Spicy Swiss Chard and Artichoke Dip

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the bacon and cook until crispy and browned, another 5 minutes. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat. Add the chard and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the artichoke hearts, pickled jalapeños and sun-dried tomatoes; heat through, about 1 minute.

Step 2

In a medium pot, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking, until golden, about 2 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and slowly whisk in the milk. Cook, whisking constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add the sauce to the chard mixture. Stir in the ricotta, cream cheese, cheddar and parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3

Transfer to the baking dish. Sprinkle with more parmesan. Bake until golden brown and bubbling, about 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.