Name: Toaster-Oven Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 ounces cream cheese , softened; ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3 garlic cloves , minced; ¼ teaspoon table salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 3 cups jarred whole baby artichokes packed in water , rinsed, patted dry, and chopped; 10 ounces frozen spinach , thawed and squeezed dry; 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives

Why This Recipe Works

Spinach and artichoke dip is a bona fide crowd-pleaser, perfect for when a group comes over—and even better if you can throw it in your toaster oven when your big oven is occupied. Unfortunately, spinach and artichoke dip often ends up watery and bland. We wanted a dip that was rich, creamy, and packed with flavorful chunks of artichokes and earthy spinach. We discarded versions with flour-thickened cream mixtures for an easy-prep combination of softened cream cheese and mayonnaise that gave our dip both the creaminess we were after and a subtle tanginess. Jarred baby artichokes and frozen spinach were easier options than their fresh counterparts; we just patted and squeezed them dry to eliminate excess moisture. Just 20 minutes in the toaster oven was all it took to produce a creamy, bubbly, golden brown dip to serve the whole crowd. With a sprinkle of fresh chives, our dip was ready for the party.

Before You Begin

While we prefer the flavor and texture of jarred whole baby artichokes, you can substitute 18 ounces of frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and patted dry, for the jarred. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, crostini, and/or crudités.

Instructions

Adjust toaster oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 400 degrees. Whisk cream cheese, mayonnaise, water, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in large bowl until well combined. Gently fold in artichokes and spinach. Transfer mixture to 2-quart baking dish and smooth top with rubber spatula.

Bake until spotty golden brown and bubbling around edges, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer dish to wire rack and let cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with chives and serve.