Spinach Artichoke Sliders
Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes
When I first made these Spinach Artichoke Sliders, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious they turned out. Each bite is packed with creamy artichokes and fresh spinach, complemented by gooey cheese. We often enjoy these sliders for game days or casual get-togethers, and they never fail to impress. It's the combination of flavors and textures that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they're quick to assemble, making them perfect for when you’re short on time but want to serve something extraordinary.
Making these Spinach Artichoke Sliders was a delightful experience that I often reminisce about. The moment the sliders came out of the oven, the aroma was irresistible, and the melted cheese perfectly enveloped the spinach and artichokes, creating a heavenly aroma. I realized that using fresh ingredients makes all the difference here.
My secret tip? Toasting the slider buns just a bit before assembly adds that needed crunch and elevates the entire dish. Whether paired with a creamy dipping sauce or just enjoyed plain, these sliders are a crowd favorite that I love to serve at gatherings!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Irresistibly creamy and cheesy filling
- Perfect for parties, game days, or a casual snack
- Quick to make ahead of time and reheat easily
The Perfect Filling Balance
The combination of ingredients in these sliders creates a symphony of flavors. The cream cheese serves as a rich, creamy base that binds the spinach and artichokes, while adding moisture to prevent the sliders from drying out during baking. The tangy artichokes provide bursts of flavor, cutting through the richness of the cheeses, and the melted mozzarella adds an irresistibly gooey texture that’s hard to resist. Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing, which helps achieve a smooth, cohesive filling.
Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning. The garlic and onion powder not only enhance the overall flavor but also provide aromatic undertones that elevate the dish. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences, especially since the cheese adds saltiness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper can also bring a nice hint of heat if you’re looking to spice things up. Always taste the filling before assembling to ensure it meets your flavor expectations.
Toasting and Baking Tips
Toasting the buns is crucial for achieving the perfect slider texture and structural integrity. A good layer of butter on the cut sides before toasting will give them a golden, crunchy texture that adds an appealing contrast to the creamy filling. I recommend using a skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden. If you prefer, you can also toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to save time, just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
When baking, covering the dish with aluminum foil initially traps steam, helping the sliders heat through evenly without drying out. After 15 minutes, removing the foil allows the tops to brown and crisp up beautifully. Bake until you see a golden color on the buns, which generally takes about 5 additional minutes. Keep in mind that oven temperatures can vary, so check on them towards the end of the baking time to get that perfect finish.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your sliders:
For the Sliders
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter for toasting
Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious sliders:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped spinach, artichokes, minced garlic, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Sliders
Slice the slider buns in half and spread a layer of butter on the cut sides. Place the bottom half of the buns in a baking dish and fill them with the spinach artichoke mixture. Top with the other half of the buns.
Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and slice into individual sliders. Serve warm.
Enjoy these sliders with your favorite dipping sauce!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a slight kick.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These Spinach Artichoke Sliders can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy days. Prepare the filling and assemble the sliders the night before, then wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and allow the sliders to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply arrange them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through and the tops are crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the buns soggy and affect the texture.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of dips and sides to enhance your snack spread. Pair them with a zesty marinara sauce or a creamy ranch for dipping. A vibrant side salad or vegetable platter can help balance the richness of the sliders, offering a fresh contrast. Consider adding pickles or olives on the side for a tangy crunch that complements the creamy filling nicely.
For a themed gathering, you can turn these sliders into a centerpiece of a Mediterranean spread. Serve alongside hummus, tzatziki, and pita chips to create an inviting atmosphere. You can even experiment with adding different cheeses or spices to the filling based on the tastes of your guests, making each batch unique. Variations might include adding fresh herbs like basil or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the sliders just before baking.
→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter option.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with these sliders?
They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or your favorite finger foods like veggie sticks and dip.
Spinach Artichoke Sliders
When I first made these Spinach Artichoke Sliders, I was amazed by how simple yet delicious they turned out. Each bite is packed with creamy artichokes and fresh spinach, complemented by gooey cheese. We often enjoy these sliders for game days or casual get-togethers, and they never fail to impress. It's the combination of flavors and textures that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they're quick to assemble, making them perfect for when you’re short on time but want to serve something extraordinary.
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter for toasting
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped spinach, artichokes, minced garlic, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Slice the slider buns in half and spread a layer of butter on the cut sides. Place the bottom half of the buns in a baking dish and fill them with the spinach artichoke mixture. Top with the other half of the buns.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and slice into individual sliders. Serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a slight kick.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g