Spinach-Artichoke Bake
A creamy, cheesy spinach and artichoke bake with crispy bread crumbs, perfect as an appetizer or side dish for gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange artichokes in a shallow 8 x 10-inch casserole dish.
- Mix cooked leaf spinach and cream cheese; season with butter, lemon juice, and desired seasonings.
- Pour the spinach and cream cheese mixture over the artichokes.
- Top with bread crumbs.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of cream cheese and sour cream. If you want to add a bit of kick, try incorporating some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also substitute frozen spinach for the cooked leaf spinach, just make sure to thoroughly drain it before mixing. This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated until you're ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
This Spinach-Artichoke Bake is perfect as a party appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. Serve it with crusty bread, pita chips, or fresh veggies for dipping. It pairs beautifully with Cheese Things for a delightful snack spread. Consider adding a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack, but the oven will help maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach-Artichoke Bake contains roughly 664 calories, with 6g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 484mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of cooked leaf spinach?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Just sauté it in a bit of butter until wilted before mixing it with the cream cheese. This adds a lovely fresh flavor and texture to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Make sure to check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Spinach-Artichoke Bake ahead of time. Simply assemble it in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).