Description
This irresistible baked pizza dip is a perfect party appetizer that combines creamy cheese layers, tangy pizza sauce, and savory toppings like pepperoni and olives. Warm and bubbly with golden melted cheese on top, it’s ideal for serving with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or breadsticks, making your gathering delicious and fun.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Middle and Toppings
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni
- 2 tablespoons chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sliced black olives (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the dip evenly.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended, which forms a creamy base for the dip.
- Layer the Base: Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a small baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish, creating a uniform base layer.
- Add the Sauce: Spoon the pizza sauce or marinara evenly over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out to cover the surface completely. This adds the essential pizza flavor.
- Top with Cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly on top of the sauce layer. These cheeses will melt together to form a rich and gooey topping.
- Add Toppings: Distribute the mini pepperoni slices or chopped pepperoni evenly over the cheese. If you like, add chopped green bell pepper and sliced black olives for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake: Place the assembled dip in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top turns golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This helps it set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
- Serve: Serve the dip warm with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or breadsticks for dipping. Enjoy this crowd-pleasing appetizer at any party or gathering.
Notes
- Customize the dip by adding your favorite pizza toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or jalapeños to suit your taste.
- To make this dip vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables.
- Best served fresh and warm right from the oven for optimal flavor and texture.
