Description
Spicy Italian Sausage Dip brings zesty Mediterranean flavors to your gathering with bold sausage and creamy cheese. Guests will devour this irresistible appetizer that combines rich textures and spicy undertones for an unforgettable party starter.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) spicy Italian sausage, cooked and drained
Cheese:
- 1 ¾ cups (218 grams) freshly grated mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup (50 grams) freshly shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces (340 grams) cream cheese, softened
Seasonings and Extras:
- 15 ounce (425 grams) can diced tomatoes, drained
- ¾ cup (180 milliliters) pepperoncinis, drained and diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh chopped basil for garnish
- Crostini, toasted bread, or crackers for dipping
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 2½-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the sausage, cream cheese, remaining mozzarella cheese, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasonings until ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even spread across the surface.
- Sprinkle the reserved ¾ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dip, creating a delectable cheese layer.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, watching for the cheese to melt completely and the edges to become bubbly and slightly golden.
- For an extra crispy and browned top, activate the broiler for 1-2 minutes, carefully monitoring to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and let the dip rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the temperature to stabilize and flavors to meld.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves, adding a vibrant touch of color and aromatic freshness.
- Serve immediately alongside crisp crostini, sturdy crackers, or toasted bread slices for dipping.
Notes
- Dip preparation starts with a flavor explosion from combining spicy sausage, creamy cheeses, and zesty herbs in one bowl.
- Mixing ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite delivers a balanced blend of rich, tangy, and spicy notes.
- Select high-quality Italian sausage for maximum depth and authentic taste that elevates the entire appetizer experience.
- Cheese blend creates a smooth, melty texture that makes this dip irresistible for game day, parties, or casual gatherings.
- Baking transforms raw ingredients into a bubbling, golden-brown masterpiece that beckons hungry guests to dive right in.
- Fresh basil garnish adds a bright, aromatic finish that cuts through the richness and provides a restaurant-quality presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg