This warm dip pairs the fresh taste of pesto with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, making it a hit at any gathering. Perfect for scooping with bread or crackers!
Whenever I make this dip, I’m always tempted to keep it all for myself! It’s so easy, just mix, bake, and serve. Trust me, your friends will love it as much as you do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: It’s the base for your dip, giving it that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt. It will change the flavor a bit but still works great!
Sour Cream: Adds a nice tang. You can swap it with Greek yogurt as well for a healthier twist or use mayonnaise for added creaminess.
Pesto Sauce: While store-bought is convenient, homemade pesto can elevate the flavor. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, blend basil, garlic, and olive oil without the nuts.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: They bring a sweet and tangy flavor. If you don’t have them, roasted red peppers can be a good substitute. They give a different taste but can still add depth.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan are key for flavor and texture. If you want a stronger flavor, try a sharp cheddar or gouda instead!
How Do You Ensure Your Dip is Smooth and Creamy?
Getting a smooth dip relies on properly mixing your ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect consistency:
- Make sure your cream cheese is well softened. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until completely smooth before adding the other ingredients. You can use an electric mixer for this if you want to save time!
- When adding spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, chop them finely so they blend seamlessly into the dip.
- Taste your mixture before baking. Add extra salt and pepper if needed to make the flavors pop!
Baked Pesto and Sun-dried Tomato Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped finely (optional)
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced
- Extra sun-dried tomatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake, making a total time of about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it nice and hot for baking your dip!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a fork or spatula to mix until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Now, stir in the chopped spinach (if you’re using it), pesto sauce, minced garlic, Italian herbs, and half of the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Cheese It Up:
Next, add your shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese to the mix. Stir until everything is combined nicely. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper based on your taste!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer this creamy mixture into a small oven-safe baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it will heat through and brown nicely.
6. Add More Tomatoes:
Sprinkle the remaining sun-dried tomatoes on top of the dip to add a bit more flavor and a nice visual touch.
7. Bake Away:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the dip is hot, bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
After removing it from the oven, garnish your dip with fresh sliced basil. Serve it warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables for a tasty dipping experience.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful baked pesto and sun-dried tomato dip! It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese or Cheese Alternatives?
Yes! Using low-fat cream cheese or cheese alternatives will work, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly. Aim for options that still melt well for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Sun-dried Tomatoes?
If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes can be excellent substitutes. They will add a different flavor profile but can still enhance the dip beautifully.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to heat it through.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dip?
This dip is best served warm. Pair it with toasted baguette slices, crunchy crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a deliciously satisfying snack!
