This Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt is the ultimate cheesy comfort food. Made with fresh spinach, marinated artichokes, and creamy Irish cheddar, this sandwich is packed with flavor and perfect for St. Patrick’s Day—or any day you crave something indulgent. The bread is butter-toasted to golden perfection, making this a delicious lunch, dinner, or even a next-day hangover cure!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
1 tbsp flour
½-¾ cup milk (whole goat milk or any milk of choice)
1 oz cream cheese
2 cups Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach (or ½ cup frozen, thawed)
1 (6.7 oz) jar marinated artichokes, chopped
8 slices sourdough or soda bread
Dijon mustard or Irish mustard for spreading (optional)
Butter for spreading

Directions

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Whisk in flour until it forms a paste. Cook for another 30 seconds, then slowly pour in ½ cup of milk, stirring constantly. Add more milk if the paste becomes too thick.
Stir in cream cheese, shredded cheddar, salt, and pepper until melted.
Add spinach and artichokes, cooking on low heat until the spinach wilts.
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Butter the outsides of each bread slice. If desired, spread mustard on the inside.
Spread 1-3 tbsp of the spinach-artichoke mixture on one slice, then top with another slice, buttered-side up.
Cook in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve immediately—preferably with a side of homemade potato chips!

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 932 kcal
Total Fat: 57g

Saturated Fat: 32g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 145mg
Sodium: 1050mg
Total Carbohydrates: 65g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 40g

Vitamin & Mineral Content

Calcium: ~700mg (High from cheese and milk)
Iron: ~4mg (From spinach and bread)
Vitamin A: ~3500 IU (Rich in spinach)
Vitamin C: ~8mg (From spinach and artichokes)

A Comfort Food with a Twist: The Flavors of Ireland

At the heart of the Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt is its use of Irish cheddar, a cheese known for its distinct, sharp flavor and creamy texture. Unlike regular cheddar, Irish cheddar is often aged for a longer period, giving it a deeper, more complex taste that elevates the overall flavor profile of the sandwich. The richness of the cheddar complements the earthy, robust flavors of the spinach and artichokes, creating a balanced and savory filling that’s packed with flavor.

The spinach used in this melt provides a fresh, slightly bitter taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and mild, briny flavor of the marinated artichokes. The artichokes contribute a subtle sweetness that perfectly contrasts the richness of the melted cheese and the creamy cream cheese incorporated into the sauce. The garlic adds a savory note that infuses the filling with a fragrant aroma, making each bite irresistible.

The Perfect Bread Choice: Sourdough or Soda Bread

The choice of bread for this melt is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Sourdough is often favored for its tangy flavor and chewy texture, while soda bread—a traditional Irish bread—adds a more hearty, rustic feel to the sandwich. Both options are great choices, but the sourdough offers a slight tang that works beautifully with the richness of the filling. The bread is buttered and toasted to golden perfection, providing a crispy, satisfying crunch on the outside while allowing the inside to remain warm and gooey.

The contrast between the crispy, golden-brown exterior and the creamy, melty interior is one of the standout features of this dish. The butter used in the pan-toasting process adds a rich flavor that enhances the overall indulgence of the sandwich, making it a truly comforting treat.

Why Spinach and Artichokes Make the Perfect Pair

Spinach and artichokes are a classic combination, particularly in creamy dips and casseroles. The pairing of these two ingredients in the Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt creates a filling that is both flavorful and nutritious. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamin A, and vitamin K, making it a healthy addition to any dish. The artichokes, meanwhile, provide a unique flavor while contributing fiber, antioxidants, and a range of vitamins and minerals.

The combination of these ingredients in the creamy filling creates a balanced flavor profile—earthy, tangy, and slightly sweet—which pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese and the comforting texture of the toasted bread. Together, they create a mouthwatering, savory melt that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

The Cheese Factor: Irish Cheddar and Cream Cheese

The choice of cheese is critical to making this sandwich as flavorful as possible. Irish cheddar takes center stage in this dish. Its sharp, slightly tangy flavor offers a delicious contrast to the creamy filling, while its smooth texture ensures that the cheese melts beautifully, binding everything together. The cream cheese adds an extra layer of richness and helps to create the creamy sauce that envelops the spinach and artichokes. The combination of these cheeses ensures a decadent, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

As the cheese melts into the spinach and artichokes, it creates a luscious filling that is hearty and satisfying. When combined with the garlic, the cheese not only enriches the flavor but also brings everything together in perfect harmony.

Customizing Your Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt

One of the best aspects of the Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt is its versatility. While the basic recipe is already packed with flavor, you can customize the sandwich to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For example, if you prefer a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the filling. For those who enjoy smoky flavors, adding a bit of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture will give the sandwich a whole new depth of flavor.

If you’re looking to make the dish lighter or more plant-based, you can replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based cheese in place of the Irish cheddar. The spinach can also be substituted with other leafy greens like kale or arugula, which will bring their own unique flavors and textures to the dish.

For those who enjoy extra protein, adding grilled chicken, bacon, or sausage as a topping can make this melt even heartier. The addition of these proteins will turn the sandwich into a more substantial meal, perfect for dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt is a rich, filling meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Homemade potato chips are a classic pairing, their crispy texture perfectly complementing the creamy sandwich. If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the melt.

For those who enjoy a heartier meal, this sandwich pairs well with soup, such as tomato soup or butternut squash soup. These soups add a velvety texture and a burst of flavor that balance out the indulgence of the sandwich. Alternatively, serving the melt with coleslaw or a pickle on the side can help cut through the richness of the dish, adding a crisp and tangy element.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Any Occasion

The Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply in the mood for something indulgent, this melt will satisfy your cravings. The combination of spinach, artichokes, Irish cheddar, and creamy filling creates a savory, cheesy, and satisfying experience that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Not only is this melt packed with flavor, but it is also incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep and a simple cooking process. The crispy, buttery bread, combined with the melty, rich filling, creates the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch, a dinner, or even as a hangover cure, the Irish Pub Spinach and Artichoke Melt will leave you craving more.

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