Pepperoni Pizza Dip – All the Flavor of Pizza in One Cheesy Scoop

There are certain appetizers that instantly bring people together, and Pepperoni Pizza Dip is one of them. It captures everything we love about a classic slice of pepperoni pizza—melty cheese, rich tomato sauce, savory spices, and crispy pepperoni—but transforms it into a warm, scoopable dip that’s perfect for sharing. Whether it’s game day, movie night, a holiday party, or a casual weekend get-together, this dip disappears fast.

What makes this dip such a crowd favorite is how familiar it feels. Everyone knows pizza, and everyone loves it. This recipe takes those comforting flavors and layers them into a baked dip that’s indulgent without being complicated. Cream cheese creates a rich, velvety base, marinara adds brightness and tang, and mozzarella stretches beautifully with every scoop. Pepperoni finishes it off with that irresistible salty bite.

This is also one of those recipes that feels special without requiring a ton of effort. You can have it prepped in minutes, baked until bubbly, and on the table before guests even start asking what smells so good. It’s perfect for hosts who want maximum impact with minimal stress.

Another bonus? It’s incredibly versatile. Serve it with toasted baguette slices, breadsticks, crackers, or even tortilla chips. You can customize it endlessly with extra toppings, spice levels, or cheeses, making it a go-to recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded Italian-blend cheese
• ¾ cup sliced pepperoni
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
3. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into a small oven-safe baking dish.
4. Spoon marinara sauce over the cream cheese layer and spread gently.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Italian-blend cheese evenly over the sauce.
6. Top with sliced pepperoni.
7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly and the cheese is lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
10. Serve warm with breadsticks, toasted baguette slices, or crackers.

Tips & Tricks
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing so the base spreads smoothly. If you want extra crispy pepperoni, briefly sauté it before adding it to the top of the dip.

For a creamier dip, mix a small amount of marinara directly into the cream cheese layer instead of fully layering it.

Variations
Turn this into a supreme pizza dip by adding cooked sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Swap mozzarella for provolone for a sharper cheese flavor, or add a sprinkle of parmesan on top for extra richness.

If you like heat, drizzle with hot honey or add extra red pepper flakes before serving.

Serving Suggestions
This dip is perfect for game day spreads, birthday parties, and casual gatherings. Serve it in the center of a snack board surrounded by breadsticks, garlic knots, crackers, and veggies.

It also pairs well with a simple green salad if you’re serving it as part of a larger meal.

Storage Information
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Stir gently before reheating for even warmth.

FAQ
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dip, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead. Bake just before serving.

Can I use pizza sauce instead of marinara?
Absolutely. Pizza sauce works perfectly and adds extra seasoning.

Is this dip freezer-friendly?
Freezing isn’t recommended, as the cream cheese base may change texture.

History / Fun Facts
Pizza dips became popular as casual entertaining grew more focused on shareable, comfort-driven foods. By combining layered dips with classic pizza flavors, home cooks created a dish that feels nostalgic, indulgent, and fun—everything a party appetizer should be.