This Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip recipe is sure to be hit at your next game day! And best of all, nobody will realize it's a slightly better-for-you-version of the original since this version has all the flavor and cheesy, creamy goodness we love about a great dip with a few modifications to lighten it up a bit.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip in a baking dish with crackers and cut vegetables to the side


Table of Contents
  1. You will love this Artichoke Dip
  2. Spinach and Artichoke Dip ingredients
  3. How to make Spinach Artichoke Dip
  4. Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe variations
  5. What to eat with Spinach Artichoke Dip
  6. How to store Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip
  7. Spinach and Artichoke Dip FAQs
  8. More Appetizer Recipes You'll Love
  9. Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe

You will love this Artichoke Dip

I just love this hot spinach and artichoke dip, you guys. It's seriously one of the best party foods I know of and makes a great appetizer for any gathering year-round.

Both girls were hovering close while I tried to take these photos and sneaking tastes left and right. So this recipe is definitely kid-approved.

Looking for a good dip for your next game day party? You might also want to try our Buffalo Chicken Dip, Easy Refried Bean Dip, or Jalapeno Popper Dip with Bacon.

A hand scooping up cheesy spinach artichoke dip with a Ritz cracker.
a baking dish full of hot spinach and artichoke dip with fresh cut veggies to the side and two crackers inside

Spinach and Artichoke Dip ingredients

Most old school versions of this yummy pan of deliciousness call for mayo, sour cream, and cream cheese, along with plenty of mozzarella cheese and maybe even a little butter for good measure. Those creamy, tangy ingredients combine to create a delicious, cheesy setting for the flavors of garlic, artichokes, and spinach.

But the good news is that you can ditch the mayo, sour cream, and full fat cream cheese, swapping them with greek yogurt and reduced fat cream cheese instead, while scaling back just a bit on the mozzarella and you will still end up with a fantastically garlicky, cheesy, creamy and hot appetizer that everyone will love.

a white baking dish full of spinach dip with crackers and veggies to the side

Better yet, you will have a hard time telling that this is a healthier version of the calorie-laden classic. Bake it in an oven-safe serving dish and bonus points for serving it with lots of crisp, delicious veggies like sugar snap peas, sliced red bell peppers, and carrot sticks for dipping in it instead of just chips, crackers, and bread.

It is actually a surprisingly good-for-you food even with the indulgent creaminess from the mozzarella and cream cheese. And the greek yogurt even adds a little extra protein and nutrition, which is even better.

Ingredients for a lighter hot spinach artichoke dip include greek yogurt, reduced fat cream cheese, mozzarella, spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and parmesan cheese.

How to make Spinach Artichoke Dip

  1. In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, yogurt, garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and onion powder until combined.
  2. Add the artichoke hearts, spinach, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and green chilies and stir well.
  3. Transfer the dip mixture into a 1 ½-2 quart baking dish and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and remaining ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese.
  4. Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Serve with chips, crackers, chunks of crusty bread, or veggies.
All the ingredients for hot spinach and artichoke dip in a bowl and ready to be combined, then baked until bubbly and hot.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip Recipe variations

  • Add some ¾ cup of feta cheese for a tangy twist.
  • Try adding diced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes to give your dip a spicy kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra heat factor.
  • Mix in Mexican cheese blend, diced green chilies, and cumin for a southwestern flavor profile.
  • Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy element that complements the richness of the dip.
  • Incorporate crab meat for a seafood twist. This adds a layer of richness and a unique flavor.
  • Use feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and Greek yogurt for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
an aerial view of a white baking dish full of spinach artichoke dip with crackers and veggies to the side

What to eat with Spinach Artichoke Dip

  1. Tortilla Chips: Classic tortilla chips are a popular choice, providing a crunchy and salty complement to the creamy dip.
  2. Pita Chips: Baked or toasted pita chips add a slightly different texture and flavor to the dip.
  3. Vegetable Sticks: Serve with an assortment of fresh vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber for a refreshing and healthier option.
  4. Crackers: Choose your favorite crackers, whether they're plain, multigrain, or seeded. They provide a sturdy base for scooping up the dip.
  5. Bread Slices or Baguette: Toasted or grilled bread slices or baguette slices work well for a heartier dipping option.
  6. Pretzels: Pretzels, especially the small twists or pretzel sticks, can add a salty and crunchy element to your dip.
  7. Fresh Bread: Soft, fresh bread, torn into pieces, is a delightful option for those who prefer a softer texture with the creamy dip.
  8. Fingers Foods: Serve with bite-sized finger foods like mini sausage links, chicken tenders, or cocktail meatballs for a heartier appetizer spread.

