Easy Cheesy Pizza Dip
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. That means if you click on a link and make a purchase we may receive a small commission. Thank you!
Get ready to wow your guests with the ultimate pizza dip—a hot, cheesy, and irresistibly gooey appetizer that’s perfect for game day parties or family nights!
If you’re searching for the ultimate party snack idea, this pizza dip recipe is just what you need. It’s the perfect easy cheesy appetizer for your Super Bowl or game-day spread. With layers of creamy goodness, savory pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce, this Italian-inspired dip is guaranteed to impress your guests.
This hot pizza dip is a crowd-pleaser that fits seamlessly into your lineup of game day recipes. Its ooey-gooey cheese, bold pepperoni, and comforting flavors make it ideal for football parties, family nights, or casual get-togethers. Pair it with wings, nachos, or sliders for a spread that will leave everyone raving.
You’ll love how quick and easy this homemade pizza dip is to prepare. Using simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, it comes together in just 10 minutes before baking to bubbly perfection. Whether for a potluck or a cozy night in, its cheesy, gooey goodness is sure to win over kids and adults alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cream cheese (softened): The creamy, tangy base that gives the dip its rich texture. Make sure to let it sit out for awhile to soften before using so it mixes together with the other ingredients easily.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: We highly recommend a good quality mozzarella that you shred yourself to ensure it melts into a gooey, stretchy layer of cheesy perfection.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dip its signature pizza flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: A touch of heat to balance the creaminess and add depth.
- Marinara sauce: A good pizza requires a delicious sauce. Use your favorite tomato sauce…we prefer marinara!
- Mini pepperonis: The perfect topping for a classic pizza flavor in every bite. We’ve gone with the basic pepperoni topping but you can customize this pizza dip any way you like. See our suggestions below.
Other Topping Suggestions for Pizza Dip
Get creative with these delicious topping ideas to customize your pizza dip:
- Cooked Sausage Crumbles: Add a hearty, savory twist with Italian or spicy sausage.
- Diced Bell Peppers: Bring a pop of color and a slight crunch to your dip.
- Sliced Olives: Black or green olives add a salty, briny flavor.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed or fresh, mushrooms are a great earthy addition.
- Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped basil on top after baking for a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Jalapeños: Add a spicy kick with sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños.
- Pineapple Chunks: For a sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for fans of Hawaiian-style pizza.
- Diced Onions: Use red, white, or green onions for added crunch and zing.
- Crumbled Bacon: Add a smoky, crispy topping that pairs perfectly with the cheesy layers.
How to Make Pizza Dip
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish or a 9-inch pie dish with nonstick spray.
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 4 ounces of mini pepperonis. Mix thoroughly using a spoon or hand mixer.
- Layer the Dip: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into your prepared dish. Layer marinara sauce on top, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Season the Top: Combine the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese with ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the mozzarella.
- Add Pepperonis: Top with the remaining mini pepperonis for that classic pizza look.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- Serve Hot: Pair with toasted bread slices, mini naan, or crackers. Pro tip: Stir the dip once served to ensure all the cheese layers are melty and easy to scoop.
Slow Cooker Pizza Dip
Yes, you can make pizza dip in the slow cooker, and it’s a great option for keeping it warm during parties! Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the Mixture: Combine the cream cheese, 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 4 ounces of mini pepperoni in a bowl. Mix thoroughly.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Spread the cheese mixture on the bottom of the slow cooker. Add a layer of marinara sauce, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning on top. Finish with the remaining mini pepperonis.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, or on high for 1–1.5 hours, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Stir the dip slightly for even gooeyness, then keep it on the “warm” setting for your guests to enjoy throughout the event.
Making pizza dip in the slow cooker is not only convenient but also ensures it stays hot and ready to scoop all party long!
Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Pizza Dip
This dip pairs perfectly with:
- Toast Bread Slices: Crunchy, golden-brown slices are ideal.
- Mini Naan Bread: A soft, pillowy option to soak up all the creamy goodness.
- Vegetable Sticks: Try celery or bell peppers for a low-carb alternative.
- Tortilla Chips: Because chips and dip always belong at a football party!
How to Store and Reheat Pizza Dip
Got leftovers? No problem! This dip is just as delicious reheated.
Storing: Transfer any leftover dip to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place the dip in an oven-safe dish, and bake for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warm and bubbly.
Pro Tip: If the dip seems too thick after reheating, add a small splash of marinara sauce to loosen it up.
Like this recipe?
Make sure to follow us on Instagram and Pinterest for more recipes like this.
Pizza Dip
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
- 12 ounces Shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes
- 1 cup Marinara sauce
- 5 ounces Mini Pepperonis
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly spray an 8×8 inch baking dish or a 9 inch pie dish with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl combine cream cheese, 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, and 4 ounces of mini pepperonis (save the rest for later). Mix together thoroughly using a spoon or a hand mixer.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture into the bottom of the prepared 8×8 inch baking dish or a 9 inch pie dish.
- Spread the marinara sauce on top of the cream cheese mixture then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- In a small bowl combine the remaining ¼ cup of parmesan cheese and the remaining ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture over the mozzarella cheese.
- Top with the remaining mini pepperonis.
- Place in the oven to bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve hot with a side of toast bread slices or mini naan. While not as pretty to look at we suggest giving the dip a good stir after you put it out to get all of the cheese super melty and make it easier to scoop up with your bread.
Nutrition
