Description
This Pizza Dip with Pepperoni Toppings is a creamy, cheesy, and pepperoni-packed appetizer that offers all the delicious flavors of pizza in a quick and easy-to-share dip. Perfect for game days, parties, or cozy nights, this warm dip blends Italian herbs, marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and authentic pepperoni slices to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: Start by softening the cream cheese either by leaving it out at room temperature or warming briefly in the microwave. This ensures the cream cheese is smooth and easy to mix.
- Mix in Marinara and Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly.
- Add Shredded Cheese and Pepperoni: Fold in the shredded mozzarella and half of the pepperoni slices, making sure the mixture is well incorporated for a cheesy and flavorful dip.
- Transfer and Top: Spread the mixture evenly in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Arrange the remaining pepperoni slices on top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese to form a golden, bubbling crust.
- Bake Until Warm and Bubbly: Bake the dip in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden at the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions or fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dippers such as pita chips, bread slices, or veggie sticks.
Notes
- Use full-fat cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
- Pre-slice pepperoni to evenly distribute its flavor throughout the dip.
- Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness; remove as soon as the dip is bubbly.
- Use an oven-safe dish that retains heat to keep your dip warm longer.
- Serve hot to enjoy the best ooey-gooey texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: pizza dip, pepperoni dip, party dip, cheesy dip, easy appetizer, game day snack, Italian dip, baked dip