Super Dish for the Super Bowl

All right readers, it’s that time of year again. The time when screaming football fans gather in living rooms around the country to watch commercials, pig out, and occasionally catch a bit of football. While brainstorming what dish I would make for the big game, I stumbled upon this item in the grocery store Tostito’s Creamy Spinach Dip. Now I see the allure of this product… creamy, hearty dip, pre-made and ready to be consumed. But with just a little effort and know-how we can make our own fresh hot Spinach Dip, and I promise you, it will taste phenomenal without containing “Sodium Polyphosphate, monosodium glumate, and potassium sorbate”.

And let’s be honest, it contains Spinach, so it must be good for you!

Super Simple Super Bowl Sunday  Spinach and Artichoke Dip

1. Starting Offense (Main players in this formation): In a large bowl mix 8ox (1 package) of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup mayo, 1-2 cloves of crushed garlic, 1 can of chopped artichoke hearts, and 1/2 cup of frozen spinach (chopped and thawed).
2. The Coach (Calls the plays): This is going to be our essence-providing cheese blend. Recipes suggest 1/4 cup of Parmesan, and 1/4 cup of Romano. But, for this step I usually just get a pre-packed “Italian Shredded Cheese Blend” and add 1/2 cup. Add this to the Starting Offense and stir.
3. Special Teams (The extra kick) : Add 1/2 tsp of dried basil, 1/4 tsp of garlic salt, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour contents of the bowl into a baking pan.
5. Crazy Fan who is shirtless despite the -10 degree temperature outside (What keeps them coming back for more): Use either mozzarella or more of your cheese blend, and cover the top of the baking pan in a layer of cheesy goodness. Don’t Skimp of this step!
6. Bake at 350 for about 25 min. or until the top is bubbly and just starting to brown. Then take out and serve with chips, crackers, or whatever else you prefer.

And there you have it. With slightly more effort we’ve created a homemade time-less classic that will transform any super-bowl party into the festival of gluttony that it is supposed to be. This dish is as delicious as it is easy, and dare I be cliche for a moment, a sure-fire touchdown with your guests.