Description
This creamy and savory Pepperoni Dip combines a luscious blend of cream cheese, ranch dressing, Italian seasoning, and multiple cheeses layered with pizza sauce and pepperoni slices. Baked until bubbly and golden, this irresistible appetizer is perfect for parties or casual gatherings, served warm with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or crackers.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pepperoni
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Toppings
- 8 oz pizza sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, quartered
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the dip to perfection.
- Combine base ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and Italian seasoning.
- Cream mixture: Use an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring a uniform texture.
- Add cheeses and chopped pepperoni: Stir in the finely chopped pepperoni, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan cheese until the mixture is fully combined.
- Spread cream cheese layer: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture in the bottom of a 10-inch cast iron skillet or a 9-inch pie plate.
- Add pizza sauce: Spread the pizza sauce over the cream cheese base, covering it completely.
- Top with cheese and pepperoni: Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then evenly distribute the quartered pepperoni slices on top.
- Bake: Place the skillet or pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 17 to 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbling.
- Rest: Remove from the oven and allow the dip to sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly and cool enough for serving.
- Serve: Serve the dip warm with toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, or crackers.
- Enjoy: Dive into this cheesy, meaty, and flavorful pepperoni dip with your favorite dipping accompaniments.
Notes
- Use a cast iron skillet for even heating and rustic presentation, but a pie plate works just as well.
- Adjust the level of pepperoni to your taste, adding more for extra meatiness or less for a milder dip.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or substituting spicy pepperoni.
- Serve immediately after baking for best flavor and texture.
