Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe

Alright, friends, if you’re ready to turn your snack game up a notch, let me introduce you to the ultimate pizza dip that’s basically a cheese lover’s dream come true!

I adore making dishes that meld the coziness of known flavors with the stimulation of something novel. My Pepperoni Pizza Dip is a creamy, cheesy marvel that comes together with softened cream cheese, the nearly indispensable tang of sour cream, and—let’s not kid ourselves—loads of mozzarella.

Sliced pepperoni ensures that each dip is packed with the flavor of your favorite slice (not to mention the flavor of slightly undercooked dough, which we all know is part of the pizza experience).

Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe Ingredients

• Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the dip.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Offers a deliciously melty consistency and mild flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharper taste and complements mozzarella well.
• Pepperoni: Savory and spicy, it gives the dip its classic pizza flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: Adds tangy tomato flavor, balancing the creamy elements.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the dip with aromatic depth.
• Oregano and Basil: Infuse an Italian herb essence, reminiscent of traditional pizza.

Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni, chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make this Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe

1. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) for a preheat.

2. In a median-sized bowl for mixing, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until you have something that is smooth and well blended.

3. Combine the cream cheese mixture with the garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried basil.

4. Evenly spread the mixture of cream cheese into the bottom of the baking dish or pie pan.

5. Spread the marinara or pizza sauce over the cream cheese layer, pouring it evenly.

The key is to get it even. And the sauce should be well seasoned.

6. Spread the sauce over the crust. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the sauce, creating a thick cheese layer.

7. Spread the chopped pepperoni evenly across the cheese layer.

8. If you are using them, scatter the black olives and the diced green bell pepper over the top.

9. You can add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

10. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese has reached a bubbly, lightly golden state. Remove from oven and serve hot with any combination of the following:

chocolate-dipped potato chips (yes, really; see p. 128)

classic tortilla chips

pizza-flavored Breadsticks

veggies (raw or baked) dippable in cheese

Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Medium mixing bowl
3. Mixing spoon or spatula
4. Baking dish or pie pan
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• Can I make this dip ahead of time?Certainly, the dip may be readied a day prior to when it is to be served. It may be placed in the refrigerator, where it can remain until it is time, nearby the appointed hour, to serve it, to make it the dip delight it is.
• What can I serve with this dip?This dip is complementary to and serves well with things such as crusty bread, tortilla chips, pita chips, or sliced vegetables. Consider dipping into this with the following: carrots and celery.
• Can I substitute the pepperoni with another topping?Of course! Cooked sausage, bacon, or a vegetarian option like mushrooms can be used for a different flavor.
• Is it possible to make this dip vegetarian?Yes, just leave off the pepperoni or substitute it with a vegetarian alternative, such as sliced mushrooms or extra veggies.
• How should leftover dip be stored?Keep any remaining dip in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Heat in the oven or microwave until warm, and consume.
• Can I use low-fat versions of the ingredients?You are permitted to use low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise if these are your preferred ingredients for a lighter version.
• Will other types of cheese work in this recipe?Certainly! Mixing your cherished cheeses like provolone or parmesan to cater to your taste inclination is entirely doable.

Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe Substitutions and Variations

8 oz cream cheese, softened: replace with 8 oz Neufchâtel cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: substitute with 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: substitute with 1 cup cheese, Monterey Jack, shredded
1/2 cup sliced salami, chopped: substitute with 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni, chopped.
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: substitute with 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning.

Pro Tips

1. Blend the Cheese Base Thoroughly Make sure the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise are at room temperature and well-blended to avoid lumps. This will create a smooth and creamy base for the dip.

2. Seasoned Sauce Taste your marinara or pizza sauce before using it. If it’s not flavorful enough, consider adding more spices like garlic powder, oregano, or basil to enhance its flavor.

3. Cheese Mix Variation For a more complex flavor, consider mixing different cheese types, such as a bit of parmesan or provolone along with the mozzarella and cheddar.

4. Even Topping Distribution When layering toppings like pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers, distribute them evenly to ensure every bite is balanced and flavorful.

5. Baking Dish Choice Use a shallow baking dish or pie pan to ensure even cooking and bubbling of the cheese. A deeper dish may result in an uneven bake.