This Baked Garlic Bread Dip is creamy, cheesy, and full of garlic goodness. Perfect for gatherings, it’s a dip that everyone will want to scoop up with freshly baked bread!
I love serving this dip hot with crispy bread on the side. Warning: it becomes a crowd favorite, so be ready to share—or just keep it all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This helps create a rich and creamy base for the dip. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese, which is lower in fat but still creamy.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds a nice texture and mild flavor. If you want a vegan option, you can use cashew cream or tofu blended until smooth.
Cheeses (Mozzarella & Parmesan): I love the blend of mozzarella for gooeyness and Parmesan for its sharpness. Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone or even vegan cheese. Keep in mind that other hard cheeses can replace Parmesan.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here for the best flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but use it sparingly since it’s more concentrated.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the dip. Dried parsley can substitute in a pinch, but fresh gives the best flavor. You might also try chives for a different twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Dip Is Creamy and Not Overbaked?
The key to a perfect texture is the baking time. You want the dip to be bubbly and golden without drying out. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Keep an eye on the dip as it bakes—check around the 20-minute mark. A little golden on top is great!
- Take it out just when it’s bubbling; it will continue to cook slightly after removed from the oven.
- If you want an extra creamy dip, you can mix the cheeses slightly in advance and let them warm up at room temperature before baking.
By following these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy dip that’s perfect for bread or veggies!
Baked Garlic Bread Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Greasing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
For Serving:
- Slices of toasted baguette or crusty bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip requires about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 35 minutes before it’s ready to serve! Perfect for getting your friends together for game night or as a quick snack before dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, the oven is hot and ready for your delicious dip!
2. Mix the Cheeses:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Mix them together until everything is nice and smooth. A spatula works well for this!
3. Add Flavor:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are mixed thoroughly. You want delicious bites every time!
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a small cast iron skillet or a baking dish and grease it with olive oil or butter. This will help prevent the dip from sticking to the dish.
5. Spread the Mixture:
Transfer your creamy cheese mixture into the greased skillet, spreading it evenly across the surface. It’s okay to leave it a bit uneven – it’ll all bake together beautifully!
6. Bake the Dip:
Put the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the dip is bubbly and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. Oh, the aroma will be incredible!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s baked, carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. You can sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley on top for a nice pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve it warm with slices of toasted baguette or crusty bread. Get ready for compliments—everyone will love this creamy, garlicky delight!
Enjoy making this crowd-pleasing appetizer and have fun dipping with friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, you can mix and match based on your preferences. For example, try using gouda or cheddar for a twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly.
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking, and you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Should I Serve with This Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or crispy breadsticks. You can also serve it with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or bell pepper strips for a healthier option!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
