When it comes to party snacks or effortless game day appetizers, this Savory 5-Ingredient Pizza Dip absolutely steals the show. It brings all the cheesy, melty goodness of your favorite pizza into a scoopable, crowd-pleasing form. Rich cream cheese forms the base, layered with zesty pizza sauce, gooey mozzarella, and savory pepperoni, then finished with a sprinkle of fresh basil. It’s the kind of dip that disappears fast—so double it if you’re serving a crowd!
This recipe is a go-to when you want something indulgent but low-effort. It’s oven-baked to golden, bubbling perfection and pairs perfectly with crusty bread, crackers, or veggie sticks. Whether it’s movie night, a casual get-together, or just a treat-yourself moment, this dip fits the bill with big flavor and minimal prep.
What Kind of Pepperoni Should I Use?
Any pepperoni you love on pizza will work here. Classic mini pepperoni slices look great and give perfect bite-sized hits of salty, crispy edges when baked. You can also go with turkey pepperoni for a lighter option, or even spicy pepperoni if you like a little heat. Make sure to pat it dry with a paper towel to keep the dip from getting greasy on top.

Ingredients for the Savory 5-Ingredient Pizza Dip
- Cream Cheese – This forms the rich, creamy base that holds everything together. It should be softened to spread easily.
- Pizza Sauce – Adds that unmistakable tomato flavor. Choose a thicker sauce to avoid a watery dip.
- Mozzarella Cheese – For that classic cheesy stretch. Shredded mozzarella melts smoothly over the top.
- Pepperoni Slices – Brings the pizza flavor and a bit of crispiness when baked.
- Fresh Basil – Adds a bright, fresh finish and a pop of color right before serving.
How To Make the Savory 5-Ingredient Pizza Dip
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Base
Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a medium bowl, soften the cream cheese until smooth. Spread it evenly into the bottom of a small baking dish.
Step 2: Add the Pizza Sauce Layer
Spoon your favorite thick pizza sauce over the cream cheese base. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it into an even layer.
Step 3: Pile on the Mozzarella
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese across the entire surface. You want full coverage so it melts into that irresistible cheesy blanket.
Step 4: Top with Pepperoni
Arrange the pepperoni slices over the top of the cheese. For extra crispiness, don’t overlap them too much.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling, with golden brown edges.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped basil. Let it cool slightly, then serve warm with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or veggie dippers.
How to Serve and Store This Pizza Dip
This dip is best served warm, straight from the oven when the cheese is melted and gooey. It’s perfect with toasted baguette slices, sturdy crackers, pita chips, or even celery sticks for a low-carb option.
If you have leftovers, cover the dish tightly and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble all the layers, cover with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
You can use dried Italian seasoning as a substitute, or skip it entirely. Fresh parsley is another great alternative.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! While mozzarella is classic, a blend of provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack can add extra flavor.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free if you use gluten-free pizza sauce and serve it with gluten-free dippers.
Can I add veggies?
Sure! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives make delicious additions. Just chop them small so they bake evenly.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If you love this Savory 5-Ingredient Pizza Dip, you’ll definitely want to try these other crowd-pleasing dishes:
- Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions for a creamy, melty onion fix.
- Creamy Shrimp Chowder that’s rich, comforting, and perfect for colder nights.
- Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage for a hearty, hands-off dinner.
- Deep Hamburger Sausage Pepperoni Pie if you want more meaty pizza-inspired flavor.
- Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly for a sweet-savory bite-sized treat.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can whip it up for your next party or movie night.
And if you give this dip a try, drop a comment below! Did you spice it up with jalapeños or use a different cheese blend? I love seeing your versions and sharing tips that make entertaining easier for all of us.
Looking for more simple, crave-worthy recipes? Visit my Pinterest board here: Life with Nina Recipes.

Savory 5-Ingredient Pizza Dip
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Savory 5-Ingredient Pizza Dip brings all the flavor of a classic pizza into one bubbling, cheesy dish that’s perfect for parties, holidays, or cozy nights in. With minimal ingredients and under 30 minutes to make, it’s the ultimate go-to appetizer when you need something fast, easy, and delicious.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup pizza sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup pepperoni slices
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Spread softened cream cheese into the base of a small baking dish.
3. Top evenly with pizza sauce.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the sauce.
5. Arrange pepperoni slices over the cheese layer.
6. Bake for 18–20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
Pat pepperoni dry to avoid a greasy top.
For extra crisp on top, broil the dip for 1-2 minutes after baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: pizza dip, game day snack, party appetizer


