While some people like spending New Year’s Eve celebrating at big gatherings with lots of music, champagne, and hoopla, others (myself included) enjoy having a few friends over for food and conversation, with maybe some games or a movie for entertainment. If you are one of the latter or are planning a small get-together on the first day of 2018, this recipe is perfect for such gatherings. And you don’t need a fondue pot!

I got this recipe many, many, MANY years ago from Patrick's Pub & Eatery in Gilford, New Hampshire. You can make it in a cast-iron skillet, and then serve it warm with some crusty bread or crisp veggies. Everyone can gather around the pan and scoop out warm, creamy cheese while chatting about their dreams for the New Year.

 

Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Serves 8 to 10

6 8-oz packages cream cheese

1/2 Tbsp onion powder

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 tsp basil

1/2 tsp thyme

1 tsp oregano

1 to 2 tsp hot sauce or more, to taste

1 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard

1/2 Tbsp horseradish sauce

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

6 Tbsp heavy cream

1 10-oz package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

2 14-oz cans artichoke hearts, diced

1 small onion, finely diced

Directions 

1. Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet into a 200º oven to warm.

2. Place the cream cheese in a large, microwave-safe bowl. Heat cream cheese in the microwave until it is melted.

3. Add remaining ingredients and mix well until blended. Place dip in the warm cast-iron skillet. Sprinkle top with some extra shredded cheese and place under a broiler until cheese is melted and begins to turn brown.

4. Keep in a 200º oven until ready to serve. Serve with toasted Italian bread, bagel chips, crackers, tortilla chips, or veggies.