Spinach Artichoke Dip with Bacon Recipe

Dive into the indulgent world of hot dips with our Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip. This savory blend of crispy bacon, tangy artichoke hearts, and nutritious spinach, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, will have your taste buds singing. It's the perfect appetizer for any gathering, or simply a treat to enjoy on a leisurely afternoon.

skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip recipe

Photos of Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe like bacon, garlic, spinach, cream cheese, sour cream, Greek yogurt, milk, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese are usually widely available. However, marinated artichoke hearts can sometimes be a bit harder to find. They are usually kept in the canned vegetables or pickle aisle in most supermarkets. If you can't find them, you can replace them with canned artichoke hearts and add a bit of your own marinade.

Ingredients for Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Olive oil: Used for its light, delicate flavor to cook and crisp the bacon.

Bacon: Adds a savory, salty crunch that contrasts the creamy dip.

Garlic: Gives the dip a robust flavor foundation.

Spinach: Adds a nutritious, green element that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Artichoke hearts: Adds a unique, tangy flavor and texture.

Cream cheese: The main ingredient of the creamy base.

Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess to the dip.

Greek Yogurt: Adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture.

Milk: Thins the mixture to make it dippable.

Salt and Pepper: Seasons the dip to bring out the flavors.

Mozzarella: Adds a gooey, melty component.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that adds a salty, umami kick.

One reader, Kendal Rhea says:

This skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. It's the perfect appetizer for any gathering. The creamy texture and crispy bacon make it a crowd favorite. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a guaranteed hit!

Kendal Rhea

Techniques Required for Making Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

How to fry bacon: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the bacon, and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

How to mix the dip: In the skillet with the bacon fat, add the garlic, thawed and dried spinach, marinated artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, Greek yogurt, milk, and salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

How to bake the dip: Top the mixture with mozzarella and parmesan cheese, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

How to garnish: Top the baked dip with the reserved crispy bacon before serving.

How To Make Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Upgrade your artichoke dip with the addition of crispy bacon and fresh Spinach that will be ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for chips and nachos.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tspolive oil
½cupbacon,diced
2tspgarlic,minced
9ozfrozen spinach,thawed completely and squeezed dry
9ozjar marinated artichoke hearts,chopped
250gcream cheese,reduced fat if possible
½cupsour cream
½: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>½cupmilk
Salt and pepper,top taste
1½cupsmozzarella,divided
½cupfresh Parmesan cheese,divided

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Heat oil in a 9-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Fry bacon until crispy.
Take the skillet off the heat. Remove half of the bacon for later; set it aside on a plate.
To the bacon in the skillet, add in the garlic, thawed and dried spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, yogurt, milk, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
Mix in 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of parmesan cheese until completely mixed through.
Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan. Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Top with extra crispy bacon.

Nutrition

Calories: 112.29kcal
Fat: 9.67g
Saturated Fat: 4.66g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.56g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.48g
Carbohydrates: 2.50g
Fiber: 0.60g
Sugar: 1.26g
Protein: 4.85g
Cholesterol: 24.45mg
Sodium: 189.33mg
Calcium: 109.13mg
Potassium: 103.35mg
Iron: 0.81mg
Vitamin A: 118.01µg
Vitamin C: 3.10mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

To ensure your spinach doesn't make your dip watery, make sure to thoroughly thaw and dry it before adding to the skillet. You can do this by placing the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel and wringing out the excess moisture. This will keep your dip creamy and rich, rather than thin and runny.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Prep ahead: Prepare the bacon, garlic, and spinach mixture the day before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to make the dip.

Use pre-marinated artichokes: Opt for pre-marinated artichoke hearts to skip the step of marinating them yourself, saving you time and effort.

One-pot cooking: Use a skillet that can go from stovetop to oven to minimize the number of dishes you need to clean up afterward.

Quick thaw: Thaw the spinach quickly by placing it in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes, saving time compared to traditional thawing methods.

Pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese, eliminating the need for grating them yourself.

