Description
This delicious Pizza Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer perfect for sharing. It features a creamy blend of cream cheese and sour cream, topped with marinara sauce, Parmesan, mozzarella, and pepperoni, baked until bubbly and golden. Serve with crusty bread or chips for dipping and enjoy the comforting flavors of your favorite pizza in dip form.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup sour cream (can substitute with mayo)
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (plus more for topping)
Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1 ¼ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 15 slices pepperoni (or desired pizza toppings)
To Serve
- Crusty bread, pita chips, tortilla chips, bagel chips, or vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix Base Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, dried garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Make sure the sour cream is not cold to ensure a smooth creamy texture when baked. Spread this mixture evenly at the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan, baking dish, or cast iron skillet.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the cream cheese base, then sprinkle the finely grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella on top.
- Top with Pepperoni: Arrange the 15 slices of pepperoni (or your choice of pizza toppings) evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Bake the assembled dip uncovered in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and starts to turn golden brown.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle additional red pepper flakes, freshly ground black pepper, and roughly chopped parsley on top for extra flavor and presentation.
- Serve: Serve the hot pizza dip with crusty bread, pita chips, tortilla chips, bagel chips, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute the sour cream with mayonnaise if preferred.
- Ensure the sour cream is at room temperature before mixing for a smoother dip.
- Customize your pizza dip with different toppings such as olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use a cast iron skillet or a ceramic baking dish for even heating and a nice presentation.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
