Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Smoked Mozzarella Dip is irresistibly cheesy, warm, and comforting, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll want to make it:

Smoky, cheesy goodness: The combination of smoked mozzarella and provolone cheeses creates a rich, flavorful dip that’s truly unique.
Easy to make: With minimal prep and cook time, this dip is quick and simple, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Perfectly paired: Served with toasted Italian bread slices, the dip is a delightful contrast of creamy and crispy.
Customizable: Add your own twist with toppings like fresh tomatoes, herbs, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Smoked Mozzarella Dip:

8 ounces smoked mozzarella cheese, shredded
8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 – 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 loaf Italian bread, cut into ¼” slices

Optional garnish:

1 Roma tomato, diced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine the smoked mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. You can mix this by hand using a sturdy spoon, but for quicker results, use a stand mixer.
Bake the dip: Spray a 1.5-quart baking dish or pie pan with nonstick cooking spray. Pour the cheese mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly browned on top.
Toast the bread: While the dip is baking, place the sliced Italian bread in a single layer on baking sheets and toast them in the oven during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Garnish and serve: Once the dip is ready, remove it from the oven and garnish with the diced tomato and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately with the toasted Italian bread slices for dipping.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 8-10 people.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add extra toppings: Top the dip with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic for extra flavor.
Spicy version: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the dip for a spicy kick.
Use different cheeses: If you want a different flavor profile, try swapping the provolone for gouda, cheddar, or fontina.

Storage/Reheating

Fridge: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: To reheat, place the dip back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave it until heated through.
Freezer: You can freeze the dip before baking for up to 1 month. To bake from frozen, increase the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use pre-sliced cheese instead of shredded?

Yes! Pre-sliced cheese works, but shredding it yourself gives a creamier texture to the dip.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any kind of crusty bread, such as baguette, ciabatta, or even pita chips.

How do I make this dip spicier?

Add more crushed red pepper flakes, or toss in some diced jalapeños or other hot peppers to amp up the heat.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed, and toast the bread just before serving.

Can I add more cheese to the dip?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of mozzarella or provolone for an extra cheesy dip.

Can I make this dip vegetarian?

Yes! This dip is already vegetarian as long as the cheese is rennet-free. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach, for added nutrition.

Conclusion

This Smoked Mozzarella Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right amount of smoky flavor. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and makes a great appetizer for any occasion. Paired with crispy toasted bread, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering!

Smoked Mozzarella Dip