Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Pizza Dip is a warm, cheesy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings all the flavors of your favorite pizza in a creamy, scoopable form. With layers of gooey cheese, rich marinara, and your favorite toppings, it’s perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you need a quick and satisfying snack. Serve it with breadsticks, crackers, or veggies—it’s always a hit!
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cream cheese (softened)sour cream or mayonnaiseItalian seasoningsalt and black peppermarinara or pizza saucemozzarella cheese (shredded)Parmesan cheese (grated)pepperoni slices (or favorite pizza toppings)optional toppings: olives, bell peppers, mushrooms, cooked sausagefresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sour cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Top with a layer of marinara sauce, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Add pepperoni slices or other desired toppings over the cheese layer.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the cheese is golden on top.
Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired.
Serve immediately with toasted bread, crackers, chips, or fresh veggies.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 20–25 minutesTotal time: 30–35 minutes
Variations
Use ricotta instead of cream cheese for an Italian twist.
Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for variety.
Make it vegetarian with just cheese and veggie toppings.
Top with a drizzle of garlic butter for extra flavor.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds.Not recommended for freezing, as dairy may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
What size dish should I use?
An 8×8-inch baking dish or small cast-iron skillet works perfectly.
Can I use pizza sauce instead of marinara?
Absolutely—either will work depending on your flavor preference.
Is it spicy?
Not unless you add spicy toppings or seasonings.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat gives the richest flavor and texture.
What’s best for dipping?
Toasted baguette slices, tortilla chips, pita chips, or fresh veggies all work great.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger dish and increase bake time slightly.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 1–2 hours or until heated through and bubbly.
Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely—just use classic toppings like cheese and pepperoni.
How do I get the cheese golden?
Broil for the last 1–2 minutes if desired for a bubbly, golden top.
Conclusion
Easy Pizza Dip is everything you love about pizza—warm, cheesy, and full of flavor—made into a shareable, scoopable appetizer. Quick to throw together and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect party dish that disappears fast. Serve it hot and watch the crowd go wild!
PrintEasy Pizza Dip
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pizza Dip is layered with creamy cheese, savory marinara, melted mozzarella, and all your favorite pizza toppings. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate appetizer for parties, game day, or anytime you’re craving pizza without the crust!
Ingredients
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1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
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1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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12-15 slices pepperoni
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Optional toppings: chopped bell peppers, black olives, mushrooms, crumbled sausage
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Optional garnish: chopped fresh basil or parsley
For Serving:
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Toasted baguette slices
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Breadsticks
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Crackers
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Tortilla chips
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or pie plate.
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Mix the base:
In a bowl, stir together softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Spread evenly in the bottom of your baking dish. -
Layer the dip:
Spread marinara sauce over the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. -
Add toppings:
Arrange pepperoni slices and any other desired toppings on top of the cheese layer. -
Bake:
Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for an extra 1–2 minutes if you like the top golden and slightly crispy. -
Serve hot with your favorite dippers and enjoy!
Notes
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Use whipped cream cheese for easier spreading.
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Make it spicy with crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
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This recipe is easy to double for a larger crowd!
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