Substitute Ingredients For Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta is a cured Italian meat with a similar salty and savory flavor to bacon, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic and can be a delicious alternative in this dip.
frozen spinach - Substitute with fresh spinach: Fresh spinach can be used as a substitute for frozen spinach, just ensure to cook it down until wilted before adding to the dip.
marinated artichoke hearts - Substitute with canned artichoke hearts: Canned artichoke hearts can be used as a substitute for marinated ones, just adjust the seasoning to compensate for the lack of marinade.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can provide a lighter and slightly tangy flavor compared to cream cheese, adding a unique twist to the dip.
sour cream - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, offering a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
greek yogurt - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can be used as a substitute for Greek yogurt, providing a creamy and tangy element to the dip.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a subtle tropical flavor and creaminess to the dip, enhancing its richness.
mozzarella - Substitute with provolone: Provolone cheese can be used as a substitute for mozzarella, providing a similar mild and creamy flavor.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese offers a slightly sharper and saltier flavor compared to parmesan, adding a unique twist to the dip.

Presentation Tips for Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Elevate the plating: When presenting the skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a round serving dish to showcase the golden and bubbly dip, and arrange the extra crispy bacon on top in an artful manner.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the presentation.
Pair with artisanal bread: Serve the skillet dip alongside slices of warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread to provide a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Present in individual ramekins: For an upscale touch, consider portioning the dip into individual ramekins before baking. This allows for a more refined and personalized serving presentation.
Accentuate with edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by adorning the plating with delicate and colorful edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to elevate the overall aesthetic appeal.

Essential Tools for Making Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It typically has low sides and a long handle, making it perfect for cooking the spinach bacon artichoke dip recipe.
Olive oil: Olive oil is a staple in many recipes, including this one. It adds a rich, fruity flavor and helps to sauté the ingredients in the skillet.
Bacon: Bacon is used to add a smoky, savory flavor to the dip. It is fried until crispy and then mixed into the dip for a delicious taste and texture.
Garlic: Garlic is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding a pungent and aromatic flavor to the dip.
Food processor: A food processor can be used to quickly and efficiently chop or puree the spinach, artichoke hearts, and other ingredients for the dip.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the cream cheese, sour cream, Greek yogurt, milk, and other ingredients to create the creamy base for the dip.
Cheese grater: A cheese grater is needed to grate the mozzarella and parmesan cheese for topping the dip before baking.
Oven: An oven is used to bake the dip until the cheese is golden and bubbly, creating a delicious, hot appetizer.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Let the spinach bacon 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.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dip:
- Portion the cooled dip into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated dip, microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and bubbly.
If reheating from frozen, thaw the dip overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the above methods. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture if the dip appears slightly separated after thawing.
Serve the reheated spinach artichoke dip with your favorite dippers, such as tortilla chips, crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks, and enjoy!

How To Reheat Leftover Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

To reheat leftover skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dip to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until it's heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the cheese to get bubbly and slightly golden.
For a quicker method, you can reheat the spinach bacon artichoke dip in the microwave. Place the dip in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's evenly heated. This method may take 2-3 minutes, depending on the amount of dip and your microwave's power.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftover dip, try spreading it on slices of bread or baguette, then bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes to create delicious, cheesy crostini. This works particularly well if the dip has thickened in the refrigerator.
For a stovetop method, transfer the artichoke dip to a saucepan and reheat it over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning. If the dip seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or cream to help loosen it up and restore its creamy texture.
If you have a lot of leftover dip, consider portioning it into smaller, oven-safe ramekins before reheating. This way, you can reheat only what you need and keep the rest in the refrigerator for later. Plus, individual servings can be a fun and practical way to enjoy this delicious appetizer.

Interesting Fact About Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

The artichoke, a key ingredient in this recipe, is actually a type of thistle. It is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Artichokes are also known for their potential health benefits, such as improving digestion and liver function.

Is Making Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip at Home Cost-Effective?

This skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as spinach, bacon, and artichoke hearts, are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The addition of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella cheese may increase the cost slightly, but the overall expense is reasonable. The estimated cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20. The rich and flavorful outcome of this dish makes it a worthwhile investment. Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip is a delicious but indulgent treat. While it does contain some healthy ingredients like spinach, artichokes, and Greek yogurt, the overall nutritional profile is quite rich and high in calories, fat, and sodium.

The main concerns are:

High amounts of saturated fat from the bacon, cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses
Significant sodium content from the bacon, marinated artichokes, and cheeses
Relatively low in fiber and nutrients compared to the calorie content

To make this recipe healthier, here are some suggestions:

Reduce the amount of bacon or replace it with a leaner protein like chicken or turkey
Use low-fat versions of cream cheese, sour cream, and milk
Increase the proportion of vegetables, such as adding more spinach or other leafy greens
Serve with whole-grain crackers or vegetable crudités instead of chips
Use less cheese overall, and opt for lower-fat varieties
Experiment with adding other flavorful, low-calorie ingredients like roasted red peppers, herbs, or spices to reduce the need for excessive cheese and bacon

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this dip that still satisfies your cravings for a rich and creamy appetizer.

Editor's Opinion on This Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip Recipe

The skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of bacon adds a savory crunch, while the cream cheese, sour cream, and Greek yogurt create a rich and creamy base. The addition of spinach and artichoke hearts brings a delightful earthy and tangy flavor to the dish. The blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top adds a gooey and indulgent finish. This recipe is perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in. It's a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for more.

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

Garlic Bread: A warm and crispy garlic bread would be the perfect accompaniment to this rich and creamy skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip. The buttery garlic flavor will complement the savory and cheesy dip.

Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, would provide a light and refreshing contrast to the indulgent flavors of the dip. The caramelized edges of the vegetables will add a hint of sweetness to each bite.

Fruit Platter: A refreshing fruit platter featuring a variety of fresh fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and grapes would provide a sweet and juicy contrast to the savory and cheesy dip. The natural sweetness of the fruits will balance out the richness of the dip.

Crostini: Crisp and golden crostini would be the perfect vehicle for scooping up the creamy spinach bacon artichoke dip. The crunchy texture of the crostini will provide a satisfying contrast to the smooth and velvety dip.

Mixed Green Salad: A light and refreshing mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing would provide a refreshing and palate-cleansing accompaniment to the rich and creamy dip. The crisp and vibrant greens will add a burst of freshness to each bite.

Similar Recipes to Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: 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.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with flavor and nutrients. The roasted vegetables add a delicious depth to the quinoa, making it a satisfying meal on its own or a great side dish.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: Indulge in this classic dessert that combines sweet and tart berries with a buttery, crumbly topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for the perfect ending to any meal.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Create a succulent grilled salmon dish with a zesty lemon and herb marinade. The flavors will burst in your mouth with every bite, leaving you craving for more. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber and dill salad for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Beef Stroganoff: Indulge in a rich and creamy beef stroganoff that will warm your soul. Tender strips of beef cooked in a savory mushroom and onion sauce, served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. This classic comfort food will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling completely satisfied.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and oats in a delicious apple crisp. Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip Recipe:

This skillet spinach bacon artichoke dip recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring bacon for a smoky flavor, spinach and artichoke hearts for a burst of freshness, and a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and Greek yogurt for a rich and indulgent texture. The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a gooey, golden-brown crust that's irresistible. Trust the harmonious blend of flavors and textures in this recipe to elevate your entertaining game and leave your guests craving for more.

Have you tried this Skillet Spinach Bacon Artichoke Dip Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made 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 prepare this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dip ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out.

Can I substitute the bacon with something else for a vegetarian version?

Certainly! If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give the dip a smoky flavor without the meat.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Gouda, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses can work well in this recipe.

Can I serve this dip with something other than chips?

Absolutely! This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers such as toasted baguette slices, pita chips, vegetable sticks, or even crackers. Get creative and choose your favorite dippers!