Description
This Italian Cream Cheese Dip is a rich and creamy appetizer blending cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and savory pepperoni or salami, flavored with Italian herbs and garlic powder. Perfectly chilled and served with crackers, crostini, or fresh veggies, it’s a crowd-pleaser for parties and gatherings. A vegetarian option is available by omitting the meat, and it can also be baked for a warm, bubbly variation.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni or salami
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Base: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps for a silky dip base.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Stir in the sour cream and mayonnaise, mixing thoroughly until the mixture becomes well combined and creamy to enhance the dip’s texture and flavor.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Mix-ins: Fold in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped pepperoni or salami, distributing ingredients evenly for balanced flavor.
- Season the Dip: Add the fresh basil or dried basil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well to evenly blend all the herbs and spices throughout the dip.
- Chill to Blend Flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dip to firm up slightly.
- Serve: Serve the chilled dip with crackers, crostini, or fresh vegetables as a flavorful appetizer or party snack.
Notes
- For a baked variation, spread the prepared dip into a small baking dish, top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- You can substitute sun-dried tomatoes with roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
- Omit the pepperoni or salami to create a vegetarian-friendly version of the dip.
