Alfredo Spinach Artichoke Dip

This is one of my favorite appetizers for the holidays, Super Bowl parties, or any kind of get together. It is so easy and delicious. And, if you are really in a time crunch, you can use a good jarred Alfredo sauce instead of making your own. You could also easily add shrimp or crab to this dip for even more flavor! How much better can it get?

Ingredients

1 9 oz. package chopped spinach, thawed and well drained
1 14 oz. can artichoke hearts, drained and rough chopped (I highly recommend you do not use a marinated artichoke)
1 stick butter
2 c. heavy cream
1-1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 c. shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tsp. grated garlic (or garlic paste)
1 baguette or crackers of your choice


Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Add well-drained spinach and artichokes to an oven safe dish. It is very important that these are well drained...the extra liquids will make your dip soupy if you don't.
3. In a medium sauce pan on low heat, melt butter and add garlic and warm through.
4. Add cream and simmer until the cream is warmed all the way through (about 5 minutes).
5. Add cheese and whisk until cheese is melted and your sauce is smooth.
6. Add to your sauce to the spinach/artichoke mixture and stir well.
7. Place the dip mixture in the oven and bake 15 minutes.
8. Remove from oven and stir, top with the shredded Parmesan cheese and return to the oven for 15 additional minutes.
9. Slice your baguette on a bias and lightly dip in olive oil (I keep a container of crushed garlic and olive oil in my fridge). Put the slices on a cookie sheet and place in your preheated oven. 
10. Remove all from the oven and enjoy!