Description
A quick, cheesy, and savory dip made with cream cheese, marinara, and pepperoni that tastes like pizza without the crust. Perfect for game days and last-minute hosting.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz (225g) full-fat brick cream cheese
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 10–12 slices thin, dry-cured pepperoni
- 1 cup (115g) freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Place an 8-inch skillet over medium-low heat and add the butter, swirling to coat the bottom and sides.
- Add the block of cream cheese to the warm skillet, breaking it into chunks. Let sit for 30 seconds, then stir until melted into a smooth paste (2-3 minutes).
- Pour in the marinara sauce and sprinkle with dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently until the sauce and cream cheese emulsify into a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Stop stirring and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Arrange the pepperoni slices in a single layer.
- Let the dip sit undisturbed on medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the pepperoni edges are crispy. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use full-fat brick cream cheese, not spreadable tub cream cheese, to prevent a runny dip. Grate your own mozzarella for better melting; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents. Keep heat on medium-low to prevent burning the bottom or splitting the cheese. This dip is best served fresh and does not reheat well.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the skillet
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 850
- Fat: 38
- Saturated Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 18
Keywords: pepperoni pizza dip, game day snacks, party dip, 15 minute recipes, cream cheese dip, pizza dip, easy appetizer, super bowl food