Artichoke, Jalapeno, and Cheese Dip – Better than Costco!

The combination of artichokes, jalapeños, and cheese in a dip has been a beloved classic for years. Various versions have surfaced, each boasting its own unique twist and level of spiciness. In fact, you can find pre-made versions at popular retailers, notably Costco (La Terra Fina brand) and major grocery stores featuring the Stonehill Kitchens Artichoke, Jalapeño, and Parmesan Dip.

My affection for artichokes dates back to my childhood, and one evening, I decided to put my spin on an Artichoke, Jalapeño, and Cheese Dip. Craving a cheesier, tangier experience than the Costco or Stonehill versions, I set out to ensure the creaminess came from the cheese rather than relying on mayonnaise or sour cream. After a few tries, I struck gold with the perfect combination of ingredients, giving birth to this sensational dip that’s now become a family favorite.

Several key factors contribute to the appeal of this Artichoke and Jalapeño Dip over other versions and why it will soon become one of your favorite appetizers:

• Unique combination of ingredients. Many other recipes call for mayonnaise and/or sour cream to be added for creaminess; I use cream cheese and goat cheese instead. Not only does this create a richer, cheesier flavor, the goat cheese adds another level of tanginess.
• Fresh jalapeño pepper, not canned or pickled. Chopped fresh jalapeños provide a fresher, deeper, spicier flavor with a bit of crunch.
• Versatile. This flexible dip can be heated either on the cooktop or baked in the oven. Plus, it can be used not just as a dip but as a topping for fish or meats, in sandwiches, or on hamburgers, too.
• Quick and easy to prepare. No food processor or other fancy equipment needed for this creamy dip – simply chop, stir and heat.

To create this crowd-pleasing appetizer, you’ll need the following ingredients, and they all should be available in your local grocery store (quantities are provided in the recipe card below):

• Cream cheese (I recommend using full fat to maximize the flavor)
• Goat cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Canned artichoke hearts in water
• Fresh jalapeño peppers
• Green onions
• Fresh garlic
• Cayenne pepper
• Kosher salt
• Fresh ground pepper
• Tortilla chips, pita chips, or pretzel chips for serving

Here’s how easy it is to create this perfect dip in just 2 steps:

1. Combine all ingredients.
   In a medium mixing bowl, using a fork mash together the cream cheese, goat cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in the artichoke hearts, jalapeños, onions, garlic and cayenne. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
2. Stovetop version – heat in saucepan.
   Spoon the artichoke mixture into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for around 5 to 7 minutes, or until creamy and bubbly hot.

Alternative oven version – bake dip.
Spoon the artichoke mixture into a greased shallow baking dish and bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for around 15 to 20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.

The Jalapeño Artichoke Dip is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Definitely serve it warm with a side of crispy tortilla, pita, or pretzel chips. 
• You can also add celery sticks for scooping, as a healthier alternative. 
• Spoon it into phyllo cups, place on a cookie sheet, and heat in a 350-degree oven until bubbly hot.
• Omit the chopped jalapeño peppers, spoon the remaining ingredient mixture into jalapeño pepper halves, and bake in a 350-degree oven until bubbly.
• Spread it on top of fish fillets or boneless chicken breasts and bake in a 350-degree oven.
• Use it as a sandwich spread or on burgers.

While this spicy dip is delicious as is, you can customize it to make it your own:

• Add chopped cooked spinach, to create a spicy spinach artichoke dip.
• Amp up the garlic flavor by adding some garlic powder.
• Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor and added crunch.
• Stir in chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley.