We’ve always been huge fans of California Pizza Kitchen’s spinach artichoke dip, that creamy crowd-pleaser originating from the iconic restaurant chain. It’s the perfect appetizer for gatherings blending fresh spinach artichokes and gooey cheese into a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
In our kitchen we’ve recreated this classic recipe with simple ingredients so you can whip it up at home. Let’s explore how this dip brings restaurant-quality taste right to your table.
Ingredients
As we dive into recreating our homemade version of the CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip, we focus on simple, fresh ingredients that capture the creamy texture and flavorful essence highlighted in the previous section. We’ve organized this list in the order of use, with precise measurements and prep notes to ensure accuracy and ease.
- Fresh spinach: 2 cups, fresh or thawed from frozen, chopped – We start with this as the base for its vibrant color and earthy flavor; if using frozen, squeeze out excess water.
- Artichoke hearts: 1 can (14 ounces), drained and roughly chopped – These come next for their tangy bite; draining is crucial to prevent the dip from becoming too watery.
- Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened at room temperature – This provides the rich, creamy foundation; softening ensures smooth blending.
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup – Added for tanginess and extra creaminess; full-fat works best for an authentic restaurant-quality result.
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup – We use this to enhance the dip’s velvety consistency and subtle richness.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Incorporate this early for its aromatic punch; fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile significantly.
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated – Grated finely for even melting; this adds a nutty, savory depth that defines the CPK taste.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup – Melted into the mix for gooey texture; we recommend low-moisture for the best results.
- Salt and black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon each, or to taste – Season to balance flavors; adjust based on the saltiness of your cheeses.
- Optional red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon – For a hint of heat if desired, adding a subtle kick to complement the dip’s creaminess.
Equipment Needed
To bring our homemade version of the Cpk Spinach Artichoke Dip to life, we need a few essential tools that ensure smooth preparation and baking. These items help us achieve that creamy, golden-baked texture without any hassle.
- Mixing Bowl: We recommend a large glass or stainless steel mixing bowl for combining ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, and artichoke hearts. This allows for easy stirring and maintains even temperatures.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch oven-safe baking dish is ideal for our dip, providing ample space for even baking and that irresistible bubbly top.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to replicating the restaurant-quality flavor, so use a set of dry and liquid measuring cups along with spoons for ingredients such as garlic and spices.
- Cutting Board and Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife helps us quickly chop fresh spinach and artichokes, ensuring uniform pieces for better texture.
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F for baking our dip to perfection—rely on a reliable conventional or convection oven to deliver that warm, melty consistency.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing and serving, a heat-resistant silicone spatula works best to fold in cheeses without damaging your bowls or dishes.
By having these tools ready, we can seamlessly transition from preparing the ingredients to crafting a dip that captures the essence of the original Cpk favorite.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s create our homemade CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip with simple, precise steps. We’ll ensure every detail delivers that creamy, savory texture and rich flavor you love from the original.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we mix and bake, we prepare our ingredients to enhance their flavors and ensure even cooking. Start by washing and chopping 10 ounces of fresh spinach into bite-sized pieces for that vibrant, earthy base. Next, drain and roughly chop one 14-ounce can of artichoke hearts to release excess moisture and add a tangy, tender crunch.
Mince 2 cloves of garlic for a bold, aromatic punch, and grate 1 cup of Parmesan cheese along with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella for their melty, nutty goodness. In a large mixing bowl, soften 8 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature, then stir in ½ cup of sour cream and ½ cup of mayonnaise for a smooth, creamy foundation. Finally, season with ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and optional ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. This preparation sets the stage for the dip’s irresistible, layered taste.
Cook the Dip
With ingredients prepped, we cook the dip to blend flavors and achieve that golden, bubbly finish. Preheat your oven to 350°F as mentioned in our equipment list. In the large mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Use a spatula to mix thoroughly until the mixture is uniform and creamy, taking about 2-3 minutes of stirring to ensure every bite bursts with savory goodness.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly for optimal baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling—the enticing aroma of garlic and cheese will fill your kitchen, signaling a perfectly heated dip with a warm, gooey center.
