Description
This Pepperoni Pizza Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties and gatherings. Combining creamy layers of cream cheese and sour cream with classic pizza flavors like mozzarella, cheddar, pizza sauce, and mini pepperoni, this dip offers a delicious and easy-to-make snack. Baked until bubbly and golden, it pairs wonderfully with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Toppings
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices or regular pepperoni cut into quarters
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your dip is assembled.
- Mix base ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Spread the base: Transfer this creamy mixture evenly into a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, smoothing the surface flat.
- Add pizza sauce: Pour the pizza or marinara sauce over the cream cheese base and spread it evenly to cover.
- Layer cheeses and pepperoni: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly on top of the sauce. Then, distribute the mini pepperoni slices or quartered pepperoni evenly over the cheese layer.
- Top with Parmesan: Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese over all the layers.
- Bake the dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm with toasted bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- For added flavor, incorporate chopped olives, green peppers, or cooked sausage before baking.
- This dip can be prepared ahead and refrigerated prior to baking; if so, add an extra 5 minutes to the bake time.
- To keep the dish gluten-free, serve with gluten-free dippers such as vegetables or gluten-free crackers.
