The aroma of bubbling cheese and fresh herbs fills the kitchen as this Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip bakes, offering a lighter take on the beloved appetizer without sacrificing creaminess. Made with non-fat Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, it delivers a tangy, velvety texture that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. Busy days call for simple pleasures like this, ready in under an hour.
I appreciate how this dip fits seamlessly into gatherings or weeknight snacks, pairing well with veggies for a nutritious boost. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its scoopable consistency for leftovers. Family members always reach for seconds, praising the blend of savory artichokes and spinach.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Creamy Without Guilt: This dip uses Greek yogurt and cottage cheese for a rich texture that’s lower in calories than traditional versions.
- Quick Prep Time: Ready in just 40 minutes total, it’s ideal for busy moms needing an easy appetizer.
- Versatile Serving: Pairs perfectly with chips, bread, or veggies, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake later for stress-free entertaining.
Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthier twist on the classic spinach artichoke dip, made with non-fat Greek yogurt and cottage cheese for a creamy texture without the extra calories, perfect for serving with chips or veggies.
Ingredients
- 14 oz canned artichoke hearts, well-drained and finely chopped
- 5 oz frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry
- 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup small curd cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Ensure your frozen spinach is completely thawed and all excess water has been removed. You can achieve this by pressing it firmly in a strainer or between paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared artichoke hearts, spinach, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to integrate all ingredients.
- Transfer the dip mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish or a similarly sized oven-safe pan.
- Evenly spread the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the dip.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the cheese topping is melted and golden.
- For an extra golden-brown and slightly crispy top, carefully broil the dip for 1-2 minutes just before serving, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve warm with your favorite dippers like tortilla chips, pita bread, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach to avoid a watery dip.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheeses.
Ingredients to make Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip
These ingredients come together for a lighter, flavorful dip that highlights fresh vegetables and creamy dairy alternatives, elevating the classic recipe. Opting for high-quality, low-fat options ensures the best taste and texture without excess fat.
- Canned artichoke hearts – provide a tender, briny base; drain and chop finely for even distribution.
- Frozen spinach – adds earthy nutrition; thaw and squeeze dry to prevent watery results.
- Non-fat Greek yogurt – creates a tangy, creamy consistency as a healthy mayo substitute.
- Small curd cottage cheese – blends smoothly for added protein and lightness.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully; use half in the mix and half on top for gooey layers.
- Shredded cheddar cheese – brings sharp flavor; divide for mixing and topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – adds nutty depth and helps bind the dip.
- Garlic powder – infuses savory aroma without fresh chopping.
- Onion powder – enhances umami subtly.
- Salt and black pepper – season to taste for balanced flavor.
How to Make Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure even baking. This temperature allows the dip to heat through without over-browning the cheese too quickly.
Step 2: Prepare Spinach
Thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out all excess water using a strainer or paper towels. Removing moisture prevents a soggy dip and keeps the texture creamy.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, prepared spinach, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, half the mozzarella, half the cheddar, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until everything is well integrated for even flavor distribution.
Step 4: Transfer to Dish
Spoon the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. This size works well for uniform cooking and easy serving.
Step 5: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar over the top in an even layer. This creates a golden, melty crust that everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake the Dip
Bake for about 25 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. Check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
Step 7: Broil for Crispiness
Broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve an extra golden-brown top, watching closely to prevent burning. This step adds a delightful crunch.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving with dippers like chips or veggies. Enjoy it hot for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Squeeze Spinach Dry: Press out all water from the thawed spinach to ensure a thick, non-watery dip that holds together well.
- Use Reduced-Fat Cheeses: Opt for lighter versions of mozzarella and cheddar to keep calories low without losing meltiness.
- Prep Ahead: Mix the ingredients and refrigerate up to a day before baking for easier entertaining.
- Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye during the 1-2 minute broil to get a golden top without burning the cheese.
How to Serve Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle fresh chopped green onions or a dash of red pepper flakes on top for a pop of color and mild heat that complements the creamy base. A light drizzle of olive oil adds a subtle shine and richness. These touches make the dip look inviting and enhance its fresh flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair it with crisp carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices for a healthy crunch that balances the warmth. Whole-grain pita chips or toasted baguette slices provide a hearty contrast. This setup keeps things light and nutritious for casual snacking.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon the dip into individual ramekins for a personalized touch at parties, creating a cozy, shareable vibe. Layer it in a bread bowl for a fun, edible container that wows guests. These ideas add visual appeal while keeping the focus on the golden, bubbly texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store any remaining Healthy Spinach Artichoke Dip in an airtight container in the fridge, where it stays fresh for up to three days. Cover it tightly to preserve moisture and flavor. This makes it easy to enjoy as a quick snack later.
Freezing
Portion the unbaked dip into freezer-safe bags or containers, flattening them for quick thawing. It freezes well for up to two months, maintaining its creamy consistency. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out the top. For faster results, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring halfway. This keeps the dip warm and scoopable without losing its texture.
