Description
This easy, cheesy pepperoni pizza dip combines a creamy base with tangy pizza sauce, gooey mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni for the ultimate party appetizer. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings, game nights, or cozy snacking.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 cup mini pepperoni slices
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
- Garlic bread, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or sturdy crackers (for dipping)
- Veggie sticks (carrot, celery, bell pepper) for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch round or square oven-safe baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour pizza sauce over the cream cheese base and gently spread to cover.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the sauce, covering completely.
- Arrange mini pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and golden brown at the edges.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley.
- Serve hot with garlic bread, crackers, or veggie sticks for dipping.
Notes
For best results, shred block mozzarella yourself for extra meltiness. Use full-fat cream cheese for a smoother base. Customize with veggies, turkey pepperoni, or dairy-free cheese as needed. If dip seems watery, use a thicker sauce. Prep base and sauce ahead for easy entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1/6th of the r
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Protein: 12
Keywords: pepperoni pizza dip, cheesy dip, party appetizer, mozzarella, pizza dip, easy appetizer, game night snack, comfort food