Description
Hot Honey Pepperoni Sausage Pizza Dip is a decadent and spicy appetizer that combines creamy cheeses, savory Italian sausage, mini pepperoni slices, and a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey. Perfectly baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh basil, this dip is a crowd-pleaser for game days, parties, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
Meat and Toppings
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/3 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 2 tablespoons hot honey
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the dip evenly.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it browns until fully cooked through; then drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness in the dip.
- Mix Cheese and Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, pizza sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and evenly incorporated.
- Combine with Sausage and Pepperoni: Fold the cooked sausage and half of the mini pepperoni slices into the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish, smoothing the surface evenly for consistent baking. Sprinkle the remaining mini pepperoni slices on top of the dip.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly around the edges and lightly golden on top.
- Add Hot Honey Topping: Remove the dip from the oven and immediately drizzle the hot honey evenly over the surface to add a sweet and spicy contrast.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve warm alongside toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping to enjoy the best flavors and textures.
Notes
- Reduce or omit crushed red pepper flakes and use milder honey for a less spicy, more kid-friendly version.
- Substitute Italian sausage with spicy chorizo to give the dip a smoky and bold twist.
- Perfect for game day snacks, parties, or any casual appetizer night.
- For extra gooeyness, sprinkle an additional handful of mozzarella on top before baking.
