Delightfully crispy on the outside and loaded with a cheesy, savory spinach and artichoke filling, these Baked Spinach Artichoke Wonton Cups make a fantastic appetizer for any gathering. They’re easy to prepare, look elegant on a tray, and their individual serving size is ideal for a mess-free snack experience at parties or potlucks.
These wonton cups are a twist on classic spinach artichoke dip, bringing together a combination of creamy spinach, marinated artichokes, and a trio of cheeses in a crispy baked shell. Perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any spread, these cups are as satisfying as they are eye-catching!
Full Recipe:
- 24 wonton wrappers, chilled
- 9 oz creamed spinach (either frozen or freshly made)
- 3-6 oz marinated artichoke hearts, chopped (about 1/4-1/2 cup)
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4-1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Spray oil (avocado, olive, etc.)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 365°F (185°C).
- Warm creamed spinach according to package instructions. Drain and chop artichoke hearts, then mix with the spinach.
- Lightly spray a mini-muffin tray with oil and gently press wonton wrappers into the cups, lightly spraying the wrappers if you want extra crispiness.
- Bake the wonton cups for 5 minutes to set the shape.
- Combine the warmed creamed spinach with cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Season with garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture into the partially baked wonton cups and return them to the oven.
- Bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the wonton edges are golden.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 52 kcal per cup | Servings: 24 cups
Baked Spinach Artichoke Wonton Cups: The Perfect Party Appetizer
Baked Spinach Artichoke Wonton Cups are a fusion of the classic, creamy spinach artichoke dip and crispy wonton wrappers, bringing together two textures and flavors in a single bite. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a finger food that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress at parties, potlucks, or game day gatherings. The crispy wonton shells offer a crunchy contrast to the warm, cheesy filling, making each bite a satisfying blend of textures and flavors.
These cups offer a unique twist on the traditional spinach artichoke dip that everyone knows and loves. Instead of serving the dip with chips or bread, this recipe combines it with wonton wrappers for a handheld, portioned snack. This combination makes it a practical choice for gatherings, as guests can grab individual cups without the need for plates or dipping utensils. It’s a winning choice for hosts, allowing them to offer a gourmet option without requiring too much preparation or cleanup.
The Fusion of Cultures in One Appetizer
The recipe marries Asian-inspired wonton wrappers with Mediterranean flavors found in the spinach artichoke filling. Wontons, which are often used in East Asian cuisine for dumplings or spring rolls, provide a light and crispy vessel for the rich, hearty filling. Spinach and artichoke, on the other hand, are ingredients that evoke Mediterranean flavors, often found in Italian or Greek dishes. Combined with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, they create a creamy, savory filling that stands out against the crispy wonton shell.
This fusion gives the appetizer a sophisticated appeal, making it feel like an elevated version of a simple spinach dip. The mix of these flavors and textures also adds depth to each bite, turning it into more than just an appetizer – it’s a flavor experience that resonates with different culinary traditions, making it popular among diverse palates.
Customizable and Versatile
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. While the standard ingredients include a blend of cheeses, creamed spinach, and artichoke hearts, there’s plenty of room for personalization. For instance, some may choose to add fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust flavor, or swap out the Parmesan for a sharper cheese like aged cheddar. Crushed red pepper flakes are another optional ingredient, adding a hint of spice that can be tailored to personal taste.
Even the artichoke hearts can be customized based on preference. If a milder flavor is desired, reducing the artichokes slightly can balance the overall flavor. On the other hand, if a bolder taste is the goal, adding extra artichokes will make their briny, slightly tangy flavor more prominent in each bite. For those who enjoy experimentation, ingredients like sautéed onions or shallots can be added for an additional layer of flavor. These little tweaks allow cooks to adapt the recipe to their own tastes or dietary needs without sacrificing the delicious essence of the original.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Baked Spinach Artichoke Wonton Cups have a universal appeal that makes them suitable for almost any type of event. Because they’re bite-sized and self-contained, they’re easy for guests to enjoy while mingling. At parties where guests are constantly moving around, these wonton cups provide a convenient and mess-free option that’s far more satisfying than traditional chips and dip.
They also make an excellent addition to potlucks, where variety and portability are essential. Hosts can prepare them ahead of time and simply reheat before serving, making them an easy solution for busy schedules. Game day gatherings are another ideal setting for these cups, as they are hearty enough to satisfy while still feeling light, ensuring they complement heavier fare like wings or sliders. They’re also vegetarian, which appeals to a wider audience, including those seeking meat-free options.
Healthier and Lighter Alternative
Compared to traditional fried wontons or many other cheesy appetizers, Baked Spinach Artichoke Wonton Cups are a lighter option. Baking the wonton wrappers instead of frying them reduces the oil content, making this recipe a healthier choice without compromising on flavor or crunch. The filling itself, which combines spinach, a nutrient-dense leafy green, with artichokes, rich in fiber and antioxidants, brings some nutritional benefits to the dish. Even though this appetizer is indulgent, it’s a treat that offers some wholesome ingredients.
For those seeking even healthier variations, low-fat cream cheese or reduced-fat mozzarella can be used without drastically changing the taste or texture. Additionally, the use of spinach provides a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium, making these wonton cups a tasty way to get a few nutrients in while enjoying a savory snack.
Easy Preparation and Make-Ahead Options
One of the standout features of this recipe is its ease of preparation, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The process requires only a mini-muffin tray and a few basic ingredients. Even if the host is short on time, they can assemble the cups in minutes and bake them just before guests arrive. For those looking to save even more time, the filling can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, while the wonton wrappers can be pre-baked to keep their structure. Then, at the time of serving, it’s a simple matter of filling the cups and giving them a quick bake to warm and melt the cheese.
If there’s a need to prepare them several hours in advance, they can be fully assembled and kept in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply pop them in the oven for a few extra minutes to ensure the filling is warm and the wonton edges remain crisp. This make-ahead flexibility allows hosts to focus on other aspects of their event while still providing a fresh, hot appetizer when needed.
Endless Adaptations and Variations
Beyond the classic spinach and artichoke filling, this recipe is an excellent base for culinary creativity. For example, adding shrimp or crab to the filling can give the wonton cups a seafood twist that makes them stand out even more. Alternatively, swapping in feta and Kalamata olives creates a Greek-inspired flavor profile, while adding diced tomatoes, black beans, and a bit of taco seasoning results in a Southwestern-style wonton cup. These variations demonstrate the versatility of the wonton cup as a vehicle for endless flavor possibilities.
The wonton wrappers themselves also allow for experimentation. If wonton wrappers are not available, phyllo cups can serve as a quick and easy substitute. Phyllo is slightly more delicate but equally crisp, and it can bring a slightly different texture that works well with the creamy filling. The ability to customize and experiment with these cups ensures that even if this recipe is used multiple times, it never feels repetitive.
Conclusion
Baked Spinach Artichoke Wonton Cups are a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines rich, creamy spinach and artichoke dip with the satisfying crunch of baked wonton wrappers. Whether served at a casual game day event or a formal dinner party, these cups are guaranteed to be a hit. They offer a blend of flavors and textures that make them a memorable addition to any table, while also being easy enough for even novice cooks to prepare.
The adaptability of this recipe allows for personalization, whether through the addition of extra spices, alternative cheeses, or even different types of fillings. It’s a recipe that can be tailored to suit various tastes and occasions, making it a go-to option for hosts looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Ultimately, Baked Spinach Artichoke Wonton Cups are a delicious, approachable, and adaptable appetizer that will quickly become a favorite among guests and hosts alike.