Pizza dip with cream cheese
Pizza dip with cream cheese is a fun and tasty twist on classic pizza flavors gathered into a creamy, cheesy dip. It typically has melted cream cheese, tangy marinara sauce,…
Tip: save now, cook later.Pizza dip with cream cheese is a fun and tasty twist on classic pizza flavors gathered into a creamy, cheesy dip. It typically has melted cream cheese, tangy marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a mix of pizza toppings you love, all blended together for a perfect party snack or game day treat.
I really enjoy making this dip because it comes together quickly and almost everyone loves it. The cream cheese gives it a smooth, rich texture that holds all the flavors nicely, and you can easily customize it with your favorite pizza extras like pepperoni, olives, or green peppers. It feels like having a pizza party without the crust!
My favorite way to serve this dip is warm, straight out of the oven, with lots of crunchy crackers or toasted bread on the side. It’s perfect when friends stop by or when you want something cozy and simple to share. Whenever I bring this dip to gatherings, it always disappears fast, so I make sure to double the recipe just in case!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base that makes the dip creamy and smooth. Softening it first helps it blend well. If you want a lighter option, try using part-skim ricotta or mascarpone.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara adds classic pizza tomato flavor. You can substitute with pizza sauce or even a chunky tomato salsa for a bit of extra texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that gooey texture we love. Fresh mozzarella works too, but shredded is easier to spread and melt evenly.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni is perfect for even topping, but regular slices cut smaller are just as good. For a vegetarian twist, try sliced olives, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Bubbly and Golden Cheese on Top?
To achieve that beautiful golden cheese layer, start by sprinkling part of your mozzarella inside the mix, and then add the rest on top just before baking. Here’s what helps:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) so the cheese melts evenly.
- Use an oven-safe dish or cast iron skillet to hold heat well and cook the dip all the way through.
- Keep a close eye in the last few minutes. The cheese should bubble and turn golden but not burn.
If you want extra brown spots, you can switch to the broil setting for the last 1-2 minutes—just watch carefully to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish or cast iron skillet – great for even heating and gives a nice crust on the dip.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the cream cheese and sauce smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – perfect for spreading the dip evenly in the dish.
- Cheese grater – if you need to grate fresh Parmesan or mozzarella.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage to add a savory, meaty twist.
- Add chopped black olives or green peppers for extra color and flavor.
- Mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of chili powder for a little heat.
- Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a richer, deeper cheese flavor.
Cream Cheese Pepperoni Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup mini pepperoni slices or regular pepperoni cut into smaller pieces
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in under 40 minutes, you’ll have a hot, cheesy dip ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Mix:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until everything is smooth and mixed well.
2. Layer and Top:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into an oven-safe dish or cast iron skillet. Next, arrange the pepperoni slices evenly on top, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over everything.
3. Bake and Garnish:
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the dip is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown on top. When done, take it out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm dip with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips. Scoop, dip, and enjoy this creamy, cheesy pizza-flavored treat with your favorite dippers!
Can I Use Frozen Cream Cheese?
It’s best to use cream cheese at room temperature for easy mixing. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly soften in the microwave in 10-second bursts, stirring in between.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dip up to step 2, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, add the pepperoni and cheese topping, then bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Substitute Pepperoni with Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Try cooked sausage, olives, mushrooms, or roasted peppers to customize the dip to your taste.