Creamy Baked Artichoke Dip: A Savory Appetizer Delight

Ingredients

  • 2 cans (14 ounces each) of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup of mayonnaise
  • 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1 baguette, sliced and toasted for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix until ingredients are well combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading evenly.
  4. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  5. While the dip is baking, slice the baguette and toast the slices in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until crispy.
  6. Remove dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving with the toasted baguette slices.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Add a cup of cooked spinach to the recipe for a classic twist on the dip.
  • Crab and Artichoke Dip: Fold in 1 cup of cooked crab meat for a flavorful seafood variation.
  • Spicy Artichoke Dip: Add some heat by including chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Herbed Artichoke Dip: Mix in fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives to enhance the flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Artichoke Dip: Use gluten-free bread or crackers for serving to accommodate gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Vegan Artichoke Dip: Substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
  • Whole Wheat Baguette: Replace the regular baguette with a whole wheat version for a healthier option.
  • Spiced Artichoke Dip: Experiment with spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning to add extra flavor.
  • Artichoke and Sun-Dried Tomato Dip: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy and savory variation.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this homemade Artichoke Dip. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to elaborate dinner parties. This dip combines the tender, earthy flavor of artichokes with the richness of mayonnaise and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. A hint of garlic and a sprinkle of dried basil add an extra layer of flavor. After baking, it turns beautifully golden and bubbly, making for an irresistible, warm and creamy dip. Served with toasted slices of baguette, this Artichoke Dip is a comfort food classic that's sure to impress your guests.

Common questions

  1. Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh artichokes for this recipe. However, you will need to cook and chop them before adding them to the dip.
  2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack.
  3. Can I make this dip ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions.
  4. What can I serve with artichoke dip besides baguette slices? Artichoke dip pairs well with various options, including tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks like celery and carrots.
  5. Can I freeze the artichoke dip? It is not recommended to freeze this dip as the texture and consistency may change after thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a short period of time.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the ingredients.
  • Baking Dish - A dish to bake the artichoke dip in.
  • Oven - To preheat and bake the dip.
  • Spatula - For mixing and transferring the dip mixture.
  • Knife - To chop the artichoke hearts and slice the baguette.
  • Cutting Board - To safely chop the artichoke hearts and slice the baguette.

Origin stories

Artichoke dip, a delightful ensemble of creamy and tangy flavors, finds its roots in the United States. An interesting trivia about artichokes is that California is responsible for nearly 100% of the artichoke crop in the United States, with the coastal town of Castroville declaring itself to be the "Artichoke Center of the World". In fact, back in the 1940s, a young woman named Norma Jeane (more famously known as Marilyn Monroe) was crowned Castroville's first Artichoke Queen! So next time you're enjoying this savory dip, remember, you're partaking in a dish that's part of the culinary legacy of the 'Artichoke Center of the World' and was once symbolically ruled over by none other than the legendary Marilyn Monroe.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.