Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Recipe Overview:

• Name: Spinach Artichoke Dip (like Houston’s)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Recipe Category: Spreads
• Keywords: Spinach, Cheese, Greens, Vegetable, Brunch, < 60 Mins, Oven, Stove Top
• Servings: 6

Nutritional Information per Serving:

• Calories: 509.4
• Total Fat: 46.3g
  • Saturated Fat: 25.1g
• Cholesterol: 132.5mg
• Sodium: 662.4mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13.8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3.6g
  • Sugars: 1.1g
• Protein: 13.7g

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup margarine
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped onions
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup grated fresh Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely diced

Instructions:

1. Prepare Spinach:

   • Steam the fresh spinach until tender. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture using cheesecloth. Ensure the spinach is very dry, then chop finely and set aside.

2. Prepare Sauce:

   • In a heavy saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onions, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Make Roux:

   • Sprinkle flour over the sautéed mixture to create a roux. Stir continuously and cook for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.

4. Add Cream:

   • Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture will thicken as it reaches a boil.

5. Season and Flavor:

   • Once thickened, add lemon juice, Tabasco sauce, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

6. Incorporate Sour Cream and Cheese:

   • Stir in the sour cream until well combined. Then, fold in the chopped spinach, diced artichoke hearts, and grated Monterey Jack cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the spinach artichoke dip immediately while hot and creamy. Optionally, if preparing ahead or reheating leftovers, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese, and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.

8. Optional Notes:

   • Serve the dip with salsa, extra sour cream, and tortilla chips for dipping.

This Spinach Artichoke Dip recipe captures the creamy richness and savory flavors reminiscent of the popular dish from Houston’s restaurant. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, parties, or simply as a delicious snack paired with your favorite dippers. The combination of spinach, artichoke hearts, and cheeses melded together in a creamy base ensures each bite is packed with flavor and texture. Whether enjoyed straight from the stovetop or baked to golden perfection in the oven, this dip is sure to be a hit every time you serve it!