Description
A delicious and easy-to-make baked pepperoni dip that combines creamy cream cheese, tangy pizza sauce, savory pepperoni, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, this dip is a crowd-pleaser ideal for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
Dip Ingredients
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- 14 ounces pizza sauce
- 6 ounces pepperoni slices, cut into quarters
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Select your favorite small baking dish or a 9-inch pie plate. Evenly spread the softened cream cheese on the bottom of the dish to create a smooth base layer.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the cream cheese. Sprinkle half of the quartered pepperoni slices on top of the pizza sauce. Then layer the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni and sauce. Finally, add the remaining pepperoni pieces on top to finish the layering.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese has completely melted and the dip starts to bubble around the edges, indicating it is hot and ready.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh flavor and appealing presentation. Serve warm with pita chips, tortilla chips, baguette slices, or crackers for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute pizza sauce with marinara or your favorite tomato-based pasta sauce.
- For spicier flavor, use spicy pepperoni or add red pepper flakes to the sauce layer.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to allow easy spreading and smooth layering.
- This dip can be prepared in advance, assembled, and refrigerated before baking—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
