Parmesan Breadcrumb Topped Canned Artichoke Hearts

If you love a crunchy, cheesy topping, then you’re going to fall for these Parmesan breadcrumb-topped canned artichoke hearts. Trust me, it’s a game changer!

I always keep a can of artichoke hearts in my pantry because they’re so versatile. But when I add a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping, they go from simple to stunning in minutes.

You’ll love the mix of creamy artichokes and the golden, crunchy topping. It’s a dish that’s quick to make but feels extra special, perfect for a snack or appetizer.

So, if you’re ready to try something easy and delicious, let’s get started with these Parmesan breadcrumb-topped canned artichoke hearts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: Whether you’re serving this dish at a party or enjoying it on a quiet evening at home, you’ll hear nothing but praise from your guests. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Quick & Easy: With a simple preparation time and minimal ingredients, this dish is a breeze to make, even on a busy weekday.
• Healthy-ish Comfort Food: Artichokes are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients, making this dish a delicious and healthy option.
• Customizable: You can make this recipe your own by adjusting seasonings or adding extras like anchovies or extra garlic.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick reheats throughout the week – it’s just as tasty on day two!

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a quick list of kitchen tools that will make putting together this artichoke dish a breeze:

• Baking Dish: A medium to large baking dish works best for this recipe. It allows the artichokes and topping to cook evenly while keeping everything in place.
• Large Skillet or Pan: You’ll need a skillet to sauté the garlic and breadcrumbs before adding them to the dish. A non-stick skillet is ideal for a golden crisp finish.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to making sure the seasoning and breadcrumbs are perfect.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping the parsley and prepping the garlic.
• Lemon Squeezer: To get the most juice out of your fresh lemons without any seeds.
• Grater: For fresh parmesan – trust me, it makes a difference!

Now that we have the tools ready, let’s gather all the ingredients needed to create this simple yet flavorful artichoke dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish (don’t worry, it’s not much!):

• Canned Artichoke Hearts (in water): You’ll want to get artichokes in water, not oil, for this recipe. Drain and halve them for easy bite-sized portions.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and gives it a lovely citrusy zing. You’ll use the juice for the artichokes and also for the breadcrumb topping.
• Butter (or Olive Oil): Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic and breadcrumbs to perfection. Choose whichever you prefer, though butter will give it that extra indulgent flavor!
• Garlic Cloves (minced): Fresh garlic is a must here – it brings in a depth of flavor that garlic powder just can’t match.
• Anchovy Fillets (optional): These are optional but highly recommended for a salty, umami boost to the dish. If you’re not a fan of anchovies, feel free to skip this ingredient without compromising the overall flavor.
• Italian Style Breadcrumbs: The perfect crispy base for the topping. If you can find fresh breadcrumbs, even better, but store-bought works just fine here.
• Flat Leaf Parsley (chopped): Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the parmesan and breadcrumbs.
• Fresh Parmesan (shredded): Freshly grated parmesan is a game-changer in this recipe. Its sharp, nutty flavor elevates the entire dish.
• Freshly Grated Black Pepper: To finish the dish, a sprinkle of black pepper brings a touch of heat and balances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for a dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and heart.

1. Prepare the Artichoke Hearts

Start by draining and halving your canned artichoke hearts. This is the easiest part! Gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help ensure the artichokes get that perfect, crisp topping later on.

Once they’re drained, arrange the halved artichokes in your prepared baking dish in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them – they need space to cook evenly and crisp up a little around the edges.

2. Sauté the Garlic and Breadcrumbs

Next, grab your skillet and add the butter (or olive oil) over medium heat. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, until it becomes fragrant and golden brown. Be careful not to burn it!

Now, it’s time to add the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle them into the skillet and stir them around to coat them in the butter and garlic. Let them cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and crispy. The butter and garlic will infuse the breadcrumbs with flavor, making this topping irresistible.

3. Add the Parmesan and Parsley

Once the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy, take the skillet off the heat and add in your freshly grated parmesan and chopped parsley. Stir everything together until the breadcrumbs are well coated in cheese and herbs. The parmesan will melt slightly, creating little pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the mixture.

Serving and Decorating Tips:

Once your artichoke hearts are prepped and the topping is ready, it’s time to assemble and bake.

• Spoon the breadcrumb mixture generously over the artichokes in the baking dish. Make sure the topping covers each artichoke heart completely.
• Give each artichoke a nice squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that citrusy zing.
• Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden and crispy.
• For an extra touch, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes to get an even crispier top.

How to Serve Canned Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping

Now that your artichokes are golden and crispy with that mouthwatering breadcrumb topping, it’s time to serve and enjoy! This dish is versatile, and you can pair it with a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, it’s bound to be a hit.

