If you are on the hunt for a crowd-pleaser that combines the ultimate comfort of pizza with a luscious, shareable twist, this Tomato Burrata Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe is going to blow your mind. Imagine melted mozzarella mingling beautifully with creamy burrata, all swimming in a rich tomato sauce, and topped off with savory pepperoni for that beloved pizza flavor. This dip is not only comforting but impressively simple to whip up, making it the perfect appetizer for game days, parties, or any cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this dip, it becomes an instant favorite that everyone will be begging for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is a testament to how just a handful of well-chosen ingredients can create something truly spectacular. Each element plays a crucial role in bringing depth of flavor, creaminess, or that irresistible pizza vibe, and the simplicity of the list means you probably already have most of them on hand.
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce: The saucy foundation that delivers tangy tomato goodness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that adds layers of herbaceous warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle punch of savory depth without overpowering the dip.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, stretchy cheese that screams pizza comfort.
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni or chopped regular pepperoni: Adds a spicy, meaty pop in every bite.
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 4 ounces): Ultra-creamy cheese that’s the star, melting luxuriously over the dip.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a glossy finish and a touch of richness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal note.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for those who like a little heat to awaken their taste buds.
- Toasted baguette slices, crackers, or breadsticks for serving: The ideal crunchy vehicles for scooping up this cheesy delight.
How to Make Tomato Burrata Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready when you assemble the dip. Grab a small baking dish or a cast iron skillet, then spread an even layer of marinara or pizza sauce right on the bottom. This will be the flavorful base for all those melty cheeses and pepperoni. Sprinkle the sauce with Italian seasoning and garlic powder to amp up the herbal and garlicky undertones that will marry perfectly with the cheeses.
Step 2: Layer the Cheese and Pepperoni
Next, sprinkle a generous cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the saucy layer. Mozzarella is essential because of its amazing meltiness and the gooey stretch factor that defines a pizza experience. Scatter your mini pepperoni or chopped regular pepperoni evenly over the mozzarella, ensuring each scoop or bite of dip has that spicy, meaty burst that makes pepperoni so beloved.
Step 3: Add the Magical Burrata
Now for the crowning glory: tear open your ball of burrata cheese and dollop it right on top of your layered dip. Burrata brings a decadently creamy texture and a delicate milky flavor that elevates this dip way beyond your typical pizza cheese blend. It will melt and ooze to create pockets of silky richness throughout.
Step 4: Drizzle and Bake
Drizzle the top with olive oil to add a touch of richness and help the cheese brown beautifully as it bakes. If you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top now. Pop your dish into the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese has golden spots that signal perfection.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Immediately
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle on some fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and fresh herby brightness. Serve your dip right away with toasted baguette slices, crispy crackers, or crunchy breadsticks to scoop up that cheesy tomato goodness. Freshly baked and bubbling, this dip is meant to be devoured hot and shared with loved ones.
How to Serve Tomato Burrata Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving adds a delightful pop of green and brightness that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the depth of flavor and offer a subtle kick, perfect for those who love a little heat with their cheese.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement but do not overwhelm it. Think crisp garden salads, a plate of fresh cut veggies, or even a light antipasto assortment. These will balance out the indulgent richness and keep the appetizer spread exciting and varied.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving the dip in individual mini cast iron skillets or ramekins for personal portions that look elegant and keep the dip warm longer. Another fun idea is to fill hollowed-out bread rounds with the dip for an eye-catching and edible serving bowl. Don’t be afraid to get creative; this dip’s irresistible flavor will wow no matter how you serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare!), store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more overnight, but the texture might tighten up, so some warming will be necessary to get back that ooey-gooey magic.
Freezing
While you can freeze this dip, it’s best to do so without the fresh basil or parsley topping to preserve their vibrant flavor and texture. Store your dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your dip in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and bubbly, approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch but can cause the cheese to become rubbery, so oven reheating is preferred to retain that fresh-baked texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this dip vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap regular pepperoni for a vegetarian version or omit it completely. The combination of burrata and mozzarella with the tomato sauce still delivers plenty of rich, savory flavors.
Is burrata cheese hard to find or substitute?
Burrata is often available at well-stocked grocery stores or specialty cheese shops. If you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella or stracciatella cheese can be good substitutes, but nothing matches burrata’s creamy indulgence perfectly.
Can I add other toppings to the dip?
Yes! Sautéed mushrooms, olives, or even roasted red peppers make wonderful additions before baking. Just make sure not to overload it to keep the perfect melt and texture balance.
What should I serve with Tomato Burrata Pepperoni Pizza Dip?
Toasted baguette slices, crackers, or crunchy breadsticks are classic. You can also serve it alongside fresh-cut veggies for a lighter option or pile it onto small pita breads for variety.
How long does this dip stay fresh after baking?
It’s best enjoyed immediately for that warm, bubbly, melty experience. If you have leftovers, refrigerate and consume within 3 days, reheating gently before serving.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend enough giving this Tomato Burrata Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those recipes that feels effortlessly special, perfect for sharing, and guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Whether you serve it at a casual get-together or cozy night in, it delivers all the gooey, melty, pepperoni-packed pizza joy you crave in an innovative dip form. Give it a go and prepare to make it your new go-to appetizer — your friends and family will thank you!
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Tomato Burrata Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 20–23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tomato Burrata Pepperoni Pizza Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer perfect for sharing. Featuring layers of marinara sauce, mozzarella, mini pepperoni, and creamy burrata cheese, it’s baked until bubbly and golden, then topped with fresh herbs. Serve with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or breadsticks for a crowd-pleasing snack inspired by classic Italian-American flavors.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese & Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni or chopped regular pepperoni
- 1 ball burrata cheese (about 4 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish & Serving
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toasted baguette slices, crackers, or breadsticks for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when you assemble the dip.
- Prepare Sauce Base: In a small baking dish or cast iron skillet, spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the sauce for added flavor.
- Add Cheese and Pepperoni: Layer shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Scatter the mini pepperoni or chopped regular pepperoni on top of the cheese layer to distribute flavor throughout the dip.
- Add Burrata: Tear open the ball of burrata and dollop it either in the center or spread around the top of the dip for creamy richness.
- Drizzle Olive Oil and Add Optional Spices: Drizzle olive oil over the assembled dip and sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheese has melted and turned golden in spots.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh touch, and serve immediately with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or breadsticks for dipping.
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or olives over the cheese before baking.
- To achieve a bubbly, browned top, broil the dip for the last 1–2 minutes of cooking but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
