This Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip is a warm, gooey delight that brings all your favorite pizza flavors to a creamy dip. Perfect for parties, it features cheese, tomatoes, and spices!
You’ll love scooping it up with chips or bread! I guarantee it’ll be gone faster than you can say “pizza party!” 🍕 So gather your friends and get ready for some cheesy fun!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dip that gives it a creamy texture. If you need a lighter option, consider low-fat cream cheese or even ricotta for a different flavor profile!
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess. You could use Greek yogurt as a substitute if you want a creamier texture and extra protein.
Cheese Blend: Mozzarella is soft and melty, while Parmesan adds sharpness. For a twist, try using provolone or a mix of Italian cheeses!
Pizza Sauce: You can use marinara if you have it. For a fun adjustment, try pesto or even Alfredo sauce for a different taste!
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni is fun, but if you’re looking for a healthier choice, chopped turkey pepperoni or veggies like bell peppers and olives can be great substitutes.
How Do I Get My Dip to Be Extra Creamy?
To achieve the perfect creamy texture, make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. I usually take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes prior. Mixing in sour cream helps too!
- Mix vigorously to avoid lumps for a smooth texture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly for even baking.
- Don’t rush the baking: let it bubble and brown a bit for that cheesy goodness.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sliced baguette or toasted bread rounds, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So in just about 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy dip ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important so that your dip bakes evenly and gets nice and bubbly!
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use a hand mixer or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
3. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Fold in half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy mixture. This will add to the richness and flavor of your dip!
4. Spread It Out:
Take the cream cheese mixture and spread it evenly in a cast iron skillet or an oven-safe baking dish. Make sure it’s nice and smooth so it cooks evenly.
5. Top It Off:
Spoon the pizza or marinara sauce evenly over the cream cheese layer. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top to create that delicious cheesy layer!
6. Pepperoni Time:
Scatter the mini pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese. This is what gives it that classic pizza flavor!
7. Bake:
Place the skillet or dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and a lovely golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh basil slices for a pop of flavor and color. Serve warm with sliced baguette, toasted bread rounds, or your favorite crackers for dipping. Everyone will love it!
Enjoy your delicious, gooey Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip! It’s perfect for parties or a cozy night in.😋
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just ensure to keep the overall cheese quantity similar for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Dip Vegetarian?
To make this dip vegetarian, simply omit the mini pepperoni or replace it with your favorite vegetables like chopped bell peppers, onions, or olives. You can also use veggie pepperoni for that classic flavor without the meat!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, but keep in mind the dip tastes best when freshly baked!
