Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups

This Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups recipe is perfect for entertaining or a cozy night in when you want something creamy, cheesy, and easy to share. These bite-sized delights are simple to assemble and bring that classic dip flavor in a neat handheld form.

I love how these cups come together quickly when unexpected guests arrive, and they always vanish fast which means they were a hit every time.

Ingredients

• Fresh spinach: chopped adds a bright color and fresh flavor use tender leaves for the best texture
• Artichoke hearts: canned or frozen bring that signature tangy, earthy taste drain well to avoid sogginess
• Cream cheese: softened creates the creamy, rich base for the dip
• Sour cream: adds tang and smoothness make sure it is fresh for the best creaminess
• Mayonnaise: balances richness and adds silkiness look for good quality mayo for flavor depth
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully providing gooey texture
• Grated Parmesan cheese: brings sharpness and a savory punch choose freshly grated for more flavor
• Garlic powder: offers subtle garlicky warmth skip fresh garlic here as powder blends better
• Salt and pepper: season to taste adjust for your preference
• Phyllo pastry cups or mini pastry shells: hold everything neatly for easy serving pick sturdy shells to prevent leaks

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius to get it ready for baking which helps the pastry cups crisp perfectly.

Prepare the Filling:

In a bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to make a smooth, creamy filling. I like to taste the mixture at this point and adjust seasoning because that’s when the flavors really come together.

Fill the Cups:

Arrange the phyllo pastry cups on a baking sheet. Scoop a spoonful of the filling into each cup filling it generously but not overflowing so it bakes evenly without spilling.

Bake:

Place the baking sheet in the oven for about 20 minutes. You want the tops to get golden brown and bubbly which indicates the cheeses inside have melted and the filling is perfectly heated through.

Cool and Serve:

After baking, let the cups cool for a few minutes so they firm up just enough to handle. Serve warm for that melty comforting bite everyone loves.

My favorite part is the crispy edges of the phyllo partnered with the creamy filling. These always remind me of holiday gatherings at my friend’s house where this appetizer was the first to disappear every year making it a sure crowd-pleaser.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness in the pastry shells instead of microwaving which makes them soggy. They keep well for up to three days.

Ingredient Swaps

Try swapping mayo for Greek yogurt if you want a tangier, lighter version. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or use smoked mozzarella for a different cheesy aroma.

Serving Ideas

Serve these with a fresh green salad or alongside sliced cured meats for a tapas-style spread. They pair wonderfully with chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

This recipe is simple enough to keep as a standby for easy entertaining yet special enough to impress guests. The combination of creamy cheeses, tender spinach and artichokes, and crisp pastry is just the right kind of comforting indulgence.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned or frozen?

Yes, fresh artichokes can be steamed and chopped before mixing, but ensure they are tender and drained well to maintain the right texture in the filling.

→ What type of phyllo pastry cups work best?

Mini phyllo or pastry shells designed for appetizers work well, providing a crisp and flaky base that holds the creamy filling.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

The filling can be made in advance and stored refrigerated, then filled into the cups and baked just before serving for best freshness.

→ How can I make this dip less rich?

Reducing mayonnaise or substituting sour cream with Greek yogurt lightens the filling without compromising flavor.

→ What is the best way to ensure the cups stay crisp?

Bake the filled cups immediately and avoid overfilling to prevent sogginess. Serving them warm maintains the crisp texture.