Description
A cheesy, savory dip made with smoked mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheeses, enhanced with Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Paired with toasted Italian bread slices, this Smoked Mozzarella Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
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
Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- 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. Use a stand mixer for quicker results or mix by hand with a sturdy spoon.
- 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 evenly. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned on top.
- Toast the bread: While the dip is baking, arrange the sliced Italian bread on a baking sheet and toast for the last 5 minutes of the dip’s baking time.
- Garnish and serve: Once the dip is ready, remove from the oven and garnish with diced tomato and chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with the toasted bread slices for dipping.
Notes
Add extra toppings: For extra flavor, top the dip with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic.
Spicy version: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add hot sauce for a spicier dip.
Use different cheeses: Experiment with gouda, cheddar, or fontina for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/10 of recipe
- Calories: Approx. 240 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
