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This gooey cheesy pizza dip has become my go-to for parties and game nights. It layers tangy cream cheese and sour cream with rich pizza sauce crisp Italian sausage and all your favorite toppings. It is baked until bubbly and served hot right from the oven for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that disappears in minutes.
I discovered this dip when looking for an easy appetizer for my son’s birthday. Now it is on request every time we host friends and everyone always asks for the recipe.
Ingredients
- Cream cheese: softened for easy spreading and tangy richness look for full-fat blocks for the best texture
- Sour cream: adds creaminess and a bit of tang use fresh sour cream without added thickeners
- Oregano, garlic powder and ranch seasoning: bring those classic pizza flavors try to use dried oregano with a strong aroma
- Pizza sauce: the saucy heart of the dip choose a brand that is thick and robust or make your own
- Italian sausage: brings savory meaty depth use good-quality bulk sausage and cook it fully before adding
- Mozzarella cheese: grated fresh for ultimate melt and stretch buy whole blocks and grate at home for best results
- Mini pepperonis: provide bursts of classic pizza flavor look for ones with crispy edges when baked
- Bacon bits: add smoky crunchy contrast use real cooked bacon bits for the best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soften and Mix the Cream Base:
- Let the cream cheese come fully to room temperature for about thirty minutes. In a big bowl mix cream cheese sour cream oregano garlic powder and ranch seasoning with a sturdy spatula until it is completely smooth and fluffy no lumps remain.
- Spread and Layer:
- Scoop the cream base into an eleven inch pie pan or a nine by nine baking dish. Press it into an even layer with a spatula making sure the edges are filled for a tidy look.
- Add Sauce and Sausage:
- Gently pour or spoon pizza sauce all over the cream layer. Using the back of a spoon spread it evenly out to the edges but do not mix it in. Sprinkle cooked Italian sausage evenly on top for pockets of flavor.
- Top with Cheese and More Toppings:
- Scatter freshly grated mozzarella in a thick even layer all over the sausage. Dot the top with mini pepperonis and bacon bits arranging so every scoop will have some of each.
- Bake Until Hot and Bubbling:
- Slide the dish onto the center rack of an oven that has been preheated to four hundred degrees. Let it bake about twenty five minutes. The cheese should be melted and golden at the edges the dip should be bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for three to five minutes. Serve straight from the dish with sturdy dippers like breadsticks chips or sliced veggies.
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This dip makes me think of our last Super Bowl party when everyone gathered around the kitchen table dunking breadsticks and laughing. My daughter loves the crunchy edges of baked cheese the most and always tries to scoop her servings right from the sides.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. The dip keeps its flavor and texture for about three days. Reheat in the oven uncovered at three fifty degrees until heated through for best results. You can freeze portions in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a lighter version swap out half the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. Turkey sausage works in place of Italian sausage for a leaner touch. Vegetarian friends can swap out the sausage and bacon for sautéed mushrooms and extra cheese for savory richness.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve this hot with toasted baguette rounds crisp pita chips or baked breadsticks for classic pizza vibes. I also like to set out carrot and bell pepper sticks for dipping especially when serving kids. If making for a pizza party you can offer small bowls of extra toppings like olives or jalapeños for sprinkling on top.
Cultural and Historical Context
Pizza dip takes its cues from classic American pizza parties turning the flavors of pepperoni and cheese into an easy shareable appetizer. It became popular as a game-day dish in the early two thousands and now you will find it at gatherings year round. This is pure comfort food meant for sharing with a happy crowd.
Recipe FAQs
- → What’s the best way to layer the ingredients?
Start by spreading the cream cheese mixture evenly in your baking dish, then add pizza sauce, top with sausage, mozzarella, and finish with desired toppings.
- → Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to two days in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding 10 minutes to the usual baking time.
- → What toppings can I add?
You can add any favorites: mini pepperonis, bacon bits, olives, or extra cheese. Adjust for your crowd’s preferences—veggies or more meats work great.
- → How should I serve this dip?
Serve hot with sturdy dippers such as baguette slices, breadsticks, or tortilla chips. It’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven.
- → Are there substitutions for Italian sausage?
Ground beef, turkey, or plant-based sausage can be used in place of Italian sausage, depending on your taste or dietary needs.