Description
This cheesy and indulgent pizza fondue dip combines creamy soft cheese, fragrant pizza sauce, and melted mozzarella topped with savory pepperoni. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for dipping with garlic bread, crostini, or breadsticks, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 180g soft cheese
- 10g grated parmesan or vegetarian Italian-style hard cheese
- 100g grated mozzarella, or grated mozzarella & cheddar mix
- Olive oil, for the dish and for drizzling
Other Ingredients
- 200g pizza sauce or passata
- 7–8 slices pepperoni (optional)
- Garlic bread, crostini, or breadsticks, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Tip the soft cheese into a bowl and beat with a whisk to loosen it. Whisk in the grated parmesan and half of the mozzarella, then season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Lightly oil a 15-18cm round baking dish. Spread the soft cheese mixture evenly over the base. Pour the pizza sauce or passata over the cheese and spread it out so it fully covers the layer beneath.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly on top. Arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese if using, then drizzle a little olive oil over the surface.
- Chill (Optional): You can prepare the dip up to two days ahead. If so, cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Bake the dip for 25-30 minutes until it is bubbling and golden on top.
- Prepare Bread: While the dip bakes, cook the garlic bread according to the package instructions, if using.
- Serve: Allow the dip to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with garlic bread, crostini, or breadsticks for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute the soft cheese for cream cheese or ricotta if preferred.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the pepperoni or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or veggies.
- The dip can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated, making it convenient for entertaining.
- Use a good quality pizza sauce or homemade passata for best flavor.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and melted cheese experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: pizza dip, cheesy dip, fondue dip, appetizer, party snack, baked dip, mozzarella dip, pizza sauce dip
