This Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip is a fun twist on a favorite meal! With creamy cheese, juicy pineapple, and tasty ham, every bite is packed with flavor.
This dip is a perfect party snack. I always serve it with crispy tortilla chips, and trust me, it disappears fast! Who wouldn’t want pizza in dip form? 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of the dip, giving it a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese. You can also use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and cheddar provide great flavor and melting qualities. Feel free to use a blend of your favorite cheeses, like Gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce works well, but homemade is even better! For a quick substitute, use marinara sauce or even ketchup in a pinch. Keep it simple and tasty!
Diced Ham: Cooked ham is traditional, but leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey also makes a great swap. For a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or another veggie!
Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple is a great option, but canned works just fine. Make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dip. If you’re not a fan of pineapple, sweet bell peppers can add a nice twist!
How Can I Make Sure My Dip is Creamy and Not Dry?
To achieve the perfect creamy dip, start by properly mixing your ingredients. Ensure the cream cheese is softened, making it easier to blend smoothly with the other cheeses.
- Mix the cream cheese with the pizza sauce thoroughly before adding the other cheeses. This helps incorporate more moisture.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Overcooking can lead to a dry dip, so start checking around the 20-minute mark.
- If it begins to look golden too early, cover it loosely with foil for the remaining time to keep it moist.
This dip is all about balance, so feel free to adjust the amounts of each ingredient based on your taste. Enjoy it warm for the best experience!
Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks, drained and chopped if large
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- Optional: tortilla chips, baguette slices, or crackers for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick and delicious appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gets everything ready for your dip to bake to perfection!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pizza sauce, and both shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Add Ham and Pineapple:
Now, fold in most of the diced ham and pineapple chunks. Save a bit of each for later to add on top for extra flavor and presentation.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer your creamy mixture into a baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks well. This is where the magic happens!
5. Top It Off:
Sprinkle the reserved ham and pineapple chunks right on top of the mixture. This will give a nice look and extra bites of flavor.
6. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Just a few minutes of waiting!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the dip warm with your choice of tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or crackers for a fun, shareable snack. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of your Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip!
This tasty dip is sure to be a hit! Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that everyone loves!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used in this recipe for a lighter version. It will still provide a creamy base, but be aware that it might not be as rich in flavor.
What Can I Substitute for the Ham?
If you prefer a meatless option, diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms make great substitutes. Alternatively, shredded rotisserie chicken could work well if you still want some protein.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave before enjoying it again!
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip, assemble it in the baking dish, and then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a chilled dip.
