Description
Quick and crowd-pleasing pioneer woman pizza dip blends classic Italian flavors into a creamy, cheesy appetizer. Guests will devour this delightful starter that brings zesty pizza essence to party snacking.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 blocks (8 oz/226 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups (480 ml) grated mozzarella
- 1 ½ cups (360 ml) grated parmesan
- 1 cup (240 ml) marinara sauce
- ½ cup mini pepperoni
- ¼ cup (60 ml) diced red onion
- ¼ cup (60 ml) diced green bell pepper
- ¼ cup (60 ml) sliced black olives
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- Toasted baguette slices or garlic toast, for serving
Instructions
- Crisp Pepperoni Preparation: Arrange mini pepperoni slices on a paper towel-lined plate, microwave for 45 seconds, and blot excess oil gently to enhance crispiness.
- Creamy Cheese Base: Blend softened cream cheese, parmesan, and Italian seasoning into a smooth, uniform mixture that will serve as the foundational layer.
- Layer Construction: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, creating a consistent base, then cascade marinara sauce across the surface.
- Cheese Medley: Generously coat the marinara with mozzarella and parmesan, ensuring complete coverage for a rich, melty texture.
- Vegetable and Protein Garnish: Strategically scatter pepperoni, black olives, green bell peppers, and red onions across the cheese layers, distributing ingredients for balanced flavor profile.
- Oven Transformation: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), then bake the assembled dip for 30 minutes until cheese becomes effervescent and slightly golden.
- Final Crisp: Activate broiler for 2 minutes to achieve a caramelized, crunchy cheese topping with attractive browning.
- Serving Presentation: Allow dip to rest 10-15 minutes for structural stability, then serve alongside toasted baguette slices or garlic toast for an irresistible appetizer experience.
Notes
- Crisp Pepperoni Trick: Microwaving mini pepperoni slices removes excess oil, creating a crunchier, less greasy topping that enhances overall texture and flavor.
- Layer Like a Pro: Spread cream cheese mixture evenly to ensure consistent base and prevent uneven cooking or thick/thin spots in the dip.
- Cheese Melt Mastery: Use both mozzarella and parmesan for complex, rich cheese flavor and perfect golden-brown bubbling surface.
- Broil Bonus: The final 2-minute broil creates a deliciously crispy cheese crust that elevates the entire dip’s visual and taste experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg