As I stirred the warm, creamy mixture in my bowl, the enticing scents of garlic and melted cheese filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite pizzeria. This Cheesy White Pizza Dip brings all the classic flavors of white pizza into a sharable appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. With a quick prep time and the joy of warm, pull-apart garlic knots alongside, it’s a treat you’ll want to make again and again. The combination of rich cheeses, fresh basil, and a kick of red pepper flakes makes this dip an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting game day or just seeking a cozy night in, this dish will have everyone coming back for more. Can you smell the deliciousness already? Let’s dive into making this delightful dip!
Why is White Pizza Dip a Must-Make?
Irresistible Flavors: This dip harmoniously blends creamy cheeses with aromatic garlic and fresh basil, evoking the classic taste of your favorite pizza.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep work, you can whip up this dish in no time, making it perfect for spontaneous get-togethers or cozy nights.
Pairing Perfection: The included garlic knots are the ultimate vessel for scooping up this gooey goodness, enhancing the whole experience.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s game day or a casual gathering, everyone will love this warm, cheesy appetizer—it’s sure to impress! Plus, if you’re looking for variations, consider creating a zesty dip with ingredients from Zesty Green Dip for a fun twist.
White Pizza Dip Ingredients
For the Dip
- Cream Cheese – serves as the creamy foundation, creating a luscious texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese (shredded) – brings the gooey, classic pizza taste that everyone loves.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (for dip) – adds a sharpness that elevates the flavor profile of the dip.
- Ricotta Cheese – contributes to a rich, creamy consistency that complements the other cheeses.
- Milk – helps adjust the dip’s consistency to achieve that perfect creamy texture.
- Fresh Basil (chopped) – adds a pop of freshness, reminiscent of traditional pizza toppings.
- Garlic (minced) – imparts aromatic depth to create a warm, inviting flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes – introduces a hint of heat, balancing the creaminess beautifully.
- Kosher Salt – enhances the overall flavor and rounds out the dish.
For the Garlic Knots
- Pizza Dough – essential for creating those irresistible, pull-apart garlic knots; use homemade or store-bought.
- Olive Oil – adds moisture and flavor to the dough, ensuring the knots are deliciously scented.
- Unsalted Butter – brushing over the knots after baking gives them a rich, buttery finish.
- Parmesan Cheese – sprinkled on top for an added layer of flavor and a delightful crunch.
- Italian Seasoning – boosts the taste of the knots, infusing them with herby goodness.
- Kosher Salt – balances the flavor and enhances the overall taste of both the knots and the dip.
With these wonderful ingredients, your White Pizza Dip will shine, bringing smiles and satisfaction to any gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Pizza Dip
Step 1: Prepare Skillet
Begin by brushing a 10-inch cast iron skillet with olive oil, making sure to coat the bottom and sides. Place a small oven-safe bowl in the center of the skillet, which will hold the creamy White Pizza Dip later. This setup not only helps with baking but also creates an attractive presentation for your final dish.
Step 2: Dough Prep
Divide your pizza dough into 12 equal pieces, then cut each piece into 3 smaller sections and roll them into small balls. Toss these dough balls with a bit of olive oil to keep them moist and flavorful. Make sure they are well-coated to ensure they get nice and golden when baked.
Step 3: Proof Dough
Carefully arrange the dough balls around the bowl inside the skillet, ensuring they are spaced apart for rising. Cover the skillet with a clean kitchen towel and place it in a warm location for about 1 hour. This will allow the dough to rise and double in size, creating fluffy and delicious garlic knots.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking both the dip and knots to achieve that golden, bubbly finish. Preheating ensures everything cooks evenly and gives the White Pizza Dip a deliciously creamy texture.
Step 5: Mix Dip
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, ricotta cheese, milk, chopped basil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir well until all ingredients are smoothly blended together, creating a rich and creamy mixture. This will form the heart of your White Pizza Dip, bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Assemble Dip
Once the dough has risen, remove the bowl from the skillet. Carefully spoon the creamy dip mixture into the center of the skillet where the bowl was placed. Spread the dip evenly, creating a lovely, inviting center that’s sure to impress your guests with its cheesy allure.
Step 7: Bake
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 28-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for a lightly browned top as a visual cue for doneness. If you desire an extra golden finish, you can switch to the broiler for the last few minutes, but be cautious and watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 8: Brush Knots
While the White Pizza Dip bakes, melt some unsalted butter in a small bowl and whisk in grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt. Once the garlic knots are baked and out of the oven, brush this aromatic mixture generously over them for a mouthwatering finish that enhances the overall flavor.
Step 9: Serve
Let the White Pizza Dip cool slightly, then gather the warm garlic knots around the dip for dipping. Serve immediately while it’s still warm, and encourage your guests to indulge in the cheesy goodness. This delightful combination of dip and knots will surely be a hit at any gathering!
Expert Tips for White Pizza Dip
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Dough Rising: Cover the dough while it rises to prevent it from drying out. A clean towel works wonders!
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Bowl Choice: Use a small bowl that can withstand the heat to keep the dip’s shape during baking. Avoid flimsy options!
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Broiler Watch: If broiling for extra color on the dip, keep a close eye to prevent burning; it can go from perfect to charred quickly.
