Dive into Deliciousness with Applebee’s Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Applebee’s has etched its place in the hearts of many diners as the go-to spot for an enjoyable meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic dish, a new culinary adventure, or a cozy gathering with loved ones, Applebee’s has something for everyone.
Applebee’s, founded by Bill and T.J. Palmer in Decatur, Georgia, in 1980, has come a long way from its humble beginnings. The restaurant’s name was inspired by an old boarding house Bill Palmer frequented during his travels, offering both a sense of comfort and a touch of nostalgia. Over the years, Applebee’s has grown into a household name, boasting over 1,800 locations in the United States and around the world.
And when it comes to comfort food, there are few things as satisfying as a warm, cheesy, and creamy dip. Applebee’s introduced the Spinach and Artichoke Dip to its menu years ago, and it has remained a beloved choice for diners of all ages. It’s an ideal and delicious appetizer for sharing with friends and family and a perfect conversation starter. Everyone gets to to dig in and enjoy. And it is the PERFECT appetizer for football weekends.
But what makes it so irresistible?
- Spinach: This leafy green vegetable adds a burst of freshness and a slight bitterness that balances out the richness of the cheese.
- Artichokes: These unique vegetables bring a slightly nutty and earthy flavor, adding depth to the dip. They also provide a satisfying texture and are my all-time favorite veg, for sure!
- Cheese: A blend of creamy, melted cheeses in an Alfredo-style sauce is the backbone of this dish. The cheese creates a gooey, decadent texture that’s irresistible to cheese lovers.
- Seasonings: A dash of garlic, nutmeg, and white pepper round out the flavors, giving the dip a savory, zesty kick.
- Tortilla Chips: The crispy tortilla chips served alongside the dip are the perfect vehicles for delivering this creamy delight to your taste buds. But feel free to serve it with veggie sticks, for a “lighter” approach!
If you love Applebee’s (and who doesn’t, right?), check out these viewer favorites: Their French Onion Soup and their Beer Cheese Dip. Enjoy, love y’all!
Ingredients
- 8 oz. package of Philadelphia Cream Cheese, softened and cut into 8ths
- 2 cups Italian Blend Cheese, Mozzarella, Romano, Asiago
- 1 cup Parmesan, freshly grated
- 2 14 oz. cans of Vigo canned artichokes in water, chopped
- 10 oz. package of frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 TBL garlic, minced
- 4 TBL EVOO
- 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp. white pepper
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 4 cranks of black pepper
- 2 pinches of Kosher salt
Instructions
On a med-high heat, in a large sauté pan, add the EVOO. Once the oil shimmers, add the garlic and cook until translucent. Add the chicken stock, heavy cream, nutmeg, white pepper, and cream cheese.
Reduce the heat to med-low and stir constantly until the cream cheese melts completely. Add the Italian blend cheese, black pepper and lemon juice, continually stirring while the sauce thickens.
Once the sauce has thickened, add the artichoke hearts, spinach and salt. Blend the mixture, well, and transfer to a non-stick casserole dish. Top the entire casserole dish with the Parmesan cheese. Place dish directly under the broiler for 5 minutes until the Parmesan browns and the sides get bubbly.
Serve with Applebee’s French Onion Soup and Chili’s Southwest Eggrolls and Enjoy!
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