Description
A rich and creamy cheesy garlic herb dip that combines melty mozzarella, cream cheese, and parmesan with aromatic garlic and herbs. Baked to golden perfection, this crowd-pleasing appetizer is perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in. Served warm, it pairs wonderfully with crackers, fresh veggies, or artisan bread for an irresistible snack or party dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons panko or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish and preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures the baking dish is ready for the dip, preventing sticking and promoting even cooking.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, mayonnaise, and half of the parmesan cheese (¼ cup). Stir together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well blended for a luscious base.
- Add Seasonings: Mix in the minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and black pepper. Ensure even distribution of the aromatic herbs and bold garlic flavor throughout the cheese mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a level surface for even baking and topping application.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup parmesan cheese with the panko or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheese layer to add a golden, crispy crust.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the dip is bubbling hot, signaling it’s perfectly melted and ready.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with crackers, chips, or slices of bread. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy, herb-infused dip at your next gathering!
Notes
- Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days; flavors intensify over time.
- Before serving leftovers, let the dip sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften and become more scoopable.
- You can freeze the dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and stir before reheating.
- Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
- For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use plant-based cheese alternatives for a vegan-friendly dip.
- Enhance texture by mixing in finely chopped spinach or artichoke hearts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy garlic herb dip, baked cheese dip, game day appetizer, party dip recipe, creamy cheese dip, garlic herb appetizer, baked mozzarella dip
