Here’s a recipe for a crowd-pleasing Pepperoni Pizza Dip, perfect for a casual get-together or movie night:
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese (full-fat, softened at room temperature)
- 7 slices pepperoni, thinly sliced (for the cream cheese layer)
- 20 slices pepperoni, thinly sliced (for the top layer)
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, use a spatula to beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Select a baking dish suitable for hot dips. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the bottom of the dish.
- Arrange 7 slices of pepperoni on top of the cream cheese layer in a single layer, pressing them gently into the cheese.
- Sprinkle half of the dried oregano and basil over the pepperoni layer.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the seasoned pepperoni. Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce layer.
- Arrange the remaining 20 slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese, creating another layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining oregano and basil on the top pepperoni layer.
- Top it all off with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The edges might just begin to turn golden brown.
- Take the dip out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents burning mouths.
- Serve the warm and bubbly Pepperoni Pizza Dip with your favorite dipping options like bread slices, crackers, pita bread, or even vegetable sticks like celery and carrot for a healthier twist.
Tips:
- For a spicier dip, use a hot marinara sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese layer.
- You can use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese for convenience.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, add an extra 1/4 cup of shredded cheese or breadcrumbs to the top layer before baking.
- Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Feel free to experiment with other pizza toppings like chopped sausage, diced bell peppers, or sliced black olives for a customized flavor experience.
Pepperoni Pizza Dip
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