Looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious comfort food? Try this amazing spinach artichoke casserole recipe! This creamy dish is packed with fresh spinach and artichokes, making it not only a feast for the eyes but also incredibly tasty. Follow these detailed steps and tips to create a mouthwatering meal that's both comforting and impressive.
#### Ingredients
- 1 large head of artichokes, steamed and chopped (about 2 cups)
- 8 oz fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz sliced chicken breast or cooked bacon, optional
- Breadcrumbs for topping
#### Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Large baking dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Artichokes**
- Steam artichokes until tender (about 20 minutes). Once done, remove the stems, leaves, and choke with a knife or spoon.
- Chop the hearts into small pieces.
2. **Cook the Spinach**
- In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and cook for about 5-7 minutes until wilted. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool slightly.
3. **Combine Ingredients**
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked artichokes, cooled spinach, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, garlic, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined. The mixture should be smooth but not overly runny.
4. **Add Protein (Optional)**
- If using chicken or bacon, add these ingredients to the bowl and mix gently until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. **Prepare the Casserole**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the spinach artichoke mixture in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Add a layer of shredded cheese on top, followed by another layer of the remaining mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used up.
6. **Top with Cheeses and Crumbs**
- Sprinkle the top with a generous amount of grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the cheese for extra crunch.
7. **Bake**
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. **Serve**
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to ensure the cheese has set properly.
### Tips and Variations
- For an extra creamy texture, add some heavy cream instead of mayonnaise.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a unique twist.
- You can also try adding diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for color and flavor variety.
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Enjoy your delicious homemade spinach artichoke casserole! It’s perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in.