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Creamy Caprese Dip with Melted Mozzarella

creamy caprese dip with melted mozzarella - featured image
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A warm, gooey dip that transforms classic caprese flavors into a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Made with a creamy cream cheese base, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, this easy dip comes together in under 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Let the cream cheese sit out to soften if you haven’t already.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. If the cream cheese is still firm, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften further.
  3. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking dish using a spatula to smooth it out into an even layer.
  4. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes over the cream cheese in a single layer.
  5. Sprinkle the cubed fresh mozzarella evenly over the tomatoes.
  6. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the top. Use a spoon to distribute evenly.
  7. Sprinkle a little more salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes over the top.
  8. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the mozzarella is completely melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown around the edges.
  9. Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped basil over the top. Optionally, drizzle extra balsamic glaze for a fancy finish.
  10. Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced baguette.

Notes

Let the dip rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to set slightly. For best results, use fresh mozzarella (not pre-shredded) and fresh basil. To prevent watery dip, salt the halved tomatoes and pat dry before adding. The dip can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: caprese dip, creamy caprese dip, mozzarella dip, easy appetizer, baked cheese dip, tomato basil dip, party dip, game day appetizer

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/creamy-caprese-dip-with-melted-mozzarella-best-easy-appetizer/