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Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Golden bubbly baked garlic bread dip in a rustic cast iron skillet.

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There is nothing quite like the aroma of garlic and melted cheese wafting from the oven to signal that a good time is about to be had. This Baked Garlic Bread Dip has become my non-negotiable party staple, the one dish that disappears faster than I can refill the chip bowl. It all started during a chaotic game day gathering at my house, where I needed a last-minute appetizer that could feed a crowd without any fuss. I threw together the most comforting ingredients I had—cream cheese, mozzarella, and a generous amount of garlic—and the result was a bubbling, golden-brown dip that received a standing ovation. It is the ultimate cheesy party appetizer, combining the beloved flavors of garlic bread in a scoopable, shareable form. Whether you are hosting a big game watch, a holiday party, or just a casual Friday night, this garlic bread dip recipe is your secret weapon for a happy, satisfied crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
  • 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (optional, for a spin on spinach artichoke dip)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your softened cream cheese and place it in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth and creamy. This initial step is crucial for preventing any lumps in your final dip.
  2. Combine the Base: To the smooth cream cheese, add the sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together until it is fully combined and uniform. If you are adding artichoke hearts or other mix-ins like chopped spinach, fold them in at this stage.
  3. Transfer and Top: Spoon the dip mixture into a 9-inch oven-safe baking dish or a cast-iron skillet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. This extra cheese will create that beautiful, golden-brown, bubbly crust we all love.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown. If you want more browning on top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the dip from the oven. It will be extremely hot. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. This rest time allows the dip to set slightly, making it the perfect scoopable temperature for serving.

Notes

Smart Substitutions: For a lighter version, use low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese and light sour cream. Vegan? Swap in your favorite plant-based cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheeses. Not a mayo fan? You can use an additional 1/2 cup of sour cream in its place. For a spicy kick, add a 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Common Mistakes to Avoid: Using Cold Cream Cheese: This is the number one cause of a lumpy dip. Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature for at least 30-60 minutes before you begin. Overbaking: The goal is a hot, bubbly dip with a golden top, not a dry, browned one. Keep a close eye on it during the last five minutes of baking. Skipping the Rest Time: Serving the dip straight from the oven is a recipe for burned mouths. It is also extremely liquid. Letting it sit for 5 minutes allows it to thicken up to the perfect dipping consistency. Using Pre-Shredded Cheese with Anti-Caking Agents: While convenient, bagged shredded cheese is coated to prevent clumping, which can make your dip less smooth. For the ultimate creamy texture, shred your own mozzarella from a block. Storing Tips: Refrigeration: Allow the dip to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. For a larger amount, reheat it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You may need to add a small splash of milk if it has thickened up too much. Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this dip. The dairy-based sauce can separate and become grainy upon thawing, resulting in a less desirable texture.

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