Easy Slider Spinach Artichoke Sliders
Highlighted under: Quick & Easy
I love creating simple yet delicious appetizers, and these Easy Slider Spinach Artichoke Sliders have quickly become a favorite in our household. Bursting with creamy flavors from spinach and artichoke, they are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. What I find most appealing is how effortlessly they come together, using just a few ingredients to yield a dish that always impresses. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your next event.
After experimenting with various appetizer recipes, I decided to combine two of my favorites: sliders and the classic spinach artichoke dip. The result? An irresistible, bite-sized treat that everyone loves. I was thrilled to see how the creamy dip translates perfectly into slider form, making it not just tasty but incredibly satisfying.
One of the keys to achieving that velvety texture is using both cream cheese and mozzarella. This combination holds everything together beautifully while ensuring each bite melts in your mouth. If you want an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper for a touch of heat!
Why You Will Love These Sliders
- Rich and creamy filling with the perfect blend of flavors
- Convenient bite-sized portions ideal for any gathering
- Easy to make with minimal ingredients and effort
Ingredient Insights
The combination of spinach and artichokes in these sliders creates a vibrant, savory filling that bursts with flavor. Spinach not only adds nutrition but also imparts a lovely green color that contrasts beautifully with the creamy textures. Canned artichoke hearts are convenient and maintain their flavor, but if you have fresh artichokes, feel free to use them; just be sure to cook and chop them finely before incorporating them into the mixture.
Cream cheese is a crucial ingredient that not only acts as a binder but also enriches the filling with a luscious creaminess. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, which will slightly alter the taste but still deliver a creamy texture. The addition of mozzarella helps achieve that gooey, melty quality that makes these sliders so irresistible.
Assembly and Baking Tips
When assembling your sliders, it’s important to ensure that the filling is evenly distributed among the buns. This prevents any one slider from being overloaded, which can cause them to fall apart. You can use a small ice cream scoop for uniform portions, which also helps to expedite the assembly process. If you have leftover filling, consider using it as a dip with crackers or veggies – it retains its flavor beautifully even without the sliders.
Baking the sliders at 350°F for about 20 minutes is ideal for creating that golden, slightly crisp top while allowing the inside to heat thoroughly. Keep an eye on them towards the end; if you notice the tops are browning too quickly, lightly cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning. The goal is to have a bubbly, inviting filling without a burnt exterior.
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry and chopped
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns
Instructions
Steps
Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mozzarella, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Assemble the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half and arrange the bottom halves on a baking tray. Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture generously onto each bottom half.
Bake
Place the top halves of the buns over the filling. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Serve
Remove the sliders from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Pro Tips
- For a twist, try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Also, you can serve these sliders with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
These sliders are perfect for make-ahead meals! You can assemble them a day in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before your gathering for the freshest taste. If you have leftovers after your event, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to restore some of that original crispy texture.
If you’re considering freezing the sliders, it’s best to freeze them before baking. Wrap each assembled slider individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready, simply bake them from frozen, adding approximately 5-10 extra minutes to the original baking time, ensuring that they are heated through completely.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your slider experience, consider serving them with a side of marinara sauce or a zesty dipping sauce made with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. This not only adds a nice contrast in flavors but also enhances the overall eating experience, especially for guests who enjoy a bit of variety with their appetizers. If you're hosting a larger gathering, pair these sliders with a charcuterie board to offer a range of textures and tastes.
For an interesting flavor twist, feel free to add other ingredients to your filling. Chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can give a Mediterranean flair, while a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños will introduce a spicy kick. Play around with herbs such as fresh basil or dill to switch up the flavor profile, making your sliders truly unique to your taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the sliders just before serving.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as alternatives, though it may slightly change the texture.
→ Are these sliders vegetarian?
Yes, all the ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly.
→ Can I freeze the sliders?
Absolutely! Prepare the sliders as directed, then wrap them tightly and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Easy Slider Spinach Artichoke Sliders
I love creating simple yet delicious appetizers, and these Easy Slider Spinach Artichoke Sliders have quickly become a favorite in our household. Bursting with creamy flavors from spinach and artichoke, they are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. What I find most appealing is how effortlessly they come together, using just a few ingredients to yield a dish that always impresses. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your next event.
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 1 cup cooked spinach, squeezed dry and chopped
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mozzarella, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half and arrange the bottom halves on a baking tray. Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture generously onto each bottom half.
Place the top halves of the buns over the filling. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbling.
Remove the sliders from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For a twist, try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Also, you can serve these sliders with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 6g