Pepperoni Pizza Dip

When you combine the cheesy goodness of pizza with perfectly seasoned Pizza Sauce and pepperoni, this dip will disappear right before your eyes.

photography by Paul Gelsobello Studio

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time:  20 minutes

Makes: 6 cups dip

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1 (8 oz.) container ricotta cheese (whole milk or part skim)

2 cups mozzarella cheese, divided

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 can (15 oz.) Don Pepino Pizza Sauce

1/2 cup chopped pepperoni

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, 2 tablespoons Parmesan, garlic, basil and salt. Spread the mixture evenly in a 2-quart casserole (or 9-inch pie plate).

Spread Pizza Sauce over cheese mixture.  Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan and sprinkle with pepperoni.  Bake 20 minutes or until heated through.

Serve with bread sticks, sliced Italian bread or your favorite dippers.

food stylist - Catherine Paukner

food stylist assistant - Lauren Dellabella

prop stylist - Heather Bean

recipe developed for Don Pepino