1. As an Appetizer

Serve the Canned Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping as a light, flavorful appetizer at your next dinner party. Arrange the artichokes on a platter, and garnish with a few extra sprigs of chopped parsley for a pop of color. A few wedges of fresh lemon on the side will allow your guests to squeeze on additional citrus for a refreshing burst of flavor.

You could also pair this dish with a tangy dipping sauce, like a lemon aioli or a creamy ranch dip. The crispy breadcrumbs and tender artichokes are perfect for dipping!

2. As a Side Dish

These artichokes make a fantastic side dish to complement your main course. They’re especially great with Mediterranean-inspired meals. Here are a few dishes that pair wonderfully with this recipe:

• Grilled Chicken or Fish: The rich, umami flavor of the artichokes pairs beautifully with the lightness of grilled chicken or a simple pan-seared fish like salmon or tilapia.
• Pasta Dishes: Serve alongside your favorite pasta dish – whether it’s a hearty spaghetti with marinara sauce, a rich alfredo, or a light lemon-garlic pasta. The flavors of the artichokes will balance the richness of the pasta perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you’re preparing roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms, these artichokes would make the perfect accompaniment.

3. On a Salad

For a healthier, lighter option, toss these Canned Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping on a fresh salad. The crispy topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fresh greens. Pair it with a Mediterranean-inspired salad of mixed greens, olives, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it’s still a great leftover option that you can enjoy later. If you happen to have any leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Canned Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The breadcrumbs may lose some of their crispiness, but the flavor will remain intact.
• Freezing: While freezing this dish is possible, the texture of the breadcrumbs may change after being frozen and reheated. If you want to freeze the dish, place the artichokes in an airtight container or freezer bag, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to reheat, you may need to bake it again with an extra sprinkle of breadcrumbs to refresh the texture.

Reheating Leftovers:

• In the Oven: The best way to reheat these artichokes is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the artichokes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until they’re heated through and the topping has regained some of its crispiness.
• In the Microwave: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the leftovers. Just be aware that the breadcrumbs may not stay crispy. Place the artichokes on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking the temperature halfway through.

Variations of Canned Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping

This recipe is already a winner, but sometimes it’s fun to experiment and make it your own! Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Add Some Extra Vegetables

You can elevate this dish by adding other vegetables to the baking dish along with the artichokes. Try adding roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers for a more substantial dish. The veggies will soak up the flavors of the breadcrumbs and butter, making the dish even more flavorful.

2. Make it Spicy

If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the breadcrumb mixture. A little bit of spice will add an exciting contrast to the rich and creamy artichokes.

3. Use Different Cheeses

While parmesan is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses as well. Try adding a bit of grated mozzarella for extra meltiness or a tangy goat cheese crumbled over the top. A mix of parmesan and pecorino romano adds another layer of flavor.

4. Make it Vegan

For a plant-based version of this dish, swap out the butter for olive oil, use vegan parmesan, and skip the anchovies. You can also add nutritional yeast to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

The Perfect Pairings

As a flavorful side dish or appetizer, these Canned Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping pair beautifully with a variety of meals. Here are a few ideas for mains to serve alongside:

• Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken: The tangy, fresh flavors of the chicken complement the rich, savory artichokes.
• Salmon with Dill: The herby flavors of dill in the salmon are a perfect match for the lemony zest of the artichokes.
• Pasta Primavera: A light and fresh pasta dish filled with vegetables pairs wonderfully with the crispy artichokes.
• Steak: For a hearty dinner, pair the artichokes with a juicy steak and roasted potatoes.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on ingredient brands and specific measurements.

Conclusion

This Canned Artichoke Hearts with Parmesan Breadcrumb Topping recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal time, you can create a dish that feels indulgent but still has a refreshing, healthy feel. Whether you’re making it as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

The best part? You can adapt this recipe to suit your tastes. Want more heat? Add some red pepper flakes. Prefer a dairy-free version? Swap out the butter and cheese. Whatever your preferences are, this dish is versatile enough to meet them.

So, next time you’re craving something crispy, savory, and packed with flavor, grab a can of artichoke hearts, fire up your oven, and make this dish. It’s a guaranteed winner!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen or fresh artichokes instead of canned?

Yes, you can absolutely use fresh or frozen artichokes! Just be sure to cook them first before halving them and following the rest of the recipe. Frozen artichokes may need to be thawed and drained before use.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the artichokes and breadcrumb topping in advance. Store the prepared artichokes in the fridge and keep the breadcrumb topping separate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply top the artichokes with the breadcrumb mixture and bake as directed.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add a little kick, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic and breadcrumbs, or even add diced fresh jalapeños to the breadcrumb mixture.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Of course! While parmesan is a classic choice, you can try other cheeses like mozzarella for extra meltiness, or pecorino romano for a sharper, tangier flavor.