Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Pizza Dip with Pepperoni is an easy and fun appetizer perfect for gatherings, game nights, or even just a cozy evening at home. It’s rich, flavorful, and combines everyone’s favorite pizza ingredients into a warm, melty dip. This recipe brings the taste of pizza right to your table without the fuss of making a whole pie.
How to Make Cheesy Pizza Dip with Pepperoni
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
Directions
- Bring the cream cheese to room temperature, then spread it in an even layer in a baking dish. This creamy base acts as the perfect canvas for all the other flavors.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the cream cheese, then sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes on top. These layers bring that classic pizza flavor into the dip.
- Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the surface, ensuring every scoop will be gooey and flavorful.
- Arrange pepperoni slices on top of the cheese for that iconic meaty bite in every dip. Feel free to overlap or nestle slices for maximum taste in every scoop.
- Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling for that irresistible pizza dip experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Pizza Dip with Pepperoni
Serve this cheesy pizza dip warm with various dipping options. Some great choices are tortilla chips, pita chips, sliced baguette, or fresh veggie sticks. Don’t forget to keep extra pepperoni and cheese on the side for those who want to make their dip even more indulgent!
How to Store Cheesy Pizza Dip with Pepperoni
If you have leftovers, let the dip cool and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warm or use the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Tips to Make Cheesy Pizza Dip with Pepperoni
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to spread more easily.
- Customize the dip with your favorite pizza toppings like bell peppers, olives, or sausage.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor, such as adding provolone or cheddar.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Variation
For a healthier version, try using low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheese. You can also swap the pepperoni for turkey pepperoni or skip the meat altogether for a veggie pizza dip.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Assemble all the layers in the dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
Q: What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
A: You can use pizza sauce, spaghetti sauce, or even a homemade tomato sauce if you prefer.
Q: Is this dip gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free dipping options, like veggie sticks or gluten-free chips, the dip itself is gluten-free!