Description
Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly crispy on the outside—these Fried Spinach & Artichoke Dip Balls are the ultimate party appetizer. Inspired by everyone’s favorite dip, these bite-sized snacks are filled with a savory mixture of spinach, artichokes, and melty cheese, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. Serve them with a cool dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing, addictive treat you’ll make again and again.
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Ingredients
For the Filling:
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1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped (or thawed frozen spinach)
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1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts, finely chopped
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½ cup cream cheese, softened
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½ cup sour cream
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For Breading:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
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Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
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Ranch dressing
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Garlic aioli
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Marinara sauce
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Spicy mayo
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Roll into Balls
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the chilled mixture into 1–1½ inch balls.
Place on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes or until firm enough to bread.
Step 3: Bread the Balls
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
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Flour
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Beaten eggs
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Breadcrumbs
Roll each ball in flour, dip into egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.
Return to baking sheet and freeze again for 15–20 minutes (this helps them hold their shape when frying).
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Fry a few balls at a time, turning as needed, until golden brown—about 2–3 minutes per batch.
Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve Hot with Dipping Sauce
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Chill Well – Cold filling and pre-frozen balls hold their shape better.
Use Panko – For extra crispy, golden crust.
Don’t Overcrowd – Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
Add Extra Cheese – Stir in some shredded cheddar or pepper jack for flavor variety.
Bake or Air Fry – For a lighter option, bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American / Appetizer