This Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Dip is a burst of fresh flavors in one bowl! With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s like a feast for your taste buds.
Pair it with crunchy bread or crackers, and you’ll find it hard to stop munching! I could gobble up this dip all day—perfect for parties or just a cozy night in! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Cherry or grape tomatoes are the best for this dip because they’re sweet and have a juicy texture. If these aren’t available, you can use regular diced tomatoes, but the flavor may differ a bit.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture. If you can’t find it, shredded mozzarella works well too. Just make sure it’s low-moisture to avoid too much liquid.
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich creaminess. If you want a lighter alternative, you could use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese for a similar texture.
Basil: Fresh basil is a must for that classic Caprese flavor! If fresh isn’t available, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil for a different taste. Just remember, it won’t be quite the same!
How Can I Make Sure My Dip is Perfectly Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to this dip is mixing the cream cheese properly to avoid lumps. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature before starting. Here’s how to nail the texture and flavor:
- Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, and garlic together until smooth. A hand mixer can make this easier!
- When layering, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly to create a base for the other ingredients.
- Don’t forget to season! Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors, so add a bit more if you like.
- Add the fresh basil only after baking to keep it vibrant and fresh.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy dip with crunchy toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers. It’s sure to be a hit!
Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded or small balls (bocconcini)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake. So, in about 35 minutes total, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dip ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to make sure your dip bakes evenly and gets all gooey and delicious.
2. Mix the Base:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to mix until everything is nice and smooth. You want a creamy base for the dip!
3. Assemble the Dip:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish (an 8×8 inch dish is perfect). This is the base layer that all the yummy ingredients will sit on.
4. Add the Cheese:
Next, scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese over the cream cheese layer. This will create a gooey, melty top layer once it’s baked!
5. Top with Tomatoes:
Now, arrange the halved cherry or grape tomatoes over the mozzarella. Make sure they’re spread out evenly so every scoop of the dip has some delicious tomato in it.
6. Drizzle and Season:
Give the dip a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors. Yum!
7. Bake It Up:
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
8. Freshen It Up:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the fresh sliced basil over the top. This will give it a fresh flavor—perfect for a Caprese dip!
9. Add a Finishing Touch:
If you like, you can drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the dip for some extra sweetness and tang. It really ties everything together!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the dip warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers for dipping. Enjoy the rich, creamy blend of melted cheeses with those juicy tomato bursts and the fresh aroma of basil. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella and cream cheese are traditional choices for this dip, you can substitute with other cheeses like ricotta or feta for unique flavors. Just make sure to maintain a creamy texture with a soft cheese.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Simply layer it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven, increasing the baking time by a few minutes as needed.
What Can I Serve with This Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or crackers. You can also serve it alongside fresh veggies like cucumber or bell pepper sticks for a lighter option.
