This cheesy baked pizza dip is a fun mix of melted cheese, savory sauce, and tasty toppings. It’s perfect for sharing at parties or for a cozy night in!
Who wouldn’t love dipping crispy bread into gooey, cheesy goodness? I could eat this whole dish myself—and I usually do! Grab your friends and dive in before it’s all gone!
It’s super easy to make! Just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and it’s ready to enjoy. I love serving it with fresh veggies or chips for extra crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base that gives the dip its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese or a vegan cream cheese to keep it plant-based.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that stretchy, melty quality. You can substitute with a low-fat mozzarella or even cheddar if you prefer a sharper flavor. Mixing in some provolone adds a nice twist too!
Pizza Sauce: While I love using store-bought pizza sauce for convenience, you can also make your own by simmering tomato puree with spices like oregano, basil, and garlic. Marinara sauce works great in a pinch as well.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni is easy to use, but you can swap it out with chopped cooked sausage, diced ham, or even veggie pepperoni for a meatless dip.
Basil: Fresh basil gives a nice pop of flavor. If you can’t find fresh, dried basil can work too, but use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do I Make Creamy, Flavorful Dip Without Overmixing?
To get that perfect creamy consistency, it’s important not to overmix the ingredients. Start by blending the cream cheese gently with other components. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened; it should be easier to mix.
- Combine the cream cheese and pizza sauce with a spatula rather than a mixer—this keeps things fluffy.
- Mix in the cheeses and seasonings just until they’re combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser dip.
Keeping this in mind will ensure your dip is smooth and delightful! Bake it just until the cheese is melted and bubbling for the best texture. Enjoy your cheesy dish with lively chips or crispy bread!
Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni cut into small pieces)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Baguette slices or toasted bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cheesy baked pizza dip will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick appetizer that will impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the dip will bake evenly and become perfectly bubbly and golden.
2. Prepare The Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese along with the pizza sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. You can use a spatula or a hand mixer, just don’t overmix!
3. Add The Cheeses:
Next, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Make sure they’re well combined for that delicious cheesy flavor throughout the dip.
4. Transfer To Baking Dish:
Now, take your creamy mixture and spread it evenly into an oven-safe skillet or a baking dish. You want to make sure it’s spread out nicely so it bakes evenly.
5. Top With Cheese and Pepperoni:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Then, arrange the mini pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese. This will create a beautiful and delicious topping once it’s baked!
6. Bake The Dip:
Put the dish in the oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned a lovely golden brown at the edges.
7. Garnish And Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, be careful as it will be hot! Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite dippers. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
This dip is perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy night in. Share it with friends or keep it all to yourself—you won’t regret it!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Dip?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese in this recipe! It will still provide a creamy texture, though the dip may be slightly less rich compared to using regular cream cheese. Be sure to soften it well for easier mixing.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sliced olives, diced bell peppers, or cooked crumbled sausage for additional flavor. Just make sure to make adjustments in the amounts to keep the dip balanced and delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave in short intervals until heated through or back in the oven until bubbly.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance, just cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes before baking it in the oven to ensure even cooking.