Spinach And Artichoke Dip Sliders

It’s game night at our house, and the usual suspects are on the menu: pizza, wings, chips and salsa. But this time, I wanted to shake things up a bit, something familiar yet exciting. Enter Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders. I’ve always been a sucker for a good spinach artichoke dip – that creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness is simply irresistible. The idea of transforming it into sliders? Pure genius, if I do say so myself! The first time I made these, the family went wild. Even my picky eaters, who usually side-eye anything green, devoured them. The soft, toasted slider buns, overflowing with warm, bubbling spinach artichoke dip, were an instant hit. They are easy to eat, perfect for sharing, and honestly, incredibly moreish. Whether it’s a casual get-together, a potluck, or just a fun weeknight meal, these Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience your favorite dip in a whole new, handheld, and utterly delicious way!

Ingredients

• Slider Buns: 12 slider buns, preferably soft and slightly sweet like Hawaiian rolls, for that perfect bite-sized vessel.
• Fresh Spinach: 10 ounces, roughly chopped. Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully and provides a vibrant color and mild earthy flavor. Frozen spinach, thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry, can be substituted in a pinch.
• Artichoke Hearts: 1 (14-ounce) can, drained and roughly chopped. Marinated artichoke hearts will add extra flavor, but plain canned or frozen artichoke hearts work just as well.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. Full-fat cream cheese provides the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but reduced-fat can be used for a slightly lighter option.
• Mayonnaise: ½ cup. Mayonnaise adds moisture, richness, and a slight tang to the dip. Use your favorite brand, or even homemade.
• Sour Cream: ½ cup. Sour cream contributes to the dip’s tanginess and creamy texture. Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and savory depth of flavor that complements the spinach and artichokes perfectly.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded. Mozzarella cheese provides that classic cheesy stretch and melty goodness we all love in a dip.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is essential for that pungent, aromatic kick that makes spinach artichoke dip so addictive.
• Onion: ¼ cup, finely diced. A small amount of onion adds a subtle savory base note to the dip.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a gentle warmth and subtle spice to balance the richness of the dip. Omit if you prefer a completely mild flavor.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Salt enhances all the flavors and is crucial for seasoning the dip properly.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle bite and complexity.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. For sautéing the spinach and aromatics, olive oil adds a touch of richness and flavor. Butter can also be used for a richer flavor.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted. For brushing the slider buns, melted butter adds flavor and helps them toast to a golden brown.

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Spinach: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and softened but not browned. Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach to the skillet, a handful at a time, and cook until it wilts down significantly. This should only take a few minutes. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry before adding it to the skillet – you can skip the sautéing step for spinach if using frozen, pre-cooked spinach.
3. Combine Dip Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add the sautéed spinach and garlic-onion mixture to the bowl.
4. Add Artichokes and Cheeses: Add the drained and chopped artichoke hearts, grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined and the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Season the Dip: Season the spinach artichoke dip mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a bit more salt or pepper to your liking.
6. Assemble the Sliders: Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, creating tops and bottoms. Place the slider bun bottoms on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Fill the Slider Buns: Generously spoon the spinach artichoke dip mixture onto the bottom halves of the slider buns, ensuring each slider is well-filled.
8. Top with Slider Bun Tops: Place the top halves of the slider buns over the filled bottoms, gently pressing down to secure them.
9. Brush with Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter. Brush the tops of the slider buns with the melted butter. This will help them brown beautifully and add extra flavor.
10. Bake the Sliders: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the slider buns are golden brown and the spinach artichoke dip is heated through and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and gooey.
11. Broil for Extra Browning (Optional): For extra golden brown and slightly crispy tops, you can broil the sliders for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Watch them closely to prevent burning, as broilers can heat very quickly.
12. Serve Warm: Remove the Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, when the dip is melty and the buns are soft and toasted.

Nutrition Facts

(Per slider, approximate values – may vary based on specific ingredients and bun size)

• Serving Size: 1 slider
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Total Fat: 15g

Please note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes chopping vegetables, sautéing, and mixing dip)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (baking time in the oven)
• Total Time: 40 minutes (from start to finish, ready to serve)

These Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders are surprisingly quick to prepare, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you need a delicious appetizer or snack in under an hour!

