This roasted red pepper dip is creamy, flavorful, and super easy to whip up! With sweet, smoky peppers and a touch of garlic, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
I love serving this dip with crispy veggies or warm pita chips. It’s so yummy that you might find yourself polishing off the bowl faster than expected—just a heads up! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Bell Peppers: These are the stars of the dip! Sweet and smoky when roasted, they form the base. If you can’t find red peppers, yellow or orange ones work well too, but they’ll be slightly less sweet.
Cream Cheese: This contributes to the dip’s creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute with Greek yogurt. It will still provide a creamy consistency and add a bit of tang!
Mayonnaise: You can swap mayonnaise for additional Greek yogurt if you’d like to reduce calories or make it healthier. If you prefer a richer flavor, a flavored mayo can add an interesting twist.
Smoked Paprika: It adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will also work, or you can use cayenne for more heat. Just be cautious with the quantity—start small and adjust to taste!
How Do I Get the Peppers Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting the peppers well is crucial to developing their flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler and set the rack close to the heat source. This high heat helps to char the skin quickly.
- Turn the peppers every few minutes as they blacken to ensure even roasting. They’re ready when the skin is mostly blackened and blistered.
- Don’t skip the steaming step—it helps in peeling off the skins easily. Let them steam until they’re cool enough to handle.
Now, you’ll have beautifully roasted peppers that make your dip truly delicious!
Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large red bell peppers
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1-2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to roast the peppers. Overall, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead of time; just chill it until you’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Red Peppers:
First things first! Preheat your oven’s broiler. Take your whole red bell peppers and place them on a baking sheet. Broil them, turning the peppers every few minutes, until the skins are beautifully blackened and blistered on all sides—this should take about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
2. Steam and Peel:
Once they are done roasting, transfer the hot peppers to a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. This steaming will make the skins easy to peel off. Let them steam for about 10 minutes. When they’re cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and remove the stems, seeds, and membranes.
3. Blend the Dip:
Now, let’s get everything mixed! In a food processor, combine the peeled roasted red peppers with softened cream cheese, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you like a kick). Blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. It should look and smell amazing!
4. Season:
Once blended, taste your dip and season it with salt and black pepper according to your preference. You can adjust the flavors at this stage, so don’t be shy!
5. Serve:
Transfer your delicious dip into a serving bowl. For that extra touch, garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or paprika on top if you like. It adds color and a little extra flavor!
6. Enjoy:
This dip is perfect for dipping! Serve it with crackers, pita chips, or fresh veggies. It’s creamy, flavorful, and simply irresistible. Enjoy this delightful appetizer with friends and family!
Can I Use Jarred Roasted Red Peppers Instead?
Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers can save time. Use about 1 to 1.5 cups of jarred peppers, draining them well before adding to the food processor. You may want to reduce or skip the garlic since jarred peppers often come packed with flavor.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, try adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. You could also mix in a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra zing!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of lemon juice or a little water to loosen it up!
Can I Freeze This Dip?
Yes, you can freeze the dip! Just place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. To enjoy later, thaw it in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving. The texture may slightly change but it will still be delicious!
