Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip

Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip is the appetizer that every table orders. It arrives bubbling in a hot dish, thick and cheesy with chunks of artichoke and flecks of spinach throughout. It is creamy without being soupy, and the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan gives it a rich, layered cheese flavor.

At Applebee’s, this appetizer costs about $12 and serves maybe 3-4 people. Making it at home costs about $8 and makes enough for 8 generous servings.

Why Make It at Home?

Homemade means you control the cheese-to-vegetable ratio. Want more artichoke? Add another can. Prefer it cheesier? Throw in extra mozzarella. At the restaurant, you get what you get. At home, you customize.

Tips & Variations

• Squeeze the spinach completely dry. This is the most important step. Wet spinach turns the dip watery and loose. Wrap the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel and wring it out until no more water comes out. Then wring it again.
• Use canned artichoke hearts, not marinated. Marinated artichokes have vinegar and oil that change the flavor profile. Plain canned artichoke hearts in water are what you want.
• Add a kick. Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeno for a spicy version that is not on the Applebee’s menu but should be.
• Make it in a slow cooker. Combine everything in a slow cooker on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Perfect for parties — just set it and forget it.