If you're on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have your guests raving, look no further than Mimi's Cheesy Garlic Artichoke Spread! This creamy, cheesy delight combines the savory richness of artichoke hearts with the irresistible flavors of garlic and Parmesan, making it the perfect dip for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering or a lively party, this dish is sure to steal the show. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe that will elevate your appetizer game and leave everyone asking for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can artichoke hearts
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chips or bread for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven.
- Drain the canned artichoke hearts thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Chop the artichoke hearts into small, bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife on a clean cutting board.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and minced garlic, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Fold all ingredients together until evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into a medium-sized baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the spread cool for 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to settle and prevent burning.
- Serve warm with toasted bread slices, crackers, or tortilla chips for dipping.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the artichoke mixture a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve!
- Experiment with Cheese: While Parmesan is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique twist on flavor.
- Serve with Variety: Pair the spread with a mix of dippers like toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetable sticks to cater to different tastes.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the spread to cool for a few minutes after baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes it easier to scoop without burning your fingers!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
