Pizza Dip

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If you love everything about a hot, cheesy slice of pizza but want something scoopable and party‑ready, this Pizza Dip is about to become your go‑to appetizer. It’s layered with creamy cheese, rich marinara, bubbling mozzarella, and classic pepperoni, then baked until golden and irresistible.

Served straight from the oven with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies, this dip brings all the comfort of pizza into one warm, shareable dish. It’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, holiday parties, or even a cozy movie night at home.

Why You’ll Love This Pizza Dip

• Packed with classic pizza flavor in every bite.
• Baked until hot, bubbly, and beautifully golden on top.
• Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
• Perfect for parties, potlucks, and casual entertaining.
• Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

What Toppings Work Best for Pizza Dip?

The beauty of Pizza Dip is how flexible it is. While pepperoni is a classic favorite, you can easily swap or add toppings like cooked Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, black olives, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. Just make sure any vegetables are pre‑cooked so the dip doesn’t become watery.

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Ingredients

• Cream cheese – Forms the rich, creamy base of the dip and balances the tangy sauce.
• Italian seasoning – Adds classic herb flavor that mimics traditional pizza sauce.
• Garlic powder – Enhances the savory depth of the cheese layer.
• Marinara or pizza sauce – Brings that signature tomato flavor to the dish.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that iconic stretchy cheese pull.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty finish on top.
• Sliced pepperoni – Provides bold, slightly spicy flavor and classic pizza appeal.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness before serving.

How To Make the Pizza Dip

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and evenly blended.

Step 2: Spread the Cheese Layer

Spread the seasoned cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of a small baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Spoon marinara or pizza sauce over the cream cheese layer. Gently spread it out so it fully covers the base without mixing the layers together.

Step 4: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce, followed by grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Step 5: Finish with Pepperoni

Arrange sliced pepperoni across the top. You can slightly overlap them for full coverage and classic pizza presentation.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden around the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or breadsticks.

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The Best Ways to Serve Pizza Dip (Serves 8)

This Pizza Dip comfortably serves about 8 people as an appetizer. For parties, place it in the center of a large platter surrounded by crackers, crostini, tortilla chips, or sliced vegetables.

You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or even spoon it over toasted sandwich rolls for a quick pizza melt. If you’re hosting a game day spread, pair it with other hearty appetizers for a crowd‑pleasing table.

How to Store Pizza Dip Properly

Allow the dip to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place it in an oven‑safe dish and warm at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in short intervals, stirring gently between bursts to ensure even heating.

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream cheese base may change texture once thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Pizza Dip ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dip up to one day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

2. Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely. Provolone, fontina, or an Italian cheese blend all melt beautifully and add extra flavor depth.

3. How do I make this dip spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture or use spicy pepperoni for a little kick.

4. Can I make this without pepperoni?

Of course. You can keep it vegetarian or substitute with cooked sausage, diced vegetables, or even cooked ground beef.

5. What size baking dish works best?

A small round or square baking dish works well to keep the layers thick and creamy. Avoid using a dish that’s too large, or the dip may spread too thin.

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Want More Appetizer Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Pizza Dip, you might also love these reader favorites:

• Pizza Toast for a quick and satisfying snack.
• Mini Garlic Toast Pizzas that are perfect for parties.
• Bubble-Up Biscuit Pizza Casserole for a fun twist on classic pizza flavors.
• Irresistible Shrimp Crab Spinach Dip if you’re looking for another creamy dip option.

For even more daily recipe inspiration, visit my Pinterest page, Life With Livia, where I share fresh and comforting food ideas every week.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this Pizza Dip to your favorite appetizer board on Pinterest so you can find it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how you customized yours. Did you add extra toppings? Try a different cheese blend?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome too!

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