Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

Being a good host doesn’t mean you have to work hard. In fact, sometimes the best thing you can do is vary up the difficulty of the things you’re serving so you have time to do it all and then actually enjoy the party. That’s why I think every host needs one dish they can walk away from, and this is mine. This Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip proves you don’t have to trade convenience for flavor —- dump everything in, walk away, and two hours later you’ve got the same creamy, garlicky dip everyone fights over at parties, minus the stovetop stirring or oven work.

Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

What Ingredients Do You Need for Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip?

  • Baby spinach.
  • Artichoke hearts.
  • Cream cheese, chopped so it melts in evenly.
  • Sour cream.
  • Mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
  • Garlic and onion powder.
  • Salt and pepper.
Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

Some people really enjoy tortilla chips here, but I’ve always liked melba toasts or pita chips for dipping. Whatever your favorite is will work!

Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

Does the Slow Cooker Version Taste Just as Good?

Honestly, maybe better. The low, slow heat gives the garlic and onion powder time to really work into the dip instead of just sitting on top, and the cheese melts in gradually instead of getting blasted in a hot oven, so you end up with a smoother, more evenly creamy dip than most baked versions. You’re not sacrificing anything here… you’re just skipping the part where it needs your attention!

Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team

How Do You Make Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip?

This is very low effort party food! (Love to hear that.) Add everything straight into a small slow cooker and stir once to combine, then cover and cook on low for 2 hours. Don’t skip the halfway stir, that’s what keeps the cream cheese melting in smoothly instead of separating into pockets. Taste and adjust the seasoning once it’s done, then serve straight from the slow cooker with your favorite dippers!

Photo: 12 Tomatoes Creative Team