Cheesy Baked Pizza Dip

This cheesy baked pizza dip transforms classic pizza flavors into a shareable, gooey appetizer perfect for game nights or casual gatherings. Layers of tangy cream cheese and sour cream form a rich base while pizza sauce, Italian sausage, mozzarella, mini pepperoni, and bacon bits create a bubbling, irresistible top. It can be assembled ahead and baked when needed for an effortless crowd-pleaser.

I first made this for a last-minute family movie night and was amazed when the kids scraped the dish clean before the opening credits rolled. Now it is my secret weapon for potlucks.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: eight ounces softened to room temperature creates a tangy rich base that keeps the dip sturdy opt for brick style for the best texture
• Sour cream: eight ounces lightens the creaminess and adds a subtle tang full fat gives a silkier mouthfeel
• Oregano: two teaspoons adds bold herby flavor choose fresh for the most impact
• Garlic powder: two teaspoons adds zesty depth
• Ranch seasoning: two teaspoons adds seasoning boost
• Pizza sauce: fourteen ounces brings classic pizza flavor choose a thicker one for less watery dip
• Italian sausage: one pound cooked and crumbled adds savory depth try hot or mild depending on your preference
• Mozzarella cheese: four cups freshly grated melts into a gooey layer fresh shredding gives best texture
• Mini pepperonis: two ounces bring classic pizzeria flavor seek out mini size for perfect bites
• Bacon bits: two ounces provide smoky crunch real bacon crumbles give most flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees so it is fully heated when you assemble your dip ensuring even browning and melting

Mix the Creamy Base:

Combine softened cream cheese sour cream and seasonings until totally smooth using a hand mixer for a super creamy texture

Spread in Pan:

Spoon the cheese mixture into your selected dish making sure to fill edges and press into an even layer for the right base

Layer Sauce and Sausage:

Gently pour the pizza sauce on top spreading to cover every area then scatter cooked Italian sausage evenly so every scoop gets flavor

Add Cheese and Toppings:

Pile on the freshly grated mozzarella making sure to cover sausage and sauce fully then scatter mini pepperonis and bacon bits for flavor in every bite

Bake to Perfection:

Place in the oven and bake around twenty five minutes watch for the dip to bubble at the edges and the cheese to develop golden spots for ultimate flavor

Serve Hot:

Let cool only a few minutes then serve with sturdy dippers such as baguette slices or crackers while the cheese is at peak gooeyness

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I love how fresh mozzarella makes every bite feel extra special and always brings back memories of my childhood pizza nights. My family always argues over who gets the first scoop with the most pepperoni and bacon.

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in an oven-safe dish until hot and bubbly again. It tastes just as good the next day and makes a swoon-worthy midnight snack.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap turkey sausage for a lighter meat or skip altogether for a vegetarian twist just double up on cheese. Try switching pizza sauce with tomato basil marinara for a fresher note. Use half mozzarella half provolone for a stringy melt if out of mozzarella.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with toasted baguette slices thicker crackers breadsticks or sturdy pita chips. For a fresh contrast serve with sliced red bell peppers or cucumbers. It is a must-have next to a veggie platter.

Make it Your Own

Endless ways to personalize pizza dip add olives jalapenos or chopped bell peppers for color. Sprinkle fresh basil or drizzle spicy honey just before serving. My favorite is a handful of sliced green onions to add zip.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What type of baking dish works best?

An 11-inch pie pan or a 9x9 baking dish ensures even layering and baking.

→ Can it be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to two days ahead and refrigerate. Add about ten extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.

→ What toppings can be added or swapped?

You can add olives, bell peppers, jalapenos, or swap meats for more cheese or veggies.

→ How is it best served?

Serve hot with breadsticks, baguette slices, crackers, or sturdy pita chips for dipping.

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes, omit sausage and bacon, and add more cheese or vegetables for a meatless option.

→ How can I get a crispier topping?

Switch to the broiler for one minute after baking to lightly brown and crisp the cheese layer.