Pizza dip with cream cheese is a creamy, cheesy, and super flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. It combines tangy cream cheese with classic pizza toppings like gooey melted cheese, savory pepperoni, and zesty tomato sauce. The melted cheeses and rich cream cheese create a smooth base that’s just irresistible.
I love making this dip for game days or casual get-togethers because it’s really easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. One of my favorite parts is how you can customize it with your favorite pizza ingredients—olives, peppers, or even sausage work great. It’s a simple way to bring pizza flavors to a dip form, which everyone seems to enjoy.
For serving, I like to pair this dip with crunchy tortilla chips or warm slices of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dunking and sharing, and I always find myself going back for just one more bite. If you need a quick and tasty appetizer that doesn’t require much fuss, this cream cheese pizza dip is a winner every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base and makes the dip creamy and smooth. If you want a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but the same texture. Make sure it’s softened so it mixes well.
Mozzarella & Cheddar Cheese: Mozzarella gives stretchiness and mild flavor, while cheddar adds sharpness. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby if you prefer something milder.
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought marinara works well here. For a fresher taste, you can use homemade tomato sauce seasoned with garlic and herbs. Just avoid very watery sauces to keep your dip thick.
Pepperoni: Classic pizza topping adds flavor and texture. For a vegetarian dip, try chopped bell peppers, olives, or mushrooms instead.
How Do I Get the Dip Perfectly Gooey and Well-Baked?
Getting the right bake on this dip is key. You want the cheese melted and bubbly but not burnt. Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Spread layers evenly so the heat reaches every part.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes — watch the top. It should be golden brown but not too dark.
- Let the dip rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to thicken slightly, making it easier to scoop.
Using an oven-safe dish with shallow sides helps the dip heat evenly, while spreading the pepperoni slices on top lets them crisp up just enough, adding a nice texture boost.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe baking dish – perfect for even cooking and easy to serve straight from the oven.
- Mixing bowl – to combine cream cheese and shredded cheeses smoothly.
- Spoon or spatula – helps spread the cheese mixture evenly in the dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of cheese, sauce, and spices without guesswork.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage for a heartier, meaty flavor.
- Add chopped black olives or green bell peppers to sneak in some veggies and extra taste.
- Use mozzarella and pepper jack cheese for a little spicy kick in the dip.
- Top with fresh basil or oregano after baking for a fresh, herby note.
Delicious Pizza Dip with Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 20-25 mini pepperoni slices
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake. After baking, let it cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. So, altogether, you’ll need around 35 minutes from start to ready-to-eat dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the dip.
2. Mix the Cheese Base:
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is smooth and well mixed.
3. Assemble the Dip Layers:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish or an oven-safe round dish. Pour the pizza sauce on top, making sure to cover the cheese mixture completely. If you like, sprinkle grated Parmesan over the sauce. Then, arrange pepperoni slices evenly across the top.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool a bit to thicken. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Cream Cheese?
It’s best to use cream cheese that’s fully thawed and softened for easy mixing. Thaw frozen cream cheese overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Pizza Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dip up to step 6, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, add the pepperoni and bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Pepperoni?
No pepperoni? No problem! Try sliced sausage, cooked bacon bits, or diced veggies like bell peppers and olives for a tasty twist.
