This Pepperoni and Cream Cheese Pizza Dip is a fun and cheesy dish perfect for sharing! It’s packed with tasty pepperoni, gooey cream cheese, and Italian seasonings—just like your favorite pizza!
It’s super easy to whip up, and I love serving it with crunchy chips or breadsticks for dipping. Trust me, everyone will want to dig in, and you’ll want to keep some for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: The base of this dip! Softened cream cheese creates a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or light cream cheese instead, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Pizza Sauce: I love using pizza sauce for its bold flavors. If you don’t have any, marinara sauce or even spaghetti sauce works well too. You could customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that gooeyness we all love, while Parmesan adds a nice touch of flavor. You can use cheddar for a different taste or a mix of cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous!
Pepperoni: The classic topping! If you’re vegetarian or want something different, try using sliced mushrooms or olives instead. For a little heat, spicy pepperoni or even diced jalapeños work great!
Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley not only brightens up the dish but adds freshness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs are fine—just reduce the amount as they’re more concentrated in flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Dip is Extra Creamy and Delicious?
For that perfect creamy texture, it’s key to ensure your cream cheese is properly softened. You can let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it on low for 10-15 seconds, just until it’s soft but not melted.
- Mix the cream cheese with pizza sauce thoroughly. This ensures even flavor throughout.
- Don’t skimp on the cheese layers! The more cheese, the creamier the dip!
- Watch the baking time closely. Pull it out when the cheese is bubbly and just starting to brown for that ideal texture.
How to Make Pepperoni And Cream Cheese Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 ml) pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) sliced pepperoni
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Fresh basil or parsley, thinly sliced for garnish
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and warm for baking your dip!
2. Mix the Base:
In a mixing bowl, take the softened cream cheese and pizza sauce. Use a fork or a mixer to blend them together until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy base of your dip!
3. Spread the Mixture:
Next, spread the cream cheese and pizza sauce mixture evenly into a small oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Make sure it’s an even layer so it bakes nicely.
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. The more cheese, the more gooey and delicious your dip will be!
5. Layer the Pepperoni:
Now, arrange the slices of pepperoni over the cheese layer. Feel free to cover the dip with as much pepperoni as you like—you can never have too much!
6. Season It:
Sprinkle the Italian seasoning or dried oregano over the entire dip for added flavor. This gives it that pizza taste we all love.
7. Drizzle Olive Oil:
If you’d like extra richness, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top. This is optional but adds a nice touch!
8. Bake It:
Place your dip in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.
9. Garnish:
Once out of the oven, remove the dip and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm pizza dip with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips. Dive in and enjoy this tasty treat with friends and family!
Enjoy this gooey, savory dip that tastes just like pizza in every bite! Perfect for parties, game nights, or movie marathons!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes! You can definitely use low-fat or light cream cheese as a substitute. Keep in mind that it may result in a slightly different texture and flavor, but it will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try using turkey pepperoni for a leaner option or diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a vegetarian twist!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake it, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or in the microwave.
