Description
This easy pizza dip combines creamy cheeses, savory Italian sausage, mushrooms, onions, and classic marinara sauce to deliver all the flavors of a traditional pizza in a warm, cheesy dip perfect for gatherings and game days.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese, divided
Meat and Veggies
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- ½ cup diced onion
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
Other
- 1 jar (25 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup mini pepperoni or chopped pepperoni
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and spray a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Sausage and Veggies: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage along with the diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Stir frequently until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble First Layer: Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then layer half of the marinara sauce over the cheese, followed by half of the cooked sausage mixture and half of the mini or chopped pepperoni.
- Add Second Layer: Repeat the layering by spreading the remaining cheese mixture, then the rest of the marinara sauce, sausage mixture, and pepperoni.
- Add Toppings and Bake: Top the layered dip with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and additional pepperoni. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the dip is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
Notes
- Use a 2-quart baking dish for the perfect size and depth for layering.
- You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Allow the dip to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns from the hot cheese.
- Serve with sliced baguette, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
- This dip can be prepared ahead, assembled, and refrigerated before baking.
