With layers of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan followed by pizza sauce and virtually any topping you desire, this pizza dip recipe is everything you want in a pizza, without the crust.

Why this recipe works

On the bottom of this pizza dip, you have a layer of triple-cheese decadence topped with Italian-style tomato sauce, finished off with even more cheese and your favorite pizza toppings.

You can change it up by swapping out the types of cheese used, the toppings – or even use an alfredo sauce in place of the tomato. The sky really is the limit with this delicious dip, we especially like serving it with our pizza puffs for the full experience.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

CHEESE – I highly recommend grating cheese from the block over pre-shredded cheese in the bag. Store bought pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents which means it does not melt as well and may be grainy when melted compared to freshly shredded cheese.

SAUCE – Jarred or canned pizza sauce/marinara can be used for this dip, or if you prefer, we have a homemade pizza sauce recipe as well.

How to Make Pizza Dip

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

Preheat oven to 350F.
Grate all of the cheeses and measure their post-grating size.
Mix cream cheese, herbs, cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella.
Spoon into an oven-safe serving dish.
Top with sauce and remaining cheese.
Bake 25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

What size and type of baking dish do I use?

Pictured here, you can use a regular 12 inch skillet or cast iron skillet, or as we’ve done in the past, bake it in a smaller 9×5 baking dish or even in ramekins. The smaller your baking dish, the thicker this dip will be. If you want to use a larger skillet but still want the dip to be fairly deep, I would recommend doubling this recipe. It all comes down to your individual preference.

What kind of toppings can I add?

Choose your favorite pizza toppings whether that be sausage, bacon, pepperoni, mushrooms, ham, green pepper, onion, pineapple… You name it, you can top with it.

How do I store leftover pizza dip?

Although pizza dip is best served fresh from the oven, you can store any leftovers you might have in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pizza dip with your favorite dip-ables (nachos, bread sticks, toast corners, vegetables, pretzels, etc). It’s the perfect easy appetizer for guests – although if you’re serving it with vegetables, I wouldn’t hesitate to call it a Friday night meal!

More Party Dip Recipes

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This post originally appeared here on November 27, 2016 and has since been updated with new photos and expert tips.