How to Serve

Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to make them the star of your meal or appetizer spread:

• As an Appetizer:
  • Party Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve alongside other appetizers like crudités, chips and salsa, or mini meatballs for a diverse and appealing spread.
  • Game Day Snack: Perfect for watching sports! Pair them with your favorite game day beverages like beer, soda, or iced tea. They are easy to eat while cheering on your team.
  • Pre-Dinner Bite: Offer a slider or two as a delicious and satisfying appetizer before a main course. Their rich flavor will tantalize taste buds without being too heavy.
• As a Light Meal:
  • Slider Trio: Serve 2-3 sliders per person for a light lunch or dinner. Accompany them with a fresh side salad like a simple green salad, Caesar salad, or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad to balance the richness of the sliders.
  • Soup and Sliders: Pair them with a bowl of comforting soup, such as tomato soup, vegetable soup, or even a creamy potato soup for a heartier meal.
  • Brunch Option: Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders can even be a fun and unexpected brunch item. Serve them alongside fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, or scrambled eggs for a savory and satisfying brunch spread.
• Dipping Sauces (Optional, but Recommended!):
  • Ranch Dressing: A classic and creamy pairing that complements the richness of the dip.
  • Marinara Sauce: For a tangy and slightly acidic contrast.
  • Garlic Aioli: Enhance the garlic flavor with a creamy garlic aioli.
  • Spicy Mayo: Add a kick with sriracha mayo or chipotle mayo.
• Garnish Ideas:
  • Fresh Parsley or Chives: Finely chopped, sprinkled on top for freshness and visual appeal.
  • Shredded Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of extra parmesan cheese adds a salty finish.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: For a visual cue to the subtle spice (if used).
  • Balsamic Glaze: A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and sophistication.

Additional Tips for Perfect Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders

1. Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of these sliders relies heavily on the quality of the ingredients. Use good quality cream cheese, mayonnaise, and cheeses for the best taste. Fresh spinach will always provide a better flavor than frozen (though frozen is a convenient substitute).
2. Don’t Skip Sautéing the Aromatics: Sautéing the garlic and onion in olive oil before adding them to the dip base really helps to mellow their raw flavors and develop a deeper, more savory base for the dip. This step enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.
3. Squeeze Spinach Dry (If Using Frozen): If you opt for frozen spinach, it’s absolutely crucial to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Excess moisture will make the dip watery and prevent it from having the desired creamy texture. Use your hands or cheesecloth to squeeze it really well.
4. Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Taste the spinach artichoke dip mixture before filling the sliders and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t be afraid to add a little more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
5. Don’t Overfill the Sliders: While you want to be generous with the filling, avoid overfilling the slider buns. Too much filling can make the sliders messy to eat and might cause the buns to become soggy. Aim for a generous but manageable amount of dip in each slider.
6. Toast the Buns for Extra Texture: For added texture and to prevent the bottoms from getting soggy, you can lightly toast the slider bun bottoms before filling them. A quick toast in the oven or on a skillet will create a slightly crispy base that holds up better to the dip.
7. Make-Ahead Dip (Time Saver!): The spinach artichoke dip itself can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saving tip when you’re preparing for a party. Just assemble and bake the sliders when you’re ready to serve.
8. Customize Your Cheese Blend: Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a bit of smoked gouda can add interesting flavor variations to the dip. Consider adding a sharper cheese like cheddar for a bolder flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders

Q1: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the dip mixture. About 10 ounces of fresh spinach is roughly equivalent to a 10-ounce package of frozen spinach.

Q2: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

A: You can prepare the spinach artichoke dip a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you are ready to serve, assemble the sliders and bake them as directed. Assembling the sliders too far in advance might make the buns soggy.

Q3: Can I freeze Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders?

A: It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled sliders as the texture of the buns and the dip may change upon thawing and reheating, potentially becoming soggy. However, you can freeze the spinach artichoke dip itself in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using it to assemble fresh sliders.

Q4: What kind of slider buns are best for this recipe?

A: Soft, slightly sweet slider buns like Hawaiian rolls work wonderfully because they provide a nice contrast to the savory dip and hold their shape well. However, you can use any type of slider bun you prefer – brioche, potato, or even pretzel buns would all be delicious options.

Q5: Can I make these sliders vegetarian or vegan?

A: These sliders are already vegetarian! To make them vegan, you would need to substitute the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese with vegan alternatives. There are many delicious plant-based cream cheeses, mayonnaises, sour creams, and shredded cheeses available in most grocery stores now.

Q6: How do I reheat leftover Spinach and Artichoke Dip Sliders?

A: Leftover sliders are best reheated in the oven or an air fryer to maintain the bun’s texture. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the sliders for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the buns soggy.

Q7: Can I add meat to these sliders?

A: While these sliders are delicious as they are, you could certainly add cooked, crumbled bacon, shredded chicken, or cooked sausage to the spinach artichoke dip mixture for a meatier version. Add the cooked meat in step 4 when you add the artichokes and cheeses.

Q8: My spinach artichoke dip is too thick. How can I thin it out?

A: If your dip is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a tablespoon or two of milk or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. Start with a small amount and add more gradually until you achieve the perfect creamy texture. You can also add a touch more mayonnaise or sour cream to thin it out while maintaining richness.

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