Appetizers · 3 min read
Applebee's Spinach Artichoke Dip (Copycat)
Make this Applebee's Spinach Artichoke Dip copycat for a hot, creamy, cheesy appetizer that tastes just like the restaurant favorite.
★ 5.0 (5)
Applebee's Spinach Artichoke Dip is a restaurant favorite for good reason: it's hot, creamy, and full of cheese. This easy copycat recipe recreates that same indulgent appetizer at home using a garlicky Alfredo sauce base, which makes the dip extra silky and rich. Tender spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella bake together until bubbly and golden, so you can scoop it up with tortilla chips straight from the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Copycat
- The garlicky Alfredo sauce base gives the dip a silky, savory flavor that sets it apart from other spinach artichoke dips.
- Three types of cheese (Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella) create a rich, gooey texture that clings to every chip.
- It comes together in one bowl and bakes in a standard 8x8 dish, so it's a low-fuss appetizer for parties.
Key Ingredients for Authentic Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Garlic Alfredo sauce: This is the secret to the dip's creamy, savory base. It adds garlic flavor and richness that plain cream cheese alone can't provide. You can use any brand of jarred Alfredo sauce, or make your own. Look for a high-quality sauce with real Parmesan.
- Artichoke hearts: Canned artichoke hearts give the dip its signature tangy, tender texture. Drain and roughly chop them before adding. You can use marinated artichokes for extra flavor, but they'll add more oil.
- Frozen chopped spinach: Frozen spinach is convenient and works perfectly here. Thaw it and squeeze out as much water as possible to keep the dip thick. If you use fresh spinach, you'll need to cook it down and drain it well.
Kitchen Tools for Making Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip
- 8x8-inch baking dish (for baking the dip)
- Electric hand mixer (to blend the cream cheese mixture smoothly)
- Large mixing bowl (to combine all ingredients)
- Rubber spatula (to fold in the remaining ingredients and spread the dip evenly)
Tips for Making the Best Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Soften the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing so it blends without lumps.
- Use an electric hand mixer to combine the cream cheese, milk, and Alfredo sauce until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Check the dip at the 55-minute mark. It's done when it's hot and bubbly around the edges and the top is lightly golden.
- Let the dip rest for 5 minutes after baking so it sets slightly and doesn't burn your mouth.
Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip Variations to Try
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, salty twist.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat.
- Swap the mozzarella for pepper jack cheese to add a spicy kick.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and milk, and serve with fresh vegetables instead of tortilla chips.
What to Serve with Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip
Toppings for the dip
- Extra grated Parmesan or Romano for a salty finish
- Chopped fresh parsley for color
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
What to serve with it
- Tortilla chips, the classic choice
- Crusty bread or baguette slices
- Fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell pepper strips
How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The dip will thicken as it cools; stir in a splash of milk when reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
How to Freeze Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip
This dip freezes well. If you want to make it ahead, assemble the dip in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, add about 20 minutes to the baking time, or until hot and bubbly. For already-baked dip, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Best Ways to Reheat Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip
To reheat leftover dip, place it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between, but the oven gives a better texture. If the dip seems dry, stir in a splash of milk before reheating.
Source recipe: Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip (Copycat) (SnapChef ID 7f2818fd-c04e-4b4d-98e0-8c3b0d3c0cf2). Nutrition is estimated per serving.
Ingredients
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, milk, and alfredo sauce. Mix well with an electric hand mixer until well blended. Add the remaining ingredients (except for the tortilla chips) and mix with a large mixing spoon or rubber spatula.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, using the spoon or spatula to gently flatten the top and create an even layer.
- Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, checking periodically, and serve warm with tortilla chips.
Tap a step number to check it off as you cook.
Nutrition Facts per serving · estimated
Amount per serving
% Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet (FDA).
Good to know
Questions, answered
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can. Use about 1 pound of fresh spinach, wilt it in a pan, then chop and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding it to the dip. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly since fresh spinach has more water.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dip a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add about 10 minutes to the baking time to account for the cold start.
What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce?
If you don't have Alfredo sauce, you can make a quick substitute by simmering 1 cup heavy cream with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and 2 cloves minced garlic until thickened. Or use a combination of cream cheese and garlic powder for a simpler version.
How do I know when the dip is done?
The dip is done when it's hot and bubbly throughout and the top is lightly golden. The recipe suggests 55-60 minutes, but ovens vary, so start checking at 55 minutes. Insert a knife into the center; it should come out hot.
