Description

This Easy Cheesy Pizza Dip has all the flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza—gooey mozzarella, tangy marinara, creamy base—melted together into the perfect party appetizer. It takes only minutes to prepare, bakes up bubbly and golden, and disappears fast at any gathering.

Ingredients

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
1½ cups shredded mozzarella
¼ cup grated Parmesan
10–12 pepperoni slices
Optional: olives, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, cooked sausage
For dipping: baguette slices, garlic bread pieces, tortilla chips, pretzels

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix the Base

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth.

3. Layer the Dip

Spread the cream cheese mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9-inch dish.
Spoon the marinara sauce over it gently.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
Top with pepperoni and any optional toppings.

4. Bake

Bake 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
(Optional: Broil for 1 minute for extra browning.)

5. Serve

Let rest 5 minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dippers.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for easy spreading.
Shred your own mozzarella if possible — it melts smoother.
If your sauce is very watery, simmer it 2–3 minutes to thicken.
Want crispier pepperoni? Place most slices on top of the cheese.
To reduce oiliness, use turkey pepperoni or part-skim cheese.