Pizza Dip Recipe

This easy and cheesy Pizza Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer for game days, parties, or family gatherings. Made with a creamy base, zesty marinara sauce, gooey melted mozzarella, and your favorite pizza toppings, it’s a warm and comforting dip that pairs perfectly with crusty bread, chips, or veggies. Get ready to enjoy the best pizza-inspired snack that’s quick to make and impossible to resist!

Ingredients

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sour cream (can substitute mayonnaise)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon basil
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (plus more for topping)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 15 slices pepperoni
• Crusty bread, pita, tortilla chips, bagel chips, or vegetables for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. For the best consistency, ensure the sour cream is at room temperature. Spread the mixture evenly on the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate, baking dish, or cast-iron skillet.
3. Add the Sauce and Cheese: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top, followed by the mozzarella cheese.
4. Top It Off: Arrange the pepperoni slices or your preferred pizza toppings over the cheese layer.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top starts to turn golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with additional red pepper flakes, freshly ground black pepper, and chopped parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread, chips, or vegetables for dipping.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s loaded with cheesy, pizza-inspired flavors that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the toppings to suit your preferences.

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Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened cream cheese and room-temperature sour cream for the smoothest base.
• Prevent Burning: Keep an eye on the dish in the last few minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
• Serving Ideas: Serve the dip straight from the skillet or transfer it to a serving bowl for presentation.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the pepperoni and load up on veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
• Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce for more heat.
• Cheese Swap: Try a mix of provolone and cheddar for a different cheesy flavor profile.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the baking step and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving for the best results.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to use sausage, ham, cooked bacon, or even pineapple for a Hawaiian twist.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread, pita chips, tortilla chips, bagel chips, or fresh vegetable sticks.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or an assortment of antipasto for a complete appetizer spread.

Enjoy your delicious Pizza Dip!