for sleek and polished serving utensils, such as silver or brushed metal, to elevate the dining experience. The right utensils can enhance the overall aesthetic and create a sense of refinement.
Consider individual ramekins: For a personalized touch, serve the dip in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This presentation adds a sense of intimacy and allows each guest to enjoy their own portion.
Create a charcuterie-inspired platter: Arrange the dip alongside an assortment of charcuterie, such as thinly sliced prosciutto, salami, and coppa. This presentation adds a gourmet touch and provides a variety of flavors to complement the richness of the dip.
Artful drizzling of olive oil: Just before serving, delicately drizzle a high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the dip. The golden sheen of the oil will enhance the visual appeal and add a subtle depth of flavor.
Serve with a variety of dippers: Offer an array of dippable accompaniments, including artisanal crackers, toasted crostini, and crispy lavash. The diverse selection will cater to different preferences and elevate the overall dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spinach Artichoke Dip

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's a versatile tool for cooking bacon and other ingredients.
Paper towels: Paper towels are absorbent sheets used for draining and drying foods, such as bacon, after cooking.
Baking dish: A baking dish is a deep, oven-safe dish used for baking and serving various dishes, including dips like spinach artichoke dip.
Medium bowl: A medium bowl is used for mixing and combining ingredients, such as cream cheese, shredded cheese, and sour cream in this recipe.
Food processor: A food processor is a kitchen appliance used for chopping, pureeing, and blending ingredients. It can be used for processing the artichoke hearts and spinach in this recipe.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is a utensil used for stirring and combining ingredients in a bowl or pan.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting foods. It is used to bake the spinach artichoke dip until it's bubbling and hot.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Spinach Artichoke Dip

Let the spinach artichoke dip cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the dip to an airtight container and cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, transfer the cooled dip to a freezer-safe container, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top for expansion. Cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap, then wrap the entire container in a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat from the refrigerator, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire dip in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the dip overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat in the microwave or oven as described above.
If the dip seems too thick after reheating, you can thin it out by stirring in a little milk, cream, or sour cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
For best results, consume the reheated dip within 1-2 days and do not refreeze previously frozen dip, as this can affect the texture and quality of the dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon

If you have leftover spinach artichoke dip with bacon, the best way to reheat it is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from burning and drying out. Heat the dip for 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through and bubbly around the edges.
Another option is to reheat the spinach artichoke dip in the microwave. Transfer the dip to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the dip moist and prevent it from drying out. Microwave the dip in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through and creamy.
If you want to add a little extra flavor and texture to your leftover spinach artichoke dip, try reheating it on the stovetop. Transfer the dip to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If the dip seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to help thin it out. Once the dip is heated through and creamy, transfer it to a serving bowl and top it with some extra crispy bacon bits.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to reheat the spinach artichoke dip until it's steaming hot throughout. This will help ensure that any bacteria that may have grown during storage are killed off, making the dip safe to eat. Once the dip is heated through, serve it immediately with your favorite dippers, such as pita chips, tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.

Interesting Trivia About Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon

Spinach artichoke dip with bacon is a popular appetizer in the United States. It is believed to have originated in the 1950s at a restaurant in Massachusetts. The dish gained widespread popularity in the 1980s and has since become a staple at parties and gatherings. It's a versatile dish that can be served with various dippers such as pita chips, tortilla chips, crackers, or celery sticks. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors makes it a hit with many people. It's a great dish to bring to potlucks or serve at home gatherings, and it's relatively easy to prepare.

Is Making Spinach Artichoke Dip at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this spinach artichoke dip with bacon recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients, such as bacon, artichoke hearts, and frozen spinach, are reasonably priced and readily available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15-$20, making it an affordable yet indulgent option. Overall, I would rate this recipe a solid 9 out of 10 for its taste, simplicity, and budget-friendly nature.

Is Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spinach artichoke dip with bacon recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High in saturated fat: The recipe includes bacon, cream cheese, and sour cream, all of which are high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
High in sodium: Bacon, cheese, and artichoke hearts are all high in sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems when consumed in excess.
Low in fiber: While the recipe does include spinach and artichoke hearts, the overall fiber content is relatively low compared to the amount of fat and calories.
High in calories: The combination of bacon, cheese, and cream-based ingredients makes this dip calorie-dense, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories.
Replace some or all of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt to lower the fat content and increase the protein.
Increase the amount of spinach and artichoke hearts to boost the fiber content and add more nutrients.
Use low-fat or reduced-fat cheese to decrease the overall fat and calorie content.
Serve the dip with fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber slices instead of or in addition to chips and crackers to increase the nutrient density of the meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Spinach Artichoke Dip

The spinach artichoke dip with bacon recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The addition of bacon adds a smoky and savory element, complementing the creamy richness of the cheese and the earthy flavors of the spinach and artichokes. The dish is well-balanced and versatile, making it a perfect appetizer for gatherings or a cozy night in. The recipe's simplicity and ease of preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion. Enjoy this indulgent and satisfying dip with your favorite dippers for a truly enjoyable culinary experience.

Enhance Your Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Pita Chips: Create a homemade garlic parmesan pita chip to add a savory crunch to the creamy spinach artichoke dip.

Tortilla Chips: Make a spicy chili lime tortilla chip to complement the rich and cheesy flavors of the dip.

Crackers: Bake a batch of rosemary sea salt crackers to add a hint of herbaceousness to the indulgent dip.

Celery Sticks: Prepare a tangy buffalo ranch dip to accompany the crisp and refreshing celery sticks for a balanced and satisfying appetizer.

Similar Dip Recipes to Try Instead of Spinach Artichoke Bacon Dip

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

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These colorful and flavorful vegetable skewers are perfect for a summer BBQ. The combination of fresh veggies, a zesty marinade, and a smoky grill flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This refreshing and healthy dessert is perfect for a light and satisfying treat. The combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds will leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with This Dip

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich Alfredo sauce. Pair it with your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry with thinly sliced beef and a colorful mix of vegetables. Serve it over steamed rice for a delicious and nutritious dinner option.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening in.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry glaze and fresh berries. This decadent dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why trust this Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavors of bacon and artichoke hearts with the nutritious goodness of spinach. The use of Italian cheese blend and cream cheese creates a creamy and indulgent texture, while the addition of sour cream adds a tangy kick. The combination of these high-quality ingredients promises a flavorful and satisfying experience. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to elevate your snacking game.

Want to share your experience making this Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon or have any tips to make it even better? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach instead of frozen. Simply blanch the fresh spinach in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain and chop it before adding it to the recipe.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, bake it according to the recipe instructions.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course! You can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Gruyère, mozzarella, or parmesan would all work well in this recipe.

Can I omit the bacon to make it vegetarian?

Certainly! If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon. You can add a little smoked paprika or liquid smoke to impart a smoky flavor if desired.

Can I freeze the spinach artichoke dip?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dip for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven until it's heated through.