Description
A ridiculously easy and crowd-pleasing dip that combines all the best parts of pizza into one melty, cheesy, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (about 30 slices) pepperoni slices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Soften cream cheese if needed by microwaving for 15-20 seconds.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of an oven-safe baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the cream cheese layer and spread gently to cover.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
- Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese, slightly overlapping for full coverage.
- Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and pepperoni edges start to crisp.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a couple of minutes.
- Sprinkle fresh basil on top if desired and serve warm with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies.
Notes
Softening the cream cheese before mixing ensures a smooth dip. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. Toast pepperoni slices in a skillet for extra crispiness if desired. Avoid overbaking to prevent dry cheese. The dip can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Reheat leftovers gently and add a splash of marinara or water if dry. Do not freeze as texture will degrade.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/6th
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 720
- Fat: 26
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Protein: 16
Keywords: pizza dip, pepperoni dip, easy appetizer, game day recipe, cheesy dip, party food, quick dip