Appetizers - Pizza Dip
Creamy, cheesy pizza dip loaded with pepperoni, onions, and peppers, perfect for sharing at gatherings or game nights with crunchy crackers or bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whip together cream cheese, sour cream, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper until smooth.
- Spread the mixture in an oven-safe pie plate.
- Cover with pizza sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped onions, peppers, and pepperoni slices.
- Top with shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dip, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese into the cream cheese mixture before baking. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist. Experiment with toppings like cooked sausage from the Make Ahead Sausage Casserole or different veggies based on your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pizza dip warm with a variety of dippers such as tortilla chips, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies for a colorful platter. It also pairs beautifully with a side of Select Deli Salad for a complete appetizer spread. For a fun twist, consider offering a selection of toppings on the side, allowing guests to customize their dip.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the cheese to become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Appetizers - Pizza Dip contains roughly 141 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (62% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just assemble the layers in your dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the pepperoni?
If you want a healthier or vegetarian option, try using cooked mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even slices of turkey pepperoni. You can also leave it out altogether if you prefer a cheese and veggie-only dip.
How do I make this dip spicier?
To increase the heat, add more ground red pepper or mix in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust according to your taste, but start with small amounts to avoid overwhelming the other flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).