Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe

Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe: Golden, Cheesy & Delicious

When I first made these spinach artichoke swirls, I didn’t expect them to turn out this good. The creamy filling, the cheesy flavor, and that golden-brown crust had me hooked from the very first bite.

It felt like I had baked something straight out of a restaurant kitchen. These little swirls became my go-to whenever I needed a quick snack, appetizer, or something to share with friends.

If you love recipes that are easy yet impressive, this one’s for you. I’ll also share some handy tips I’ve learned after trying it a few times, plus fun variations you can try. And by the way, if you’re a fan of cheesy dishes, you might also enjoy exploring the Pumpkin Spice Fireball Sangria Recipe.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here are a few things I learned while making spinach artichoke swirls that really make them shine.

• Always squeeze spinach really well before adding it. I pressed it in a kitchen towel to remove extra water. This keeps the filling creamy and not watery.
• Use freshly grated cheese instead of packaged ones. It melts better and gives richer flavor.
• Chill the rolled dough log for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the swirls neat and prevents the filling from spilling out.
• A touch of lemon zest in the filling adds brightness. I tried this once, and it really balanced the richness.
• Don’t skip the egg wash. It makes the swirls look bakery-style with a shiny golden top.

Fun Variations to Try

You don’t always have to follow the recipe exactly. I experimented with a few variations, and they worked really well. If you’re looking for versatile dinner recipes, here are some ideas:

• Dairy-Free Version – Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based mozzarella for a lighter option.
• Spicy Kick – Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
• Herb Lovers – Mix in fresh parsley, dill, or basil to add more freshness.
• Extra Cheesy – Add shredded cheddar or provolone along with mozzarella for a gooey twist.
• Healthy Swap – Use whole wheat pizza dough for more fiber and a nutty flavor.

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools makes this recipe smoother. Here’s what I used:

• Skillet – For cooking onions, garlic, and spinach.
• Mixing bowl – To blend the creamy filling.
• Rolling pin – Helps flatten the pizza dough evenly.
• Serrated knife – Makes neat slices of the swirls.
• Baking sheet – For even baking.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Pastry brush – To apply the egg wash for a golden crust.

How to Serve Spinach Artichoke Swirls?

Presentation matters just as much as taste. Here’s how I love serving these swirls:

• Place them on a wooden board with a small dipping bowl of marinara sauce.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Serve warm with a side of fresh salad for a light lunch.
• Arrange on a party platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

And if you’re into sweet treats, pair your appetizer spread with something like Blackberry Opera Torte for the perfect finish to your menu.

Calories Count

These swirls are flavorful and filling but not too heavy. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per swirl (depending on size and toppings):

• Calories: 140–160
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

How to Store the Swirls

Here’s the best way to keep your spinach artichoke swirls fresh.

• Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place baked swirls in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispness. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them, but they’ll be softer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe has a lot going for it, and I think that’s why it’s become such a favorite. Here’s why you’ll love it too:

• Easy to Make – You don’t need complicated steps; it’s beginner-friendly and quick.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Works as an appetizer, snack, or even a light dinner.
• Customizable Flavors – You can swap cheeses, herbs, or seasonings to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Everyone loves creamy, cheesy bites that look fancy but are simple to make.
• Great Make-Ahead Option – You can prepare them in advance and bake right before serving.

Ben Carraoli

Spinach Artichoke Swirls Recipe

Spinach artichoke swirls are a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in golden pizza dough. They make a great appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. The flavors of spinach, artichoke, and cheeses come together in each bite, making them irresistible for any gathering.

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12

Course: Dinner

Calories: 140

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 package 14.1 ounces refrigerated pizza dough – premade dough keeps this recipe quick and easy. Roll it evenly for the best results.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – helps soften onions and garlic while adding extra flavor.
• 1 small onion finely chopped – sautéed onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
• 2 cloves garlic minced – fresh garlic brings out the best flavor; avoid jarred garlic if possible.
• 10 ounces frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry – make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a soggy filling. Fresh spinach works too, but cook it down first.
• 1 14 ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped – use marinated ones for extra flavor or plain for a lighter taste.
• 4 ounces cream cheese softened – gives the filling its creamy texture. Room temperature cream cheese blends better.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise – makes the filling rich and smooth.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – freshly grated is best for flavor and melting.
• 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese – adds stretch and cheesiness. Freshly shredded melts better than pre-packaged.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional – for a gentle kick of spice.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – adjust to taste.
• 1 egg beaten (for egg wash) – creates a golden finish.
• Everything bagel seasoning optional – adds crunch and extra flavor to the tops.

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. This process adds sweetness and removes the raw onion bite. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant, then stir in the spinach. Make sure the spinach is fully squeezed dry before adding to prevent watery filling. Finally, mix in chopped artichokes and cook for a few minutes until well combined.
2. Transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Add cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan, mozzarella, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Season with salt and pepper, then mix everything until creamy and well combined. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning to your liking before moving on.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Spread the creamy spinach artichoke filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Roll the dough into a tight log, then seal the edge to hold everything together.
4. Using a serrated knife, cut the rolled dough into 1-inch slices. Place each swirl on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Brush the tops with egg wash to create a golden crust, and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning if desired. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Let them cool slightly before serving.