This Roasted Red Pepper Dip is creamy, colorful, and packed with flavor! Made with roasted peppers, cream cheese, and a hint of garlic, it’s perfect for spreading or dipping.
You can whip this up in a flash! I love serving it with crispy veggies or crunchy crackers. It’s always a hit at parties, and I may have caught myself eating it straight from the bowl! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Bell Peppers: These are the stars of the dip! Roasting brings out their natural sweetness. If you’re short on time, jarred roasted red peppers work great as a substitute.
Cream Cheese: It gives the dip its creamy texture. For a healthier twist, consider using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nice depth of flavor. You can swap it with nutritional yeast for a vegan option or skip it if you want a lighter dip.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for its bright flavor. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can be a fast substitute, but use less as it’s more concentrated.
What’s the Best Way to Roast Bell Peppers?
Roasting bell peppers is easy and enhances their flavor. Here’s how to ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place whole peppers on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes until the skins are charred and blistered. Turn them occasionally for even cooking.
- After roasting, cover them with plastic wrap or a lid for about 10-15 minutes. This steaming step makes peeling easier.
- Once cooled, simply peel the charred skin off, remove the seeds, and you’re ready to chop!
This technique really makes a difference in flavor, so don’t skip it!
How to Make Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 2 large red bell peppers (roasted, peeled, and seeded)
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Fresh dill (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the peppers, 25 minutes roasting, and about 5 minutes blending everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast them until the skins are nicely charred and blistered, which takes about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even roasting. If you prefer, you can also char them directly over an open flame on the stovetop for a more intense flavor.
2. Peel and Prepare Peppers:
Once the peppers are roasted, carefully transfer them to a bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Let them steam for 10-15 minutes. This steaming moment makes it easier to peel off the skins. After they cool, peel off the charred skin, remove any seeds and stems, and chop the peppers roughly.
3. Blend the Dip:
In a food processor or blender, add the roasted peppers, softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika (if using), salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Take a moment to enjoy the aroma!
4. Adjust Flavor and Texture:
Now, taste the dip! Adjust any seasonings if you like. You can add more salt, lemon juice, or paprika to match your preference. If the dip is a bit thick, simply add a splash of olive oil or a small amount of water to loosen it up.
5. Serve:
Transfer the delicious dip into a serving bowl. If you like, garnish it with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of chopped dill for an extra pop of flavor and color!
6. Enjoy:
This Roasted Red Pepper Dip is perfect for serving chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh veggies for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
This Roasted Red Pepper Dip is a great crowd-pleaser for gatherings or just a tasty treat for yourself!
Can I Use Jarred Roasted Red Peppers Instead?
Absolutely! Jarred roasted red peppers are a convenient substitute and can save time. Just drain them well before adding to the recipe to avoid excess moisture in your dip.
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you’re looking for some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. You could also incorporate some fresh jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the flavors may meld while stored.
What Can I Serve with This Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers! Try serving it with fresh veggies like carrots or bell pepper strips, pita chips, crackers, or even spread it on toasted baguette slices for a delicious appetizer!
