Looking for the perfect appetizer to wow your guests? This Cheesy Garlic Herb Dip is a creamy, savory delight that’s loaded with the flavors of garlic, herbs, and three kinds of cheese. It’s an easy-to-make dip that’s perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering where you want to impress. Serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh veggies for a delicious snack that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Herb Dip
- 12 oz cream cheese, room temperature: The base of the dip, providing a creamy and rich texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, melty goodness to the dip.
- ¼ cup mayo: Contributes extra creaminess and tang to the dip.
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dip, with some reserved for the topping.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic: Infuses the dip with a bold garlic flavor.
- 1 ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds an earthy, slightly piney flavor that complements the garlic.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a warm, subtle flavor that pairs well with the other herbs.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to balance the richness of the cheeses.
- 2 tablespoons panko or breadcrumbs: Creates a crispy topping that adds texture to the creamy dip.
Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Garlic Herb Dip
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayo, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese (reserving 2 tablespoons for topping), minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and black pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet.
Step 4: Add Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese with the panko or breadcrumbs.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cheese dip.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the dip in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dip is bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
🍽 Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Garlic: For a stronger garlic flavor, you can increase the garlic to 3 tablespoons or use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Topping: If you want a cheesier topping, add more Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture.
Variations of Cheesy Garlic Herb Dip
Here are some ways to customize your dip:
- Spicy Garlic Herb Dip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Cheesy Garlic Herb Dip: Stir in ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
- Artichoke Cheesy Garlic Herb Dip: Mix in 1 cup of chopped artichoke hearts for added texture and flavor.
- Spinach Garlic Herb Dip: Fold in 1 cup of chopped, thawed, and drained frozen spinach to make it a spinach and cheese dip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Let it come to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dip?
It’s best to freeze the dip before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
4. What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, pita chips, or fresh vegetables like celery sticks, carrot sticks, and bell pepper slices.
5. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried. Use 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme for the best flavor.
6. How can I make the dip lighter?
For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, light mayo, and part-skim mozzarella cheese. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different.
A Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer
This Cheesy Garlic Herb Dip is the ultimate comfort food appetizer, combining rich cheeses with the bold flavors of garlic and herbs. It’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re serving it at a party, for game day, or just as a snack, this dip will quickly become a favorite.
So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dip that’s sure to disappear fast!
