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All the best parts of spinach artichoke dip are tucked inside a crunchy baguette with a creamy cheesy middle. Every slice is packed with crave-worthy flavor and a toasty exterior that seriously pops at any table. Folks are always impressed when it shows up.
The very first movie night I made this, people snatched it all before I hit the couch. Now it's my stand-by any time I want to whip up something simple but crowd-pleasing.
Delicious Ingredients
- Olive oil: brush over the baguette so you'll get a crisp, shiny crust
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts smooth and makes every bite extra stretchy
- Large baguette: day-old bread makes hollowing easier and adds crunch
- Fresh garlic: gives the filling lots of fragrant flavor
- Cream cheese: makes the center creamy and holds everything together
- Frozen spinach: be sure to squeeze out all the water so the center isn’t soggy
- Artichoke hearts: use firm water-packed ones for best taste and texture
- Optional red pepper flakes: a sprinkle gives a little kick if you like heat
- Grated Parmesan cheese: pumps up the sharp cheesy flavor and toasts the crust
- Sour cream: brings a tangy note to balance the richness
- Salt and pepper: toss in as needed to bring all the flavors together
Step-by-Step Directions
- Slice and Serve
- Let things chill for a few minutes, then cut big slices. Pass them out while still warm and cheesy.
- Brush and Bake
- Slick the whole loaf with olive oil on the sides and top for crunch and shine. Bake about 20–25 minutes until it's crisp and oozing from the middle.
- Fill the Bread
- Spoon the spinach mix into your hollowed loaf. Press it in so it's stuffed well and filled to the edges.
- Hollow Out the Baguette
- Slice a V down the top of your baguette. Pull out most of the inside, keeping the bottom and sides sturdy so it doesn’t leak. The loaf will look like a little canoe.
- Mix the Filling
- Add mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, sour cream, cream cheese, spinach (fully squeezed), chopped artichokes, and salt and pepper to a big bowl. Mix with a stiff spatula. Want a spicy touch? Go for the red pepper flakes.
- Prep the Oven and Sheet
- Heat your oven up to 350 F. Set a pan up with a little oil or use parchment to stop sticking.
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Parmesan's the game changer here—it crisps up the top like frico and gives a hint of salty, nutty flavor I can't get enough of. Every holiday, my family begs for this and there's always a little battle over the last chunk.
How to Store Leftovers
Once the stuffed bread cools, wrap it up tight in foil and stick it in the fridge. It'll stay tasty for a couple days. If you want it crispy again, use a toaster or standard oven—microwaves work too but make the bread softer.
Swaps and Variations
No cream cheese? Mascarpone is great. Want it tangy and lighter? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also swap in sautéed fresh spinach. Want a deeper flavor? Try fontina or Monterey Jack for the cheese.
Ways to Serve
Enjoy thick slices with your favorite tomato soup for lunch. Throw it next to an antipasto tray at gatherings, or serve with a runny egg to make it feel like brunch.
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Fun Food Origins
Spinach artichoke dip boomed on American menus in the eighties, becoming a must-have party snack. Stuffing that dip into bread turns a classic into a fun, hearty handheld bite that always gets smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yep, fresh spinach is great. Just fry it super quick, chop it up, and squeeze out all the water before tossing it in.
- → Which bread is best for stuffing?
A not-too-fresh baguette is perfect, since it holds up and gets crisp while baking. Thick French or Italian bread work too.
- → How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Be sure your spinach is dry before mixing it in, and don't overflow the bread. That'll keep it crisp.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yep. Put it all together, wrap it, and keep in the fridge up to a day. Pop it in the oven right before eating for the best bite.
- → What are good serving options for this stuffed bread?
Cut into chunks for a heavy snack, pair it with soup or salads, or munch it on its own for a fast lunch.
- → Is it possible to add protein or other vegetables?
Totally! Cooked chicken, bacon bits, or sun-dried tomatoes are awesome extras in the mix.