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Parchment Aid: For easier clean-up, consider using a parchment-lined baking sheet if you don’t have a cast iron skillet.
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with cheese variations by mixing in your favorites; just remember to keep the White Pizza Dip creamy!
What to Serve with Cheesy White Pizza Dip?
Serve this cheesy dip alongside flavorful accompaniments for the ultimate snack experience!
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Crispy Veggie Platter: Fresh bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers add a delightful crunch and balance the creamy dip.
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Italian Antipasto Skewers: Skewered olives, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella provide a burst of flavor and elevate your appetizer spread.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm sticks coated in garlic butter perfectly complement the dip, enhancing that comforting pizza vibe.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dip and knots.
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Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These crispy bites add a bit of heat, making for a fun combination that keeps everyone coming back.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the dip, making it a perfect pairing for your gathering.
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Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, a decadent chocolate fondue with fruits can round out the meal, providing a sweet ending to the savory affair.
How to Store and Freeze White Pizza Dip
Fridge: Store leftover White Pizza Dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Garlic Knots Storage: Keep garlic knots in a separate airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring each component retains its gooey goodness.
White Pizza Dip Variations You’ll Love
Feel free to get creative with this delicious dip and make it just the way you like it!
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Vegan Option: Swap traditional cheeses for vegan cream cheese and plant-based mozzarella for a dairy-free delight.
Make your White Pizza Dip enjoyed by everyone without sacrificing taste! -
Spinach Twist: Stir in sautéed spinach before baking for added nutrition and a pop of color.
This simple addition brings an earthy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy dip. -
Pepperoni Lover’s: Add pepperoni slices on top before baking for a meaty, pizza-inspired kick.
The combination of cheese with savory pepperoni creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion. -
Herb Variations: Try using fresh oregano or thyme instead of basil to elevate your dip’s flavor profile.
Each herb brings its unique aroma, making it a delightful twist every time you prepare it. -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the mix for an extra heat level that spice lovers will adore.
Feel the warmth and excitement in each bite as the flavors mingle beautifully and delight your palate! -
Creamy Cauliflower: Blend in pureed cauliflower for a creamy consistency and added veggies without losing any flavor.
This sneaky addition offers a wholesome touch, keeping the dip delicious while lightening it up. -
Cheesy Gorgonzola: If you enjoy blue cheese, swap out some of the mozzarella for gorgonzola for a bold flavor twist.
The sharp tanginess of gorgonzola provides a whole new take on the classic dip while remaining rich and creamy. -
Sweet and Savory: For an unexpected flavor contrast, sprinkle a touch of honey over the dip just before serving.
This sweet addition balances out the savoriness, creating an intriguing and delicious pairing that will surprise your guests.
With these exciting variations, there’s no limit to how you can enjoy your White Pizza Dip! For even more recipe inspiration, consider making delightful options like Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza or enjoy a zesty twist with Zesty Green Dip. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
This White Pizza Dip is an excellent choice for meal prep, saving you time for busy weeknights! You can prepare the dip mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, ricotta, milk, basil, garlic, and red pepper flakes, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the garlic knots, you can also shape the dough balls and refrigerate them overnight; just be sure to let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they’re fluffy and tender. When ready to serve, assemble the dip in the skillet and bake as directed for deliciously gooey results that are just as awesome!
White Pizza Dip Recipe FAQs
What kind of pizza dough works best for garlic knots?
Absolutely! You can use either homemade or store-bought pizza dough for the garlic knots. If you’re short on time, store-bought dough can save you a lot of hassle. Just ensure it’s fresh and not past its expiration date for the best results.
How do I store leftover White Pizza Dip?
After enjoying your delicious dip, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to dive back in, gently reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through, but be careful not to overheat as it can make the dip tough.
Can I freeze White Pizza Dip?
Of course! To freeze your dip, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. It will stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently to restore its creamy texture.
What’s the best way to ensure my garlic knots are soft and fluffy?
Great question! To achieve soft, fluffy garlic knots, make sure you adequately proof the dough in a warm environment until it doubles in size—this usually takes about 1 hour. Keeping the dough covered with a clean kitchen towel prevents it from drying out, which is key to achieving that perfect texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for the White Pizza Dip?
Definitely! If you’re sharing with guests who have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute with non-dairy or vegan cheeses if needed. Also, be cautious with the garlic and red pepper flakes if anyone is sensitive to spicy foods or has allergies. Always check with guests beforehand to ensure everyone can enjoy this delightful dish!
Cheesy White Pizza Dip That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brush a 10-inch cast iron skillet with olive oil, coat the bottom and sides. Place a small oven-safe bowl in the center.
- Divide pizza dough into 12 pieces, cut each into 3 smaller sections, and roll them into balls. Toss with olive oil.
- Arrange the dough balls around the bowl in the skillet, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, grated Parmesan, ricotta, milk, basil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
- Spoon the dip mixture into the center of the skillet where the bowl was. Spread evenly.
- Bake for 28-30 minutes until lightly browned on top. Optionally broil for a few minutes for extra color.
- Melt butter, whisk in grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Brush over baked garlic knots.
- Let the dip cool slightly. Serve with warm garlic knots for dipping.
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