Can I use homemade marinara sauce for Spicy Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade marinara boosts the flavor and lets you control the seasoning. Just be sure it’s not too watery, or the dip might get soggy.

What can I use instead of sour cream in this dip?

Great question! You can substitute with mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt for a tangier bite, or even cottage cheese blended smooth to keep that creamy texture.

How spicy is the Spicy Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe?

It has a gentle kick thanks to the red pepper flakes, but you can dial the heat up or down easily. If you want it mild, reduce the flakes; if you love heat, add more or toss in some fresh chili peppers.

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the dip up to 3 days in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature before baking. It’s perfect for planning ahead for parties.

Spicy Pepperoni Dip – Irresistible Game Night Appetizer

Description

This Pizza Dip is a creamy, cheesy appetizer perfect for sharing, featuring a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella topped with pepperoni and baked to bubbly perfection. Serve it warm with crusty bread or chips for a crowd-pleasing party snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon dried garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Toppings

1 cup marinara sauce
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1 1/4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
15 slices pepperoni

To Serve

Crusty bread, pita, tortilla, bagel chips, or vegetables

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Instructions

Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the dip.
Mix the base ingredients. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, dried garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes until smooth. For best results, ensure the sour cream is at room temperature to maintain a creamy texture.
Assemble the dip. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan, baking dish, or cast iron skillet.
Add the marinara and cheeses. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the cream cheese layer, then sprinkle evenly with grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella.
Top with pepperoni. Arrange 15 slices of pepperoni or your favorite pizza toppings evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake the dip. Place the assembled dip uncovered in the oven and bake for 30 minutes until the top is bubbly and starting to brown.
Garnish and serve. Optionally, sprinkle additional red pepper flakes, freshly ground pepper, and chopped parsley over the top. Serve warm with crusty bread or preferred dippers.

Notes

Make-Ahead Method: Assemble the dip as directed, cover, and refrigerate up to 3 days before baking. Let the dip sit at room temperature for 25 minutes before baking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella from blocks for better flavor and texture.
Recommended marinara sauces include Rao’s or homemade versions for optimal taste.
Additional toppings such as sausage, mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, beef, ham, pineapple, or feta can be used.
Sour cream can be substituted with mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, or cottage cheese if preferred.
Pair with crusty bread like no-knead bread for the perfect dip experience.
Try this dip before making homemade pizzas such as Buffalo Chicken, Hawaiian, or French Bread Pizza for more pizza-inspired dishes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 670 mg
Fat: 26 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 7 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 12 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg