Delicious Baked Pizza Dip Recipe: A Cheesy, Savory Snack for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a snack that’s sure to be a hit at your next party or game day event, this Pizza Dip is your go-to recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory toppings, it's an absolute flavor bomb that brings together all the best things about pizza, but in dip form. The blend of cream cheese, sour cream, Italian sausage, and mozzarella will make your taste buds sing, while the pizza sauce and toppings take this dip to the next level. Trust me, this dip will disappear from the table in minutes!

Photo byRecipes on a Budget

I first came across this amazing recipe in the Recipes on a Budget Facebook Group here, and I couldn't resist trying it out for myself. Now, I’m excited to share it with you! The beauty of this dish is its simplicity—you can easily tailor it to your favorite pizza toppings, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

A Little Backstory on My Pizza Dip Experience

The first time I made this dip, I was hosting a small get-together with friends. I wanted something simple yet indulgent, and this pizza dip checked all the boxes. It combines the creaminess of a cheese dip with the bold flavors of a pizza, making it a rich and comforting dish that everyone couldn’t stop raving about. With minimal prep and big flavors, this dip has now become one of my go-to recipes for any gathering!

Origins of Pizza Dip

Though Pizza Dip may not have a long-standing cultural history like some classic Italian dishes, it’s a fun modern twist on pizza, created to capture all the flavors we love in a convenient, shareable form. It’s essentially comfort food at its finest—melting together beloved pizza ingredients in a way that’s perfect for parties. The addition of various toppings, from Italian sausage to mini pepperonis, adds a level of customization that brings out your inner pizza chef!

The Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 oz softened cream cheese
• 8 oz sour cream
• 2-3 teaspoons oregano (or to taste)
• 2-3 teaspoons garlic powder (or to taste)
• 2-3 teaspoons ranch seasoning (or to taste)
• 1 jar pizza sauce (around 14-16 oz)
• 1 lb cooked Italian sausage
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Mini pepperonis (a few ounces)
• Bacon bits (a handful)

Instructions:

1. Mix the base: Combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream in a bowl. Add in the oregano, garlic powder, and ranch seasoning. I like to eyeball these seasonings, but you can always adjust based on your taste preferences.
2. Spread: Take this creamy mixture and spread it evenly into the bottom of a baking dish (an 8x8 inch dish works perfectly for this).
3. Layer the pizza sauce: Spread the pizza sauce on top of the cream cheese and sour cream mixture. This adds that tangy, rich tomato flavor you’d expect from a great pizza!
4. Add toppings: Now, let your creativity shine! I used Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, mini pepperonis, and bacon bits, but feel free to add your favorite toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake the dip for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
6. Serve hot: Grab some tortilla chips, breadsticks, or crackers and dive in! Enjoy the delicious, gooey goodness of this crowd-pleasing dip.

Variations for Different Tastes

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and bacon and load up on veggies like mushrooms, olives, and spinach.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for some heat.
• Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks for dipping!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pizza Dip:

• Cream Cheese Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is well-softened before mixing to ensure a smooth, creamy base.
• Cheese Layering: To get a perfect cheesy top, add half the mozzarella between the sauce and the toppings, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for an extra gooey layer.
• Serving Suggestions: This dip pairs well with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or even fresh veggies for a lighter option. It’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, or as a simple appetizer for your next dinner party.

Final Thoughts

I hope you love this pizza dip as much as I do! It’s become a staple at all my gatherings, and I’m sure it will be a hit at yours, too. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and flavors to make it your own!

If you enjoyed this recipe, hit that follow button and leave a comment below to let me know what toppings you used! Feel free to share this with your friends and family who are always looking for easy, delicious party snacks!