Artichoke Phyllo Cups

Delicate, golden phyllo shells filled with a creamy blend of spinach, artichokes, and melted cheese make these Artichoke Phyllo Cups an irresistible appetizer. Each bite is a perfect balance of crisp pastry and rich, savory filling that feels indulgent yet light.

Ideal for holidays, game nights, or dinner parties, these bite-sized delights are not only easy to prepare but also stunning to present. Their beautiful golden tops and gooey centers will keep your guests coming back for more. Pair them with a glass of wine or a sparkling mocktail, and you have an appetizer that elevates any occasion with very little effort.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 package frozen phyllo cups (about 15)

  • 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained

  • 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Place phyllo cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.

  4. Stir in spinach, artichoke hearts, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

  5. Spoon the filling evenly into each phyllo cup.

  6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.

  7. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 130 kcal | Servings: 15 cups

Artichoke Phyllo Cups – A Perfect Party Appetizer

When it comes to appetizers, there are some recipes that never go out of style. Spinach and artichoke dip has been a staple of parties, gatherings, and cozy nights in for decades. Now imagine that classic creamy, cheesy filling tucked into delicate golden phyllo shells, creating bite-sized wonders that are both elegant and irresistible. That’s exactly what you get with Artichoke Phyllo Cups, a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare.

These little cups are crisp, flaky on the outside, and luxuriously creamy inside, making them the kind of appetizer that disappears fast at any event. They’re small enough to be served as finger food yet rich enough to hold their own as the star of your appetizer spread. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a bridal shower, or simply want something comforting for a casual evening, these phyllo cups check all the boxes.

The Allure of Spinach and Artichoke

The combination of spinach and artichokes is one of those rare pairings that has stood the test of time. Spinach brings a mild, earthy note, while artichokes add a slightly tangy and nutty flavor. When blended with creamy cheese, garlic, and a touch of seasoning, the result is a filling that’s both savory and satisfying.

Traditional spinach and artichoke dip is typically served warm with bread, crackers, or chips for dipping. While delicious, it can sometimes feel heavy or a little messy to serve. By placing this creamy mixture into crispy phyllo cups, you transform a beloved dip into a neat, elegant appetizer that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why Phyllo Cups Are a Game-Changer

Phyllo dough, also known as filo pastry, is famous for its ultra-thin, paper-like sheets that bake up into a beautifully flaky texture. Phyllo cups, pre-formed little shells made from these delicate sheets, save you time while giving your appetizers a professional presentation. They can be found in the frozen section of most grocery stores, ready to be filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

When baked, these cups become wonderfully crispy, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy, cheesy filling inside. They hold their shape beautifully, making them ideal for parties where people want bite-sized foods that are easy to pick up and eat. The best part? They look like something you’d find at a high-end restaurant or catered event, but they require minimal effort in your own kitchen.

Flavor Profile

Every bite of an Artichoke Phyllo Cup is a mini explosion of textures and flavors. The crisp shell shatters lightly as you bite into it, revealing a luscious, creamy interior. The cheeses, typically mozzarella and Parmesan, bring gooey, salty richness. Garlic and onion powder provide a subtle aromatic background, while spinach and artichokes give freshness and tang.

If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a gentle warmth that lingers after each bite. These cups strike a balance: not too heavy, not too bland, and definitely not boring. They’re the kind of appetizer that makes people go back for seconds, then thirds.

Occasions to Serve Artichoke Phyllo Cups

These delightful cups are versatile enough to suit a wide range of events and occasions:

  • Holiday Parties: Their elegant look and crowd-pleasing flavor make them perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve gatherings.

  • Game Day Snacks: Replace your usual chips and dip with these bite-sized treats, less mess, more fun.

  • Dinner Parties: Impress your guests with an appetizer that feels gourmet but takes little time to assemble.

  • Potlucks and Buffets: Easy to transport and serve, these cups are always one of the first dishes to disappear.

  • Casual Nights In: Sometimes you don’t need an occasion, these cups make a fun treat for movie nights or family snacks.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about Artichoke Phyllo Cups is how adaptable they are. Here are a few creative twists you can try:

  1. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for a little heat.

  2. Mediterranean Flair: Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Greek-inspired version.

  3. Protein Boost: Mix in shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for a heartier appetizer.

  4. Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream and mayonnaise for a healthier, tangier version.

  5. Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses, Gruyère, fontina, or gouda can add exciting depth.

  6. Mini Quiche Style: Add beaten eggs to the filling and bake for a more breakfast-inspired bite.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Artichoke Phyllo Cups come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Drain the Spinach Well: Excess water can make the filling runny. Squeeze the spinach thoroughly to remove as much moisture as possible.

  • Chop Artichokes Finely: Smaller pieces blend more evenly into the filling, ensuring each bite has a good balance.

  • Don’t Overfill the Cups: Leave a little space at the top so the filling doesn’t bubble over while baking.

  • Bake Until Golden: Watch carefully in the last few minutes, phyllo can go from perfectly crisp to overly brown quickly.

  • Serve Warm: These cups taste best straight from the oven, but they can also be reheated gently if needed.

Serving Suggestions

While these cups are delicious on their own, you can elevate your presentation by pairing them with complementary foods and drinks:

  • With Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon complements the richness.

  • Appetizer Platters: Serve alongside other finger foods like stuffed mushrooms, bruschetta, or caprese skewers for a colorful spread.

  • Dipping Sauces: A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a side of marinara sauce can add another layer of flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Another advantage of Artichoke Phyllo Cups is that they’re fairly make-ahead friendly:

  • Prepare the Filling Ahead: You can make the spinach and artichoke mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply spoon it into the phyllo cups right before baking.

  • Freezing: You can assemble the cups, freeze them unbaked, and then bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

  • Reheating: Leftover cups can be reheated in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the phyllo.

Health Considerations

While these cups are indulgent, they don’t have to be overly heavy. With a few simple swaps, you can lighten them up:

  • Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.

  • Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

  • Increase the ratio of spinach to cheese for a more veggie-forward filling.

  • Opt for whole-wheat phyllo dough if available for added fiber.

These adjustments allow you to enjoy the same great flavors while keeping the dish a little lighter.

Conclusion

Artichoke Phyllo Cups are more than just another appetizer, they’re a showstopper that combines ease, elegance, and incredible flavor. With their golden, flaky shells and creamy, savory filling, they strike the perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet bite. They’re versatile enough for holidays, casual nights, or formal events, and their endless variations ensure you’ll never get bored.

Whether you stick to the classic spinach and artichoke filling or experiment with bold new flavors, these little cups are guaranteed to impress. Simple to prepare yet sophisticated to serve, they remind us that the best dishes are often the ones that take familiar ingredients and present them in a fresh, delightful way. Once you add Artichoke Phyllo Cups to your appetizer rotation, they’ll quickly become a favorite that friends and family look forward to every time.

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