Easy Caprese Dip

If you love the fresh, vibrant flavors of a classic Caprese salad, you’re going to adore this Easy Caprese Dip! It’s a warm, cheesy, and melty appetizer featuring juicy tomatoes, gooey mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all baked together for the perfect bite every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients – Made with just a handful of fresh, easy-to-find items.
Quick to Make – Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
Crowd-Pleaser – A guaranteed hit at parties, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.
Versatile – Great with bread, crackers, or even fresh veggies.
Fresh and Cheesy – The perfect balance of bright tomatoes and rich, melted cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dip:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
• Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
• Extra cherry tomatoes (optional)

For Serving:

• Toasted baguette slices
• Crackers
• Fresh vegetable sticks (like cucumbers and bell peppers)

Tools You’ll Need

• 8-inch oven-safe skillet or baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Small knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Base
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and garlic powder.
Spread the mixture evenly into the bottom of your oven-safe skillet or baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
In another bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Scatter the seasoned tomatoes evenly over the cheese layer.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Bake
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh basil.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
Serve hot with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies.

Tips for the Best Easy Caprese Dip
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes make all the difference.
Soften the Cream Cheese – Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes for easier mixing.
Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on the dip after 15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Customize It – Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Serve Immediately – This dip is best enjoyed hot and bubbly right out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions
Toasted Baguette – Crisp, golden baguette slices are perfect for scooping.
Garlic Bread – Extra flavor and perfect pairing with cheesy goodness.
Crackers – Choose sturdy crackers that can hold up to the warm, melty dip.
Veggie Sticks – Cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots add a fresh, crunchy contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat in an oven-safe dish at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly.
Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make it ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the dip (without baking) and refrigerate for up to a day. Bake just before serving.
2. Can I use sun-dried tomatoes?
   Absolutely! Sun-dried tomatoes add a deeper, more intense tomato flavor.
3. What if I don’t have balsamic glaze?
   You can drizzle a little balsamic vinegar mixed with honey as an alternative.
4. Can I add extra toppings?
   Of course! Try adding crumbled feta, extra herbs, or even cooked bacon for more flavor.
5. Is this dip gluten-free?
   Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free. Just serve with gluten-free crackers or veggies for dipping.

Final Thoughts
This Easy Caprese Dip is a vibrant, cheesy, and totally irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its fresh flavors and melty texture, it’s a dish that looks impressive but couldn’t be simpler to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this dip is sure to be a favorite!

Give it a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review and share your beautiful dips on Pinterest or Instagram.

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 220 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 320mg

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