Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combination of warm, cheesy dip paired with the comforting crunch of golden-brown bread. This Baked Garlic Bread Dip brings all the flavors of classic garlic bread into a rich, creamy, and ultra-dippable dish that’s perfect for any gathering.

I first made this dip for a family movie night, hoping to create something fun and shareable. It disappeared within minutes, and now it’s my go-to appetizer whenever I need something quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.

This recipe is perfect for parties, game nights, or even as a cozy snack on a chilly evening. It’s simple to throw together with everyday ingredients, and the oven does most of the work. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite appetizer. This dip isn’t just delicious—it’s a total game-changer.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You only need a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes from start to finish. No complicated techniques, just mix, bake, and enjoy.

The flavors are out of this world. Imagine everything you love about garlic bread—rich garlic butter, gooey cheese, and a hint of herbs—all baked into a creamy, scoopable dip.

It’s also a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a party or a family gathering, this dip disappears fast. You might want to double the batch!

Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it with toasted bread, crackers, or even fresh veggies. There’s no wrong way to enjoy it.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dip comes from simple, flavorful ingredients working together perfectly. Each element adds its own special touch, creating a warm and comforting appetizer.

Cream cheese forms the rich, creamy base of the dip. Using full-fat cream cheese gives it the best texture, but you can opt for a lower-fat version if needed. Let it soften before mixing for a smooth, even blend.

Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese bring that irresistible gooeyness and a punch of savory flavor. Mozzarella melts beautifully, while Parmesan adds a slightly nutty depth that balances everything out.

Garlic and butter are the heart of this recipe. Freshly minced garlic gives the dip a bold, aromatic kick, while butter helps it blend seamlessly into the creamy base. If you love extra garlic flavor, don’t be shy—add another clove.

Italian seasoning and parsley add the perfect finishing touch. The mix of dried herbs infuses the dip with a subtle warmth, and fresh parsley brightens everything up right before serving.

For baking, you’ll need a small oven-safe dish. A cast-iron skillet or a ceramic dish works beautifully to hold the heat and keep the dip warm longer.

How To Make This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Making this dip is as easy as stirring, baking, and digging in. Let’s walk through the simple steps to get it just right.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well incorporated.

Next, fold in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The mixture will be thick, but that’s exactly what you want—it ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and spread it evenly. To make the top extra cheesy and golden, sprinkle an extra layer of mozzarella over the surface before baking.

Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly, with a lightly golden top. If you like a slightly crispier finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and added freshness. Let it cool slightly before serving—it will be molten hot straight from the oven.

Total prep and cook time is just around 30 minutes, making this an easy and stress-free dish that delivers big on flavor.

Storage Options

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it just as delicious when reheated.

To warm it up, bake it at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as the dairy-based ingredients may separate and affect the texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few delicious twists you can try.

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. It adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the garlic flavor.

Switch up the cheese! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can use a mix of cheddar, Gouda, or provolone for a different flavor profile. A smoky cheese blend works especially well for a deeper, more complex taste.

Make it heartier by stirring in crumbled cooked bacon or Italian sausage. The added protein makes it even more filling and perfect for a game-day snack.

If you prefer a slightly lighter version, try substituting half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or ricotta. It keeps the dip creamy while reducing some of the richness.

Experiment with different herbs—fresh basil, thyme, or oregano all work beautifully in place of Italian seasoning. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences.

With so many ways to tweak this dip, you can make it uniquely yours every time. Give it a try and find your perfect version!

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