Assemble and Serve
Once baked, we assemble and serve the dip for maximum appeal and enjoyment. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes to maintain that creamy consistency without burning your mouth. If desired, sprinkle an extra ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella on top and broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispier finish, enhancing the dip’s cheesy, irresistible allure.
Serve immediately in the baking dish or transfer to a serving platter, pairing it with fresh tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or vegetable crudités for dipping. This step ensures our CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip shines as the star appetizer, delivering a crowd-pleasing combination of textures and flavors that echoes the restaurant classic.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our homemade CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to save time while preserving that irresistible creamy texture and savory flavor. Whether we’re hosting a gathering or prepping for a busy week, these steps ensure the dip stays fresh and delicious until serving time.
Preparing the Dip in Advance
We can assemble the dip mixture up to 24 hours before baking. Start by following the initial prep steps from our recipe: wash and chop the spinach, drain and chop the artichoke hearts, mince the garlic, and combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl until fully mixed. This step locks in the vibrant, herbaceous notes of the spinach and artichokes.
- Transfer and Store: Spoon the uncooked mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or an airtight container. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying or absorbing odors from the fridge.
- Refrigerate: Place the dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the dip’s rich, cheesy profile.
If we prefer to bake first and reheat later, follow the full baking instructions, then cool the dip completely before storing.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the dip’s golden-baked exterior and creamy interior. Here’s how we handle it:
- Refrigerated Storage: After baking and cooling, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. The dip will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, retaining its bubbly, melted-cheese appeal.
- Freezing for Longer Hold: For extended storage, freeze the unbaked mixture or baked dip in a freezer-safe container. It lasts up to 2 months without losing its fresh taste.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration (unbaked) | Up to 24 hours | Stir before baking to ensure even texture. |
| Refrigeration (baked) | 3-4 days | Reheat gently to avoid separating the cheeses. |
| Freezing (unbaked) | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. |
| Freezing (baked) | Up to 1 month | Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain creamy consistency. |
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to serve, we reheat the dip to restore its warm, gooey goodness and that signature CPK-inspired zest.
- From Refrigerated (Unbaked): Preheat the oven to 350°F, remove the cover, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. The aroma of melted cheeses and garlic will fill the kitchen, signaling it’s ready.
- From Refrigerated (Baked): Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier top, uncover and broil for 1-2 minutes.
- From Frozen: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then follow the reheating instructions above. This ensures the dip emerges with its original velvety smoothness and robust flavor.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we keep our CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip convenient yet true to its crowd-pleasing essence.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on the CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip. It’s a simple way to bring restaurant vibes into your home.
By tweaking this recipe to suit your tastes you’ll create memorable moments with friends and family. Let’s keep the good times rolling with homemade favorites that never disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip?
The key ingredients include fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. These simple items create a creamy, flavorful dip, with specific measurements provided for easy replication at home.
What equipment do I need to make this dip?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a 9×13-inch baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, a cutting board and knife, an oven preheated to 350°F, and a spatula or wooden spoon. These tools ensure a smooth preparation and help achieve the dip’s perfect creamy texture.
How do I prepare CPK Spinach Artichoke Dip at home?
Start by prepping ingredients: wash and chop spinach, drain and chop artichoke hearts, mince garlic, and grate cheeses. Mix everything in a large bowl, transfer to a greased baking dish, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving for the best results.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to let flavors meld. This makes it convenient for parties while keeping it fresh. Just bake when ready to serve for that warm, gooey texture.
How should I store and reheat the dip?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, restoring its creamy consistency without losing flavor.
What are some good serving suggestions for this dip?
Serve warm with tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or vegetable crudités like carrots and celery for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It pairs well with meals or as a standalone snack, enhancing any gathering with its restaurant-quality taste.
Are there any variations to the original recipe?
You can add extras like chopped bacon or jalapeños for a twist, or substitute low-fat versions of cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter option. Experiment with herbs like basil for added flavor, but keep core ingredients for the authentic CPK essence.