Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble all the layers in your baking dish, cover, and chill in the refrigerator a few hours or even a day ahead. Just bake as usual when ready—add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! The classic combo melts beautifully, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a smoked cheese for added depth. It’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The dip itself is naturally gluten-free if your pizza sauce is. Just serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks instead of bread.

Can I double the recipe for a big crowd?

Definitely. Use a larger baking dish, or make two pans at once. Just keep your layers even so everything bakes up golden and gooey.

Easy Baked Pizza Dip Recipe

Description

This Easy Baked Pizza Dip is a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring layers of creamy cheese, tangy pizza sauce, and savory pepperoni. Perfect for parties, game nights, or any gathering, this dip comes together quickly and bakes to golden, bubbly perfection. Serve it hot with baguette slices, crackers, or chips for a flavor-packed snack everyone will love.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Cheese Layer

16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Sauce Layer

1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce

Toppings

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (remaining from above)
3 ounces pepperoni slices

For Serving

Baguette slices
Crackers
Chips

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9-inch cast iron skillet, 9×9 baking dish, 2 1/2 quart casserole dish, or 9-inch pie plate by setting it aside.
Mix cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/3 cup mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
Assemble the cream cheese layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of your ungreased baking dish. Ensure that you press the mixture up against the sides of the pan to create a firm base for the dip.
Add pizza sauce layer: Evenly spread the pizza sauce or marinara on top of the cream cheese mixture, fully covering it.
Layer cheeses and pepperoni: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese and the 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese over the sauce layer. Then, arrange the pepperoni slices evenly on top of the cheese.
Bake the dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese starts to brown around the edges.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve hot with crispy baguette slices, crackers, or chips for dipping.

Notes

Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
Customize your dip by adding veggies (like bell peppers or olives) beneath the top cheese layer.
Serve the dip immediately for best texture and flavor; the cheese will be perfectly gooey when hot.
This recipe is not vegetarian due to the pepperoni; substitute with vegetarian pepperoni or skip it for a vegetarian version.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 567mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 11g
Cholesterol: 93mg