Best crackers for Spinach Dip

Classic butter crackers, like Ritz, are a simple and buttery option that provides a light and flaky base for your spinach dip. Wheat Thins or similar whole grain crackers have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that complements the dip without overpowering it. Or try crackers with a blend of grains, sesame seeds, and whole wheat also add a nutty and hearty flavor that pairs well with the richness of spinach dip.

How to store Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Allow the spinach artichoke dip to cool to room temperature before storing it. Transfer the dip to an airtight container or just cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for 3-4 days.

When reheating, use a microwave-safe dish or transfer the dip to an oven-safe container. Reheat it in the oven or microwave until hot, stirring occasionally during reheating to help distribute the heat evenly.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip FAQs

Are you supposed to heat up spinach and artichoke dip?

Yes, we recommend heating up spinach artichoke dip. The warmth enhances the flavors and creaminess of the dip, making it more enjoyable than serving this dip cold.

Why is my spinach artichoke dip watery?

Ingredients like spinach and artichokes can release moisture during cooking. When using frozen spinach or canned artichokes, you need to make sure to drain them really well and squeeze out any excess liquid before adding them to the dip.

What are the benefits of spinach artichoke dip?

While definitely a bit of an indulgence, our lightened up version of spinach artichoke dip has plenty of spinach and artichokes which have lots of essential nutrients and vitamins, as well as protein thanks to the Greek yogurt.

two crackers in a baking dish full of spinach and artichoke dip with veggies and more crackers to the side

More Appetizer Recipes You'll Love

Did you make this recipe?

Let me know what you thought with a comment and rating below. You can also take a picture and tag me on Instagram @houseofnasheats or share it on the Pinterest pin so I can see.

Stay in the know

Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip

4.93 from 26 votes
Amy Nash
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
This Healthier Hot Spinach and Artichoke Dip recipe is sure to be hit at your next game day!  And best of all, nobody will realize it's a better-for-you-version of the original since this version has all the flavor and cheesy, creamy goodness we love about a great dip.  

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (8-ounce) package reduced fat cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon coarse salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 14 ounces artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed to drain of excess liquid
  • 1 ¼ cups mozzarella shredded cheese, divided
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 ounces mild diced green chilies, drained
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions
 

  • Heat oven to 400°F. 
  • In a large bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, yogurt, garlic, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and onion powder until combined. Add the artichoke hearts, spinach, 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese, and green chilies and stir well.
  • Transfer the dip mixture into a 1 ½-2 quart baking dish and sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese and remaining ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese.  
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Serve with chips, crackers, chunks of crusty bread, or veggies.

Nutrition

Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 8g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 290mg
Tried this recipe? Show me on Instagram!Mention @HouseOfNashEats or tag #houseofnasheats!

Share This With the World

PinYummly

Related Recipes

About the author

Hi, I'm Amy

I enjoy exploring the world through food, culture, and travel and sharing the adventure with mostly from-scratch, family friendly recipes that I think of as modern comfort cooking.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How many stars would you give this recipe?




This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Reader questions and reviews

  1. 5 stars
    What a wonderful collaboration idea! I love that and I am looking forward to seeing more of those collaborative posts from you!

    The dip looks fantastic. I almost always order a spinach and artichoke dip at pubs or if I don't then I definitely always wish I did. This lighter version looks and sounds amazing with almost no guilt!

  2. 5 stars
    Spinach and Artichoke Dip is one of my favorite indulgences, but it really can be SO heavy. I love that you've lightened this up with Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese. I bet you can't even tell that this is a lightened up recipe. It looks so creamy and comforting. Perfect for upcoming game day parties!

  3. 5 stars
    Panera used to sell a panini with spinach artichoke dip on it that I LOVED! When they discontinued it, I tried to make my own dip and was kind of horrified by the calories lol. I’ll have to try it with your version!

  4. 5 stars
    Oh yum, I just love this better-for-you of that traditional cheesey goodness!! And really, can anyone say no to artichokes? So good

  5. I've been looking for a healthier spinach-artichoke dip to bring to a party and this looks like just the thing! I'd like to bake it at home, wrap it in a towel, and bring it to my friend's house ready-to-eat so I won't have to impose on her and her oven; will this taste good even if it's no longer very hot? Thanks!

    1. It should still taste good. You could also always put it in a crock pot or warm it up in the oven again when you get there!