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Pizza Dip Recipe

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4 from 4 reviews

This creamy and cheesy Pizza Dip recipe is a crowd-pleaser perfect for parties and gatherings. Layers of seasoned cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar, and pizza sauce topped with mini pepperonis bake into a hot, bubbly dip that pairs perfectly with bread, chips, or crackers. Garnished with fresh basil and red pepper flakes, it delivers all the flavors of a classic pizza in one delicious dip.

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Toppings

  • 1 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
  • ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 ½ ounces mini pepperonis
  • Thinly sliced fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (for garnish)

For Serving

  • Sliced baguette
  • Tortilla chips
  • Pita chips
  • Cubed artisan or sourdough bread
  • Mini garlic bread crisps

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the dip.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, dried oregano, dried basil, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until well blended and smooth.
  3. Assemble the Dip Base: Spread the cheese mixture evenly into an 8-inch square baking dish or a 9-inch pie pan, forming a smooth layer.
  4. Add Pizza Sauce: Spoon and spread the pizza sauce evenly over the cheese layer, covering it completely.
  5. Add Cheese and Pepperoni Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce. Then top with the mini pepperonis to add savory flavor and texture.
  6. Bake the Dip: Place the assembled dip in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top has fully melted and slightly browned.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly sliced basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top. Serve warm with your favorite sliced baguette, tortilla chips, pita chips, or bread cubes.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and richest flavor.
  • For a spicier dip, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of crushed red pepper to the cheese mixture.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the mini pepperonis and add chopped veggies like bell peppers or olives.
  • This dip can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting cold.
  • Try serving with various dippers like breadsticks, crostini, or even fresh vegetable sticks for a lighter option.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/pizza-dip-recipe/