This Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip is a fun and gooey treat that is perfect for sharing! With layers of melty cheese, spicy pepperoni, and zesty sauce, it’s hard to resist!
You just scoop it up with chips or breadsticks, and every bite is like a mini slice of pizza. Trust me, you’ll want to make this for your next party—or just for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dip, giving it that rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but a similar taste.
Sour Cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess. Greek yogurt can serve as a great substitute if you want less fat and more protein.
Cheeses (Mozzarella & Cheddar): Mozzarella is key for that gooey cheese quality. For cheddar, you would want a sharper variety. If allergies are a concern, dairy-free cheese blends work well too!
Pizza Sauce: You can use homemade marinara if preferred or even pesto for a twist! If you like it spicy, add red pepper flakes to your sauce.
Pepperoni: Classic, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey pepperoni or even diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can replace it.
How Do I Make Sure My Cheese Stays Creamy and Melty?
The key to achieving that perfect melty cheese dip lies in how you mix and bake. Here are some helpful tips:
- Soften the cream cheese fully before mixing; this helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for layered flavor, and save some mozzarella for the top for extra stretch.
- Bake just until bubbly and golden; overbaking can make the cheese tough. Aim for 20-25 minutes.
- If it looks too brown but isn’t bubbling yet, cover it with foil until it finishes baking.
Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup pizza sauce (marinara or traditional pizza sauce)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip takes about 15 minutes to prep and then 20-25 minutes to bake. So overall, you can have this delicious treat ready in around 40-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your tasty dip!
2. Make the Creamy Base:
In a mixing bowl, grab that softened cream cheese and sour cream. Blend them together until it’s nice and smooth. You can use an electric mixer for this or a sturdy whisk—whatever you prefer!
3. Add Your Cheeses and Seasoning:
Now, stir in 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together really well, so those flavors combine nicely.
4. Build the Layers:
Take half of your creamy mixture and spread it evenly on the bottom of a 9-inch round baking dish. This will be your first layer!
5. Pour on the Pizza Sauce:
Next, take your pizza sauce and spread it right over the cream cheese layer. It’s like the sauce on a pizza—delicious!
6. Sprinkle the Cheddar Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pizza sauce. This adds a wonderful flavor and texture!
7. Complete the Cream Cheese Layer:
Spread the rest of your cream cheese mixture over the cheddar. You want it well covered!
8. Add the Finishing Touch:
Top it off with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, then arrange those pepperoni slices artfully on top.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Pop your dish in the oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. You want to see it bubbling and turning a lovely golden brown.
10. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, take it out carefully (it’s hot!) and let it cool for a few minutes. If you want, you can top it with some freshly chopped basil for extra flavor and a pop of color.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip warm alongside toasted baguette slices, crackers, or your favorite dipping snacks. Dive in and enjoy every cheesy bite!
This dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a cozy snack at home. Enjoy your cheesy creation! 🎉
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are traditional choices for their meltability, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda for a smoky flavor or pepper jack for some heat. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may change slightly.
Can I Make This Dip Spicy?
Sure! To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or using a spicy pepperoni. You can also use a spicy pizza sauce to kick it up a notch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven until bubbly again, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the dip in advance! Assemble the layers in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time as needed.
