Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

The Coziest Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe for Gathering Joy

Crafting a mouthwatering baked garlic bread dip sparks instant culinary excitement among appetizer enthusiasts.

Creamy textures blend with robust flavors that dance across your palate.

Warm, crusty bread becomes the perfect companion for this rich, indulgent spread.

Cheese melts into silky layers, creating a sensational dipping experience.

Mediterranean herbs and fresh ingredients elevate this classic comfort food beyond traditional expectations.

Aromatic garlic notes promise a delectable journey through simple yet sophisticated cooking.

Let’s dive right in and make something spectacular that will impress everyone at the table.

Garlic Bread Dip: Why It Shines

  • Whip Up Instant Comfort: Creamy, cheesy dip that delivers warm, satisfying flavors perfect for instant mood-lifting and snacking.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Magic: Super simple recipe requiring minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, making it ideal for gatherings, parties, or casual get-togethers.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible dish allowing quick ingredient swaps or additions like crispy bacon bits, jalapeños, or different cheese blends to match personal taste preferences.
  • Zero-Stress Entertaining: One-bowl preparation method means minimal kitchen cleanup, letting you spend more time enjoying delicious food with friends and family.

Ingredients for Garlic Bread Dip

Dairy Base:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a rich and creamy foundation for the dip.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tangy flavor and smooth texture.
  • Mozzarella: Contributes a stretchy, melty cheese element.
  • Parmesan: Delivers a sharp and nutty cheese flavor.
Aromatic and Seasoning Group:
  • Garlic: Offers a deep, savory flavor to the dip.
  • Italian Seasoning: Brings a classic herb blend to enhance overall taste.
  • Salt: Helps to balance and intensify the other flavors.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and mild spiciness.
Finishing and Serving Group:
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautĂ©ing the garlic and adding richness.
  • Parsley: Provides a fresh, green garnish for visual appeal.
  • French Bread or Crackers: Serves as the perfect vehicle for enjoying the dip.

Making Garlic Bread Dip Easily

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375 degrees Fahrenheit, getting it ready for some delicious magic.

Step 2: Sizzle The Garlic

Grab a skillet and drizzle olive oil, then dance those minced garlic bits around until they release their mouthwatering aroma and turn golden.

Step 3: Mix The Creamy Goodness

In a large mixing bowl, toss together:
  • Cream cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Sauteed garlic
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir everything until it’s smooth and well-blended, creating a dreamy, cheesy mixture.

Step 4: Spread The Love

Pour the cheesy concoction into an oven-safe dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite will be perfectly delicious.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bubble and brown for 20-25 minutes.

Watch for that gorgeous golden top that signals it’s ready to devour.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve alongside crispy toasted French bread or crunchy crackers for the ultimate dipping experience.

Helpful Pointers for Bread Dip

  • SautĂ© garlic in olive oil slowly to release its rich, nutty flavor without burning, ensuring a deep aromatic base for the dip.
  • Mix cream cheese at room temperature for smoother consistency, preventing lumpy texture and creating a creamy, even spread.
  • Let the dip rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow cheese to set and flavors to meld, preventing burning and improving overall taste.
  • Swap French bread with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks for a low-carb and diet-friendly alternative without compromising deliciousness.
  • Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning to create unique flavor profiles and personalize the dip.

Unique Styles for Garlic Bread Dip

  • Vegan Cheese Lover's Version: Replace dairy cheese with cashew-based cheese and nutritional yeast for a plant-based alternative that maintains creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • Low-Carb Keto Dipper: Swap French bread with crispy cucumber slices, pork rinds, or almond flour crackers to create a low-carbohydrate friendly appetizer that fits ketogenic diet requirements.
  • Greek-Inspired Herb Remix: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh dill, and a sprinkle of oregano to introduce Mediterranean flavors and create a tangy Mediterranean-style dip.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat lovers who want an extra spicy version of the classic garlic bread dip.

Good Dippers for Garlic Bread Dip

  • Party Platter Perfection: Create a stunning appetizer spread with multiple dipping options like crispy pita chips, sliced baguettes, and vegetable cruditĂ©s for a colorful presentation.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Combo: Pair this warm, cheesy dip with a crisp white wine or light beer to elevate the tasting experience and complement the rich, garlicky flavors.
  • Game Day Delight: Serve in a rustic cast-iron skillet directly from the oven for a dramatic, casual serving style that keeps the dip warm and inviting during sports gatherings or movie nights.
  • Leftover Magic: Spread remaining dip on sandwiches or mix into scrambled eggs for a delicious next-day transformation that prevents food waste and adds excitement to breakfast.

Storing Garlic Bread Dip Properly

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Transfer dip to a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for 1-2 months. Avoid freezing if containing fresh herbs.
  • Preheat to 350F, place dip in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  • Reheat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and prevent separation of ingredients.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this dip creamy and rich?

Cream cheese, sour cream, and two types of cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan) create a luxuriously smooth and indulgent texture that makes this dip incredibly creamy and flavorful.

  • Can I use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced garlic?

Absolutely! Fresh garlic is actually recommended. Mince 3-4 fresh garlic cloves and sauté them in olive oil for the most vibrant and robust garlic flavor in the dip.

  • Is this dip suitable for a party appetizer?

Yes, this garlic bread dip is perfect for gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and serves as a crowd-pleasing starter that guests will love dipping bread or crackers into.

Print
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Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe


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4.7 from 11 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Garlic bread dip elevates comfort classics with creamy, herbed cheese blended into a rich appetizer. Crusty bread and melted ingredients create an irresistible starter you’ll want to share at gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Serving and Garnish:

  • 1 loaf French bread (for dipping)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 375F (190C) to prepare for baking the creamy garlic dip.
  2. Sizzle minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until aromatic and lightly golden, releasing its rich flavor.
  3. Blend cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, the sauteed garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl until smooth and well-incorporated.
  4. Carefully spread the mixture into an oven-safe dish, ensuring an even surface for consistent heating.
  5. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges that indicate perfect doneness.
  6. Remove from oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the surface for a vibrant, herbal garnish.
  7. Serve immediately alongside crispy toasted French bread slices or crunchy crackers for dipping.

Notes

  • Make sure cream cheese is softened at room temperature for smooth, lump-free mixing.
  • Toast the French bread with olive oil and garlic for extra flavor depth and crunchiness.
  • For a lighter version, swap full-fat cream cheese with low-fat Greek yogurt and reduce cheese quantities.
  • Customize the dip by adding chopped spinach, artichokes, or crispy bacon bits for varied texture and taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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