Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of warm, buttery garlic bread fresh out of the oven. Now, imagine all that flavor packed into a creamy, cheesy dip—perfect for scooping up with crisp crostini or crunchy breadsticks. This Baked Garlic Bread Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, bringing together rich cheeses, fragrant garlic, and a touch of spice for a truly addictive appetizer.

I first made this dip for a family gathering when I needed a quick and easy dish that would keep everyone satisfied while waiting for the main meal. Needless to say, it disappeared within minutes! It's now my go-to recipe whenever I need a simple, delicious, and stress-free appetizer.

Why You'll Love This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite appetizer! This Baked Garlic Bread Dip is everything you love about garlic bread but in a warm, scoopable form.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dip comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute get-togethers.

The cheesy, garlicky goodness is simply irresistible. A blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, gooey texture, while fresh garlic and herbs bring the classic garlic bread flavor you crave.

It's also versatile and customizable. Want a little spice? Add some crushed red pepper flakes. Looking for a smoky twist? Mix in some crumbled bacon. The possibilities are endless!

And finally, it's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just indulging in a cozy night at home, this dip will always be a hit.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Baked Garlic Bread Dip lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dip extra delicious.

Cream Cheese forms the rich, creamy base of this dip. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Let it soften at room temperature so it blends smoothly with the other ingredients.

Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese add the perfect cheesy pull and salty depth. Mozzarella ensures a melty, gooey texture, while Parmesan provides a sharp, nutty kick. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.

Garlic is the star of the show! Freshly minced garlic gives this dip that signature garlic bread taste. If you're a garlic lover, don't be afraid to add an extra clove or two.

Butter and Olive Oil help mimic that buttery garlic bread richness. A touch of olive oil keeps everything smooth while melted butter enhances the flavor.

Italian Seasoning and Red Pepper Flakes bring warmth and a little kick. You can adjust the spice level to your liking or swap in fresh herbs like basil and oregano for an even fresher taste.

For the best results, use a small baking dish or an oven-safe skillet to get that golden-brown, bubbly finish when baking.

How To Make This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Creating this flavorful dip is incredibly simple, and the reward is absolutely worth it. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or a non-stick spray.

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, melted butter, olive oil, and seasonings. Stir until everything is well incorporated and smooth. The mixture should be thick, creamy, and full of garlicky goodness.

Transfer the mixture to your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For an extra golden-brown top, sprinkle a bit more mozzarella and Parmesan over the dip before baking.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and slightly golden on top. If you love an extra-crispy finish, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful, restaurant-quality finish.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dip!), you’ll want to store them properly to enjoy later.

Refrigerate any leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The dip will firm up in the fridge, so be sure to reheat it before serving.

To reheat, place the dip back in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until warm.

Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended for this dip, as dairy-based dips tend to separate when thawed.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dip is how easy it is to customize! Here are a few fun ways to change it up:

If you want to add protein, mix in some cooked, crumbled bacon or diced pepperoni for a savory, meaty touch. This turns the dip into an even heartier appetizer.

For a spicy kick, add extra red pepper flakes or stir in some chopped jalapeños. You can also drizzle a bit of hot honey on top for a sweet-heat contrast.

Looking to make it a little lighter? Swap out the full-fat cream cheese for a light version, and use part-skim mozzarella. The dip will still be creamy, just with fewer calories.

Want to make it even more garlicky? Roast a whole head of garlic in the oven and mash it into the dip mixture before baking. Roasted garlic adds a sweeter, milder garlic flavor that's absolutely delicious.

For a herbaceous touch, mix in fresh basil, oregano, or thyme. Fresh herbs add a bright, garden-fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dip.

No matter how you tweak it, this Baked Garlic Bread Dip is bound to be a hit. Give it a try, experiment with your favorite flavors, and watch it disappear in minutes!

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