Description
This creamy Pepperoni Pizza Dip combines the classic flavors of pizza — gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara sauce, zesty pepperoni, and a blend of creamy cheeses — into one irresistible baked dish. Perfectly bubbly and flavorful, it’s an ideal crowd-pleaser for parties, game days, or casual gatherings. Serve it hot with your choice of bread, crackers, or chips for a deliciously shareable treat.
Ingredients
Base Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
Cheese & Sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
Toppings & Seasoning
- ½ cup mini pepperoni slices
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
For Serving
- Crackers, baguette slices, or breadsticks
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat, ensuring it’s ready to bake the dip to a bubbly perfection.
- Mix the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, forming the dip’s rich foundation.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread the creamy mixture evenly into a small baking dish, approximately 8×8 inches in size, to create an even layer.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon the pizza or marinara sauce over the base layer, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top for a gooey, cheesy crust.
- Top with Pepperoni: Arrange the mini pepperoni slices evenly across the cheese layer, ensuring every bite has that signature pizza flavor.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbling around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle dried oregano and fresh basil or parsley on top if using, and serve immediately with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or breadsticks.
Notes
- Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a “supreme” pizza flavor variation.
- Use turkey pepperoni as a lighter alternative to traditional pepperoni.
- Serve the dip with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or your favorite crackers for added crunch.
- Prepare the dip ahead of time and bake it just before serving to save time and enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Dip
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired