Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is one of the most flavorful and delicious recipes to make. The ultimate comfort food dish with a twist of the caramelized shallots that really make this even more tasty. Plus we use greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and this takes 10 minutes of effort.

If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer that pleases a crowd and feels a little fancy but is oh-so-easy to make, you’re in the right place. This Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip will be your new go-to recipe for every gathering, holiday, or game day. It combines the savory richness of artichokes and spinach with the subtle sweetness of caramelized shallots. Not to mention, the cheesy goodness of parmesan and mozzarella that brings everything together.

Whether you serve it with crispy crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies, this dip is guaranteed to be the highlight of your spread. Let’s dive into the details on how to make this crowd-pleasing appetizer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Caramelized shallots: They add a sweet, delicate flavor that elevates the classic spinach and artichoke dip to a whole new level. Shallots are milder than onions and caramelizing them brings out their natural sweetness.
• Creamy texture: The combination of cream cheese and Greek yogurt creates the ultimate smooth and creamy texture, with just enough tang to balance the richness.
• Cheesy goodness: Parmesan and mozzarella add a sharp, salty bite that melds perfectly with the other ingredients.
• Healthy twists: With the addition of spinach and artichokes, this dip sneaks in some veggies, making it feel a little more wholesome than your average dip.
• Easy to make ahead: You can prepare this dip in advance, refrigerate it, and pop it in the oven right before serving.

What ingredients you need to make Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

• Olive oil – Adds richness and helps caramelize the shallots.
• Shallot – The star ingredient for caramelization, adding subtle sweetness.
• Plain cream cheese – The creamy base of the dip.
• Plain greek yogurt – Adds a tangy flavor and lightens up the creaminess.
• Grated parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty bite.
• Garlic – Because garlic makes everything better.
• Fresh basil – Fresh basil adds a lovely herbaceous note.
• Artichoke hearts – Provides a slightly briny flavor and heartiness.
• Baby spinach – fresh spinach is best for this. Please don’t use frozen.
• Grated mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping.
• For serving: crackers of choice, toasted bread or veggies

Instructions on how to make this Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the dip bakes evenly, with the cheese on top getting beautifully golden and bubbly.

Step 2: Caramelize the shallots

In a small skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped shallots. Stir frequently, and let the shallots cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft, golden, and caramelized. You want them to release their natural sweetness and get just the right amount of color. Once done, remove them from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the dip ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, fresh basil, garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This mixture will form the creamy base of your dip.

Next, fold in the artichoke hearts, chopped spinach, half of the mozzarella cheese, and the caramelized shallots. Mix gently to incorporate all the ingredients. The spinach will wilt slightly as the dip bakes, and the artichokes will provide that signature flavor everyone loves in a good artichoke dip.

Step 4: Assemble and bake

Transfer the dip mixture into a greased 8×8 baking dish (or a similar-sized round baking dish). Use a spatula to spread the dip evenly across the dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is lightly browned and starting to bubble. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden, and your kitchen is filled with the irresistible aroma of caramelized shallots and garlic.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy!

Once your Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the dip warm with your choice of crackers, toasted bread slices, or veggies like cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or carrot sticks.

Tips for Making the Best Spinach and Artichoke Dip:

• Room temperature cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, lump-free dip.
• Fresh vs. canned artichokes: Canned artichoke hearts are convenient, but if you prefer, you can use frozen or fresh artichokes. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding to the dip.
• Mozzarella for the win: Using mozzarella on top ensures a melty, stretchy cheese layer that adds extra deliciousness to every bite.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Why This Dip Is a Crowd-Pleaser?

This Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip stands out from the usual party dips for a few reasons:

1. Rich layers of flavor: Caramelized shallots add depth and sweetness that you don’t often find in a traditional spinach and artichoke dip. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final flavor.
2. Perfectly creamy texture: The combination of cream cheese and Greek yogurt provides the perfect balance between indulgence and lightness, so you can keep dipping without feeling weighed down.
3. Easy to customize: Feel free to get creative! Add in some red pepper flakes for a little kick or switch up the cheeses by trying asiago or gouda for a different flavor profile.
4. Vegetable-packed: With spinach and artichokes, this dip is loaded with veggies, making it a slightly healthier option for your appetizer table. You can also make it gluten-free by serving it with gluten-free crackers or bread.
5. Versatile serving options: Whether you serve it with crusty bread, crunchy veggies, or even pita chips, this dip pairs well with just about anything. It’s an easy way to add variety to your party snacks.

When you’re planning your next gathering, be sure to include this Caramelized Shallot Spinach and Artichoke Dip on the menu. It’s an elevated take on the classic spinach and artichoke dip, packed with flavor from the caramelized shallots, fresh basil, and creamy cheeses. Plus, it’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your guests with this irresistible dip. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just craving a snack-worthy dish, this dip will quickly become a favorite.

Enjoy!

A few other appetizer recipes to try:

Greek 7 Layer Dip with Za’atar

Whipped Feta Dip with Olives

Crispy Quinoa Feta Fritters with Labneh Dill Dip

The BEST Healthy French Onion Dip!