Oh my goodness, who doesn’t love a good spinach artichoke dip? It’s creamy, savory, and just the right amount of cheesy—perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in! Now, let me tell you about my latest obsession: air fryer spinach artichoke dip cups. These little delights take that classic dip and serve it in crispy phyllo pastry cups, making them not only delicious but also super fun to eat! I remember the first time I brought these to a friend’s party; they vanished in minutes! Everyone was raving about the flavor and the cute presentation. Trust me, once you try making these, you’ll want to whip them up for every occasion. They’re easy, quick, and just the right bite-sized treat to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients List

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Make sure to wash and chop the spinach finely so it blends well into the dip, adding that beautiful green color and a pop of freshness.
• 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped: Look for quality canned artichokes; drain them well to avoid excess moisture. Chop them into small pieces to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the dip.
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened: Let your cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. This makes it super easy to incorporate into the mixture, resulting in a creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: This adds a nice tanginess to the dip, balancing the richness of the cream cheese. You can use full-fat or low-fat, depending on your preference.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: For that extra creaminess! I like using a good quality mayonnaise—it really makes a difference in flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This will melt beautifully and create that gooey, cheesy goodness we all love. Feel free to use fresh mozzarella for an even better texture!
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses perfectly. Make sure to use freshly grated for the best taste.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key here! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you love garlic, feel free to add more!
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors. Adjust to taste based on your preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A pinch of pepper adds a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 package phyllo pastry cups: These can be found in the freezer section of most grocery stores. They’re quick to bake up to a crispy, flaky shell that holds all that delicious filling beautifully!

How to Prepare Instructions

Preparing the Air Fryer

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even cooking, ensuring that your dip cups come out perfectly crispy on the outside while the filling gets warm and bubbly. Just set it and let it get nice and toasty while you prepare the filling!

Mixing the Filling

In a mixing bowl, start by combining the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. You want it to be smooth and creamy, so mix it well—trust me, this base makes all the difference! Next, fold in the chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is thoroughly mixed for a uniform texture; you don’t want any surprise blobs of cream cheese in your dip!

Filling the Cups

Now it’s time to fill those cute phyllo pastry cups! Carefully spoon the spinach artichoke mixture into each cup, but don’t overfill them; you want just the right amount to let them puff up beautifully while still being easy to eat. An even distribution will help them cook consistently, so take a little extra time to make sure they’re all filled to the same level.

Air Frying the Cups

Arrange the filled cups in a single layer in the air fryer basket—this helps them crisp up evenly. Air fry them for about 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is heated through. Keep an eye on them, as every air fryer is a bit different. You’ll know they’re done when they look irresistibly golden and smell amazing—your kitchen is going to feel like a cozy, cheesy paradise!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time, making them a fantastic option for spontaneous gatherings!
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy, cheesy goodness of the spinach artichoke filling paired with the flaky phyllo cups is simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These little cups are a hit at parties, providing a fun and unique way to serve a classic dip that everyone loves.
• Visually Appealing: The golden brown tops and vibrant green filling make these cups not only tasty but also beautiful on any appetizer platter.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with veggies and rich flavors, these cups are a great choice for vegetarian guests without compromising on taste.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional data for each air fryer spinach artichoke dip cup. Keep in mind, this information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 150
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 5g

Tips for Success

To really nail these air fryer spinach artichoke dip cups, here are my top tips that I swear by:

• Soften the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. I like to leave it out for about 30 minutes, so it’s nice and creamy, which makes blending so much easier and results in a smoother dip.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality canned artichokes make a huge difference in flavor! If you have the time, you can even sauté the spinach lightly to bring out its flavor before adding it to the mixture.
• Experiment with Cheese: Don’t be afraid to mix it up with the cheeses! Try adding some sharp cheddar or a sprinkle of feta for a different twist. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile that can elevate your dip cups.
• Mind the Filling: When filling the phyllo cups, leave a little space at the top. This allows the filling to puff up just right and prevents any spillage while they cook!
• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your dip cups while they cook. They can go from golden brown to burnt pretty quickly! They’re done when they’re golden and the filling is bubbling.
• Let Them Cool: After air frying, let the cups cool for just a minute or two. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle when serving.

Variations

One of the best things about these air fryer spinach artichoke dip cups is how versatile they are! Here are some fun ideas to change things up and make them your own:

• Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the mixture! Just a pinch will add a nice warmth that complements the creaminess of the dip.
• Cheese Combinations: Get creative with the cheeses! Swap out some of the mozzarella for sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a zesty twist. You can even mix in some crumbled feta for a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the spinach and artichokes.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly. Consider adding chopped fresh parsley, basil, or even dill to the filling. They’ll not only enhance the taste but also add a lovely pop of color!
• Sun-Dried Tomato Delight: For a Mediterranean twist, mix in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes. They’ll bring a burst of flavor and a lovely richness to the dip cups.
• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate some chopped walnuts or pine nuts for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the creamy filling.
• Garnish Galore: Don’t forget about garnishing! Top your dip cups with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving for a gourmet touch.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create the perfect flavor profile for your taste buds. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear what unique combinations you come up with!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover air fryer spinach artichoke dip cups can be stored easily, but you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and delicious for your next snack attack! First, let them cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container. You can layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking, which is super handy for keeping them intact.

Store the container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is key to retaining that crispy exterior and creamy filling. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) again, and pop the dip cups in for about 5-7 minutes. This will warm them through and help restore their delightful crunch. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!

If you want to freeze them, you can do that too! Just make sure they’re cool, then wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and follow the reheating instructions above. Trust me, they’ll still taste amazing!

FAQ Section

What can I substitute for phyllo pastry cups?
If you can’t find phyllo pastry cups, don’t worry! You can use mini tart shells or even make your own using wonton wrappers. Just lightly brush them with oil, press them into a muffin tin, and bake until crispy before filling. They’ll hold your delicious dip just as well!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just fill the phyllo cups and air fry them. This way, you can save time during your event and still enjoy fresh, hot dip cups!

What dipping sauces pair well with this recipe?
While these dip cups are packed with flavor on their own, you might want to serve them with a side of marinara sauce for a fun twist! A spicy aioli or creamy ranch dressing also works wonders for dipping. Get creative and find the perfect dip to complement your delicious cups!

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture. This will help keep your dip cups from getting soggy.

How do I know when the dip cups are done?
You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are golden brown and the filling is heated through, giving off that irresistible cheesy aroma. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to avoid over-browning!

For more information on the benefits of spinach, check out this Healthline article. For tips on using artichokes, visit Love and Lemons.

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