Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip (Authentic Copycat Recipe)

Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip

We present a meticulously tested Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip recipe that captures the unmistakable creaminess, depth, and indulgent texture of the restaurant original. This version is engineered for consistency, flavor balance, and professional results in a home kitchen, using accessible ingredients and precise techniques.

Every element from the dairy ratio to the spinach preparation has been optimized to replicate the iconic Olive Garden experience.

This is not a simplified approximation. This is a full-flavor, restaurant-grade spinach artichoke dip, designed to outperform typical versions in richness, structure, and mouthfeel.

Why This Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe Works

We rely on layered dairy, controlled moisture, and precise seasoning to achieve a dip that is:

• Exceptionally creamy without being runny
• Rich but balanced, never greasy
• Structured enough to scoop, yet soft enough to spread
• Deeply savory with a mild garlic-forward finish

The defining characteristics of the Olive Garden version silky texture, pronounced cheese flavor, and subtle Italian seasoning are all preserved.

Ingredients for Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip

Core Ingredients

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly squeezed dry
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

Optional Enhancements

• 2 tablespoons sour cream for added tang
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for silkier mouthfeel
• Extra Parmesan for topping

Ingredient Notes for Maximum Flavor

Spinach Preparation

We strongly recommend frozen spinach over fresh. Frozen spinach delivers a deeper vegetal flavor and, when properly squeezed, prevents excess moisture. Every ounce of retained water weakens the structure of the dip.

Artichoke Hearts

Canned artichokes packed in water provide a clean, mild acidity that balances the dairy. Oil-packed artichokes are not recommended, as they interfere with emulsification.

Cheese Selection

Freshly grated Parmesan is mandatory. Pre-shredded cheeses contain anti-caking agents that compromise smoothness and melt quality.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

Whisk in the flour and cook for 60 seconds to eliminate raw flour taste. The mixture should remain pale.

2. Build the Cream Sauce

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Follow with the heavy cream. Continue whisking until smooth.

Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 4–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Do not boil.

3. Incorporate the Cream Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese in small pieces, whisking until fully melted and incorporated. The sauce should now be velvety and cohesive.

4. Add Cheeses and Seasoning

Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella gradually. Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and nutmeg. Stir continuously until cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Fold in Spinach and Artichokes

Add the prepared spinach and chopped artichokes. Stir gently until evenly distributed.

Simmer on low heat for 3–4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

6. Final Texture Adjustment

If the dip is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of warm milk. If too loose, simmer gently for another minute.

Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip pairs exceptionally well with:

• Warm garlic breadsticks
• Toasted baguette slices
• Pita chips
• Tortilla chips
• Fresh vegetable crudités

For a restaurant-style presentation, serve in a shallow white bowl and finish with a dusting of grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead

Prepare up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 11g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg

Values are approximate and based on standard ingredient brands.

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FAQs About Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip

Summary

We have crafted this Olive Garden Spinach Artichoke Dip as a precise, restaurant-caliber recipe that reflects the richness, balance, and unmistakable creaminess associated with the original dish.

Every component has been deliberately selected and measured to ensure consistency, depth of flavor, and an indulgent texture that remains smooth and cohesive from the first scoop to the last. This is not a casual interpretation, but a structured and reliable preparation designed to perform at the highest level in a home kitchen.

By combining heavy cream, whole milk, and cream cheese in carefully controlled proportions, we achieve a luxurious base that supports the bold character of Parmesan and mozzarella without overwhelming the palate.

The spinach and artichokes are treated with equal precision, ensuring their natural flavors are present without introducing excess moisture that could compromise the integrity of the dip. Each step contributes to a final result that is thick, creamy, and deeply savory, with a subtle Italian seasoning profile that enhances rather than dominates.

This recipe adapts seamlessly to different serving styles, whether presented as a warm appetizer alongside breadsticks, baked with a golden cheese topping for a shared table, or served as part of a broader Italian-inspired spread. Its structure allows for advance preparation, reheating, and consistent performance, making it suitable for entertaining, family gatherings, or professional-style hosting at home.

This version stands as a complete and refined solution for those who value authenticity, richness, and repeatable success in every serving.