If you are on the lookout for a dip that’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe is going to become your new best friend. It beautifully combines the tender, subtle sweetness of white beans with the earthy notes of artichokes, brightened up by fresh herbs and lemon. The addition of Parmesan cheese lends a rich, savory depth that makes each scoop utterly irresistible. Perfect for entertaining or a cozy snack, this dip is as versatile as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of texture and flavor, turning basic pantry staples into a gourmet experience.
- 15oz roasted artichokes: Whether you use roasted or marinated, these add a tender, slightly tangy base that’s key to the dip’s character.
- 15oz can white cannellini beans: Rinsed and drained, these creamy beans provide the smooth foundation and a subtle nutty flavor.
- 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested: Adds a fresh, zesty brightness that lifts all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings a luscious silkiness and helps blend everything together.
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme: Earthy and fragrant, enhances the herbal profile.
- 2 teaspoons fresh oregano: Adds a Mediterranean touch and subtle warmth.
- 2 teaspoons fresh basil: Bright and aromatic, it brightens the dip and adds freshness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: To pull out and balance all the flavors.
- Black pepper to taste: For a gentle kick and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of savory, pungent goodness that wakes up the taste buds.
- 1/2 cup Italian cheese blend (Trader Joe’s Quattro Formaggio recommended): Creamy, melty cheese that delivers the signature Parmesan-rich finish.
How to Make Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by placing the artichoke hearts, white beans, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, fresh thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic into a food processor or a sturdy blender. Pulse everything a few times to begin blending the ingredients. This step sets the base of your dip’s creamy texture and fresh flavor.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
Next, add the half cup of your Italian cheese blend into the mixture. Pulse again until the cheese is fully incorporated and the dip reaches a smooth, luscious consistency. The cheese melts in gently, creating that irresistible Parmesan undertone without overpowering the herbs and beans.
Step 3: Refrigerate Before Serving
Transfer your freshly made dip into a serving bowl. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to two days if preparing ahead. Chilling helps the flavors meld together beautifully and thickens the dip just right for scooping.
How to Serve Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few torn basil leaves on top adds a delightful finishing touch and pop of color. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil also brightens the presentation and adds richness.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with crunchy crusty bread, warm pita chips, or even fresh cut vegetables like crisp carrots and celery. It also makes a lovely companion to grilled meats or roasted vegetables, creating a balanced and satisfying appetizer spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming party setup, serve this Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl surrounded by veggie sticks and crackers. You can also layer it in a glass jar for portable snacking or spread it on crostini and broil for a quick, bubbly bruschetta variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because of its creamy nature and fresh herbs, it’s best enjoyed within two days to maintain its vibrant flavor and texture.
Freezing
This Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe isn’t ideal for freezing since dairy and fresh herbs can lose their texture and flavor after thawing. It’s best to make it fresh or store it short-term in the fridge.
Reheating
If you want to serve it warm, gently warm the dip in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little olive oil to refresh its creamy texture. Just be careful not to overheat or burn the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use canned artichokes for this dip?
Absolutely! Canned or jarred artichokes work perfectly, just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture diluting the dip.
Is this dip vegan or dairy-free?
The recipe as written includes a cheese blend, so it’s not vegan or dairy-free. However, you can substitute the cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast to keep it plant-based.
How long does this dip keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this dip will stay fresh and tasty for up to two days. After that, the herbs and cheese flavors start to diminish.
Can I make this dip spicier?
Of course! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce is an easy way to add some heat while preserving the other flavors.
What other cheeses can I use instead of the Italian blend?
Grated Parmesan alone is a great choice, or you can mix it with mozzarella or a sharp cheddar for a different twist on the flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe is a delightful, easy-to-make appetizer that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a creamy, herbaceous snack, it delivers big on flavor without demanding a lot of time or complex ingredients. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming your go-to dip for every occasion.
Print
Parmesan, White Bean + Artichoke Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 side servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy and flavorful Parmesan, White Bean, and Artichoke Dip combines tender roasted artichokes with smooth cannellini beans, aromatic fresh herbs, and zesty lemon for a delightful appetizer. Perfect for serving with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables, this baked dip brings together rich Italian cheese blend and garlic for a satisfying and easy-to-make party favorite.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 1 15oz jar roasted artichokes (or store-bought marinated, drained)
- 1 15oz can white cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested (about 1 tablespoon juice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
- 2 teaspoons fresh oregano leaves
- 2 teaspoons fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Italian cheese blend (Trader Joe’s Quattro Formaggio or similar)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Drain the artichoke hearts well if using marinated or roasted artichokes. Rinse and drain the cannellini beans thoroughly. Mince the garlic and zest and juice half a lemon.
- Combine the base: In a 7-cup food processor or blender, add the artichoke hearts, cannellini beans, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, fresh thyme, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Pulse the mixture several times to combine the ingredients thoroughly but keep some texture.
- Add the cheese: Add the Italian cheese blend to the food processor and pulse again until the dip becomes smooth and creamy, with the cheese fully incorporated.
- Transfer and chill: Spoon the dip into a serving or storage bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for up to two days to allow the flavors to meld and the dip to thicken slightly before serving.
- Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks as a delicious appetizer or side dip.
Notes
- Using marinated artichokes adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor but can be swapped with roasted artichokes for a milder taste.
- If you prefer a chunkier dip, pulse fewer times in the food processor.
- This dip can be made up to two days in advance for convenient entertaining.
- For a dairy-free alternative, omit the cheese or substitute with a vegan cheese blend.
- Adjust salt and pepper to your taste since the cheese adds some saltiness.