Hot Pizza Dip
Hot Pizza Dip is a fun and tasty appetizer that brings all the flavors of your favorite pizza into one creamy, cheesy dish. Think of melted mozzarella and cheddar mixed…
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Hot Pizza Dip is a fun and tasty appetizer that brings all the flavors of your favorite pizza into one creamy, cheesy dish. Think of melted mozzarella and cheddar mixed with tangy pizza sauce, spicy pepperoni or your favorite toppings, and herbs like oregano and basil. It’s warm, gooey, and perfect for dipping with crunchy bread, chips, or fresh veggies.
I love making this dip when friends come over because it’s always a hit and so easy to throw together. I usually use a mix of pepperoni slices and a bit of garlic powder to give it a little extra pizzazz. It gets bubbly and golden on top when baked, which makes it even more inviting. Plus, I find it’s great because everyone can customize their dippers, so it feels like a pizza party in dip form.
One of my favorite ways to serve Hot Pizza Dip is right out of the oven, with a big basket of crunchy baguette slices and colorful veggie sticks on the side. It’s a warm, sharing kind of dish that makes any gathering feel cozy and fun. The best part? It’s so simple to make that I often end up munching on it all by myself well before guests arrive!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the dip its creamy base and rich texture. If you want a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese or a blend of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for tanginess.
Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade marinara sauce. If you like a bit of a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or swap for a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully for that stretchy cheese pull, while cheddar adds extra flavor. You can swap cheddar for provolone or Monterey Jack if preferred.
Mini Pepperoni: Traditional pepperoni adds a classic pizza taste. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms, olives, or diced bell peppers instead.
How Can I Get the Best Cheese Stretch and Golden Top?
Getting that gooey cheese pull and a nicely browned top is key for a great pizza dip. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the cream cheese is very soft before mixing. This helps everything blend smoothly.
- Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish so it cooks uniformly.
- Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until you see bubbling around the edges and the top starts to turn golden.
- For an extra golden finish, you can briefly broil the dip for 1-2 minutes. Watch it closely to avoid burning!
- Letting the dip rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set a bit, making it easier to scoop without losing the cheese pull.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish or 9-inch skillet – perfect for baking the dip evenly and goes right into the oven.
- Mixing bowl – to blend all the ingredients smoothly and easily.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for mixing and spreading the dip in the dish without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your cheese and seasonings just right for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage or crumbled bacon for a different meaty kick.
- Add chopped black olives or roasted red peppers for extra tang and color.
- Mix in a handful of spinach or artichoke hearts to add some green and make it feel lighter.
- Use a blend of mozzarella and smoked gouda for a mild smoky twist.
How to Make Hot Pizza Dip?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup pizza sauce (marinara or your favorite tomato sauce)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano and basil)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 20-25 slices of mini pepperoni (or regular pepperoni slices cut smaller)
For Serving:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Baguette or crusty bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hot Pizza Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 20-25 minutes to bake. Add a few minutes to cool before serving, so plan for around 35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick, tasty appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the dip.
2. Mix the Dip:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and pizza sauce. Stir until smooth and well blended. Then add the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until evenly incorporated.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Spread the cheese and sauce mixture evenly into a 9-inch oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Arrange the pepperoni slices on top, spreading them out nicely. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until you see bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and starting to brown.
4. Cool and Serve:
Carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to scoop. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if you like. Serve warm with slices of baguette or crusty bread for dipping into the cheesy, pepperoni goodness.
Can I Make Hot Pizza Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip mixture a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before serving. This helps save time when guests arrive.
Can I Use Frozen Pepperoni or Other Toppings?
If using frozen pepperoni or toppings, thaw them fully and pat dry before adding to the dip to avoid extra moisture that can make the dip watery.
How Should I Store Leftover Pizza Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Baguette for Dipping?
You can use crunchy pita chips, tortilla chips, veggie sticks (like carrots or celery), or even pretzel crisps for dipping the hot pizza dip if you want a different texture or a gluten-free option.
