Why Make This Recipe
Pizza Dip is the perfect party appetizer that everyone loves! It combines the delicious flavors of pizza into a warm, cheesy dip that is easy to share. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a birthday party, or just looking for a savory snack, Pizza Dip is a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to prepare and will have your guests digging in for more.
How to Make Pizza Dip
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni
- 2 (8-oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan, divided
- 1 Tbsp. dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce, divided
- 2 cups grated mozzarella, divided
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives, divided
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper, divided
- 1/4 cup diced red onion, divided
- Toasted baguette slices, to serve
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Place the pepperoni on a paper towel-lined plate and microwave on high for 45 seconds to remove excess oil.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, 1/2 cup parmesan, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Spread this mixture evenly in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate.
- Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce over the cream cheese mixture.
- Top with 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup parmesan, and 2 tablespoons each of pepperoni, black olives, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining marinara, mozzarella, parmesan, pepperoni, black olives, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbling and browned, about 30 minutes.
- Increase the oven to broil and bake for an additional 2 minutes.
- Let cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving with toasted baguette slices.
How to Serve Pizza Dip
Serve Pizza Dip warm with toasted baguette slices. You can also include tortilla chips or vegetable sticks for dipping. This dip is great for sharing, so set it out on a table or counter for everyone to enjoy!
How to Store Pizza Dip
Leftover Pizza Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If you note any excess oil on the surface after reheating, you can gently blot it with a paper towel.
Tips to Make Pizza Dip
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese before starting. It mixes better when it’s at room temperature.
- Feel free to mix and match toppings based on what you like. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach.
- Use a thicker marinara sauce for a richer flavor.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Pizza Dip by simply omitting the pepperoni. Substitute with your favorite vegetables, like artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes, for a fresh twist.
FAQs
Can I make Pizza Dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled.
How can I make this dip spicier?
You can add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage instead of mini pepperoni to give it that extra kick.
Is Pizza Dip gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free baguette slices or chips, Pizza Dip can be a gluten-free appetizer.
Pizza Dip
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 blocks 8-oz. blocks cream cheese, softened Make sure to soften the cream cheese before starting.
- 1 cup marinara sauce, divided Use a thicker marinara sauce for a richer flavor.
Toppings
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni Can substitute with spicy sausage for extra kick.
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan, divided
- 2 cups grated mozzarella, divided
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives, divided
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper, divided
- 1/4 cup diced red onion, divided
- 1 Tbsp. dried Italian seasoning
To Serve
- Toasted baguette slices Also great with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Place the pepperoni on a paper towel-lined plate and microwave on high for 45 seconds to remove excess oil.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the cream cheese, 1/2 cup parmesan, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Spread this mixture evenly in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate.
- Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce over the cream cheese mixture.
Layering
- Top with 1 cup mozzarella, 1/2 cup parmesan, and 2 tablespoons each of pepperoni, black olives, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining marinara, mozzarella, parmesan, pepperoni, black olives, bell pepper, and red onion.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is bubbling and browned, about 30 minutes.
- Increase the oven to broil and bake for an additional 2 minutes.
- Let cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.