Pecan-crusted Artichoke and Cheese Spread

Description
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
 * Makes 15 to 20 appetizer servings

Ingredients

 * ¼ cup butter or margarine, divided
 * 1 medium onion, diced
 * 2 garlic cloves, minced
 * 4 cups coarsely chopped fresh spinach
 * 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (14 oz)
 * 1 pkg. cream cheese, cut up (8 oz)
 * ½ cup mayonnaise
 * ¾ cup (3 oz) shredded Parmesan cheese, such as Sargento Fancy Supreme
 * ⅔ cup chopped pecans
 * ½ cup herb seasoned stuffing mix

Directions

 * 1) Melt 3 tbsp butter in large skillet.
 * 2) Add onion and garlic.
 * 3) Sauté until tender.
 * 4) Add chopped fresh spinach and cook over medium heat, stirring often, 3 minutes.
 * 5) Add artichoke hearts and next 4 ingredients, stirring until cheese melts.
 * 6) Spoon into a greased 2 quart baking dish.
 * 7) Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
 * 8) Stir gently.
 * 9) Combine remaining 1 tbsp butter, pecans and stuffing mix.
 * 10) Toss until blended.
 * 11) Sprinkle over top of artichoke mixture.
 * 12) Bake 15 more minutes.
 * 13) Serve spread with pita chips or French bread.