Tomato Pesto Cream Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to make and packed with flavor. The cream cheese base is smooth and rich, while the sun-dried tomatoes and pesto bring brightness, depth, and savory goodness. It’s ideal for holiday platters, brunch spreads, or as a make-ahead dip that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Sun-dried tomatoes (in oil, drained and finely chopped)
• Basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• Garlic (optional, minced)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, red pepper flakes

Directions

1. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. Stir in the pesto and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Mix until fully combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Transfer to a serving dish and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Before serving, garnish with extra chopped tomatoes, a swirl of pesto, or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired.
6. Serve with crackers, toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or fresh vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 1½ cups of spread.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Layered Dip: Layer cream cheese, pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes in a glass dish for a visual wow factor.
• Whipped Version: Use a food processor to whip for a smoother, fluffier texture.
• Goat Cheese Blend: Mix in some goat cheese for tangy flavor depth.
• Roasted Garlic: Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, mellow flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store Tomato Pesto Cream Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture may change after thawing.
This spread is served cold or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?

Sun-dried tomatoes add a more concentrated flavor and texture. Fresh tomatoes may water down the spread but can be used if well-drained and chopped.

What kind of pesto works best?

Basil pesto is classic, but sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto can also work beautifully.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and check that your pesto is vegan-friendly.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially the pesto) are certified gluten-free.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture will be slightly less rich, it still works well.

How long does it need to chill?

At least 30 minutes, but it can be made a day ahead for even better flavor.

Can I use this as a bagel spread?

Absolutely—it’s fantastic on bagels, toast, or even sandwiches and wraps.

What should I serve with it?

Serve with crackers, crostini, sliced veggies, or use it as a sandwich spread.

Can I pipe this for a fancier presentation?

Yes, chill slightly and use a piping bag to decorate crostini or appetizers.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped pine nuts or walnuts add a great crunch and flavor boost.

Conclusion

Tomato Pesto Cream Cheese is a vibrant, flavorful spread that turns simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a new favorite snack, this creamy, savory blend is quick to prepare and always a hit. Spread it, dip it, or layer it—it’s sure to become a staple in your appetizer lineup.

Tomato Pesto Cream Cheese

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Tomato Pesto Cream Cheese is a creamy, savory spread made with softened cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil pesto. It’s perfect for crackers, bagels, or as a dip for veggies—an easy, flavorful addition to any appetizer spread or snack platter.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling)
• Yield: 1½ cups
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely chopped
• 3 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil pesto. Add garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Mix until fully combined and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or dish and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, optionally garnish with extra chopped tomatoes, a swirl of pesto, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
6. Serve with crackers, crostini, pita chips, or sliced vegetables.

Notes

• Chilling enhances flavor—prepare a few hours ahead for best results.
• Use a food processor for a whipped, ultra-smooth texture.
• Great as a sandwich spread or bagel topping.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg