Description
A quick and easy appetizer made by stuffing a loaf of Italian bread with a creamy mixture of spinach, artichokes, and cream cheese, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Ready in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large Italian loaf or French bread (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Slice the Italian loaf in half horizontally, creating a hinge so it stays in one piece.
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, squeezed spinach, chopped artichokes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.
- Brush the cut sides of the bread generously with melted butter.
- Spread the spinach-artichoke mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the filling, then top with grated Parmesan.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the bread edges are crispy.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes to allow filling to set.
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, slice into portions, and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the frozen spinach is squeezed completely dry to prevent soggy bread. Use block cream cheese rather than tub cream cheese for better texture. Shred your own mozzarella for better melting. If the cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil. Can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free loaf.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion of stuffed
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 12
Keywords: spinach artichoke dip, stuffed bread, party appetizer, game day food, easy recipe, 15 minute meal, cheesy bread, crowd pleaser