Description
Smoked Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Ingredients:
1 package (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the Smoker:
Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips for a rich smoky flavor.
Mix the Dip:
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in spinach, artichokes, garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Transfer to Dish:
Spread the mixture evenly into a cast iron skillet or baking dish.
Smoke the Dip:
Place the dish in the smoker and smoke for 1 hour until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Serve Hot:
Pair with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results. First, ensure your frozen spinach is thoroughly thawed and squeezed completely dry using a clean kitchen towel to remove all excess moisture. This prevents a watery dip. Next, chop the artichoke hearts into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or sturdy spatula to beat the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until completely smooth and lump-free. This is the base of your dip. Fold in the spinach, artichokes, minced garlic, mozzarella, Parmesan, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed. Transfer the mixture to a well-seasoned cast iron skillet, which retains heat beautifully for serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, smoky dip is incredibly versatile. Serve it straight from the skillet while hot and bubbly. For dipping, offer a variety of options like sturdy tortilla chips, sliced baguette, pita bread, or crisp vegetable crudités such as bell pepper strips, carrot sticks, and celery. For a full spread, pair it with other smoked appetizers like wings or jalapeño poppers. It also makes an excellent topping for baked potatoes or a spread for grilled chicken sandwiches.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Thaw and drain spinach. Chop artichokes. Mix all ingredients until smooth. Spread into a cast-iron skillet. Smoke at 225°F for 1 hour until hot and golden. Serve immediately with your chosen dippers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip in the oven instead? Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly. You will lose the smoky flavor, so consider adding an extra 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Can I use fresh spinach? Absolutely. Use about 10 oz of fresh spinach, wilt it in a pan, then squeeze out all liquid thoroughly before adding to the mix.
What are the best wood chips for smoking this dip? Fruit woods like apple or cherry provide a mild, sweet smoke that complements the dip perfectly without overpowering it. Hickory is also a great choice for a stronger flavor.
Can I prepare the dip ahead of time? You can mix the dip up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before smoking as directed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best dip: Not squeezing enough water from the spinach, which leads to a runny dip. Using cold cream cheese, which creates lumps instead of a smooth base. Over-smoking the dip with a very strong wood like mesquite, which can make it bitter. Opening the smoker too frequently, which causes significant heat loss and extends cooking time.
Conclusion
This Smoked Spinach Artichoke Dip elevates a classic party favorite with incredible depth of flavor. The simple process of smoking transforms the creamy, cheesy blend into a show-stopping appetizer that guests will love. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly smoky, rich, and crowd-pleasing dip every time. It’s the ultimate upgrade for your game day spread or any gathering.