Name: Pepperoni Pizza Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sour cream or mayonnaise (optional); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce; 15–20 slices pepperoni; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish); Breadsticks, crackers, or sliced baguette, for serving

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is like eating a slice of pepperoni pizza in scoopable form. It’s simple to make, incredibly comforting, and a hit with both kids and adults. With gooey cheese, rich sauce, and crispy toppings, it’s packed with flavor and easy to customize. Plus, it pairs perfectly with breadsticks, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.

Ingredients

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

Cream cheese, softened
Sour cream or mayonnaise (optional, for added creaminess)
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Pizza sauce or marinara sauce
Sliced pepperoni
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
Breadsticks, crackers, or sliced baguette, for serving

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sour cream or mayo (if using), garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
Spread the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish or pie plate.
Spoon pizza sauce evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the sauce.
Top with sliced pepperoni and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden.
Let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm with your favorite dippers.

Servings and timing

Serves 8–10 as an appetizer
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

Meat lover’s dip: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or ground beef along with the pepperoni.
Veggie version: Top with sautéed mushrooms, olives, bell peppers, or onions.
Extra cheesy: Add layers of ricotta or provolone for even more creamy texture.
Spicy twist: Use spicy pepperoni and add more red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
Mini servings: Bake the dip in individual ramekins for single-serve portions.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly or microwave individual portions. For best results, stir before reheating to evenly distribute the cheese. Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy base, which may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best kind of cheese to use?

Mozzarella is classic for that stretchy, melty texture, but you can also add provolone, cheddar, or a pizza blend.

Can I use pizza sauce and marinara interchangeably?

Yes, though pizza sauce is usually thicker and more flavorful. Either will work.

Is this dip spicy?

Only mildly, depending on the pepperoni and any red pepper flakes used. Adjust to your taste.

Can I make it without cream cheese?

Cream cheese gives it a creamy base, but you can try using ricotta or a cheese spread as an alternative.

What should I serve with this dip?

Breadsticks, garlic bread, crackers, sliced baguette, pita chips, or even raw veggies like bell peppers work great.

Can I use mini pepperoni?

Yes, mini pepperoni or chopped slices distribute nicely across the top.

Can I cook this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes. Mix and heat on low for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally until melted and bubbly.

What size dish should I use?

An 8×8-inch dish or a round pie plate works well for this recipe.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream cheese base may become grainy once thawed.

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pizza Dip is the ultimate cheesy, savory appetizer that turns classic pizza flavors into an easy-to-make, shareable dip. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving comfort food, this bubbling, melty dish is sure to please. Serve it hot with your favorite dippers and enjoy every gooey, pepperoni-packed bite.

Pepperoni Pizza Dip

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Pepperoni Pizza Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer that layers creamy cheese, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni. Baked until bubbly, it’s perfect for dipping with breadsticks, crackers, or veggies at any party or game day gathering.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sour cream or mayo (if using), Italian seasoning, and garlic powder until smooth.
Spread the cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 8×8-inch baking dish or pie plate.
Spoon the pizza sauce evenly over the cheese layer.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Top with pepperoni slices and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm with dippers.

Notes

Use mini pepperoni or chopped slices for even distribution.
Add cooked sausage or sautéed veggies for extra toppings.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
For extra creaminess, mix in ricotta or provolone cheese.
Serve in a pie dish or small casserole dish for best results.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
Calories: 210
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 430mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg