Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

Here's a delicious, easy-to-make Baked Garlic Bread Dip recipe that will have everyone gathered around the table, scooping up every last bite. This warm, cheesy, garlicky dip brings all the flavors of classic garlic bread into a creamy, dippable form—perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy night in.

I first whipped up this dip for a last-minute gathering when I didn’t have time to make homemade garlic bread. It turned out to be such a hit that my guests were practically licking the bowl clean. Now, it’s a go-to appetizer in my home, especially when I need something quick, comforting, and sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Get ready to fall in love with a dip that combines bold garlic flavor, gooey cheese, and a hint of buttery goodness—all baked to golden perfection.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. No complicated steps, no long prep time.

It’s also perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a party or just having a casual snack, this dip is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies for a versatile appetizer.

Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly. Made with simple ingredients like cream cheese, mozzarella, and garlic, this recipe won’t break the bank.

And let’s not forget the amazing aroma. The combination of melted cheese, roasted garlic, and herbs fills your kitchen with the irresistible scent of fresh-baked garlic bread.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this dip quickly becomes a staple in any appetizer lineup.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dip lies in its rich, cheesy base and the perfect balance of flavors. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients.

Cream cheese is the heart of this dip, providing a luscious, creamy texture. Be sure to let it soften at room temperature before mixing—it’ll make blending much easier.

Mozzarella cheese brings the classic, stretchy cheese pull we all love. For the best results, use freshly shredded mozzarella instead of pre-packaged shreds, which often contain anti-caking agents that affect meltability.

Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty bite that enhances the overall depth of flavor. A mix of both grated and shredded Parmesan gives the dip the perfect cheesy contrast.

Garlic, the star of the show, is what gives this dip its signature garlic bread flavor. Freshly minced garlic works best, but if you want a mellower taste, try roasting the garlic beforehand for a more caramelized, slightly sweet flavor.

Butter and Italian seasoning help mimic the classic garlic bread experience. Melted butter infuses the dip with that rich, buttery taste, while Italian seasoning brings a blend of herbs that ties everything together beautifully.

You’ll also need a baking dish, preferably an 8x8-inch dish or similar, to ensure the dip bakes evenly.

How To Make This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Making this dip is as simple as mixing, baking, and digging in. Here’s how it comes together.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, let your cream cheese soften at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This step makes mixing much smoother and ensures a creamy dip.

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, melted butter, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined, making sure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle a little more mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to crisp up and the aroma of garlic and cheese fills your kitchen.

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to scoop without being too runny.

Pair with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or even warm breadsticks for the ultimate dipping experience.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), storing this dip is easy.

To refrigerate, transfer the cooled dip into an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

For freezing, place the dip in a freezer-safe container before baking. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating in the microwave is also an option, but for the best texture, the oven is your best bet.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dip is how customizable it is.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the mixture before baking.

If you prefer a meatier version, mix in some crumbled cooked bacon or diced pepperoni for extra richness.

Want to make it healthier? Swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt and use part-skim mozzarella. The dip will be lighter but still full of flavor.

For a garlic-lover’s dream, roast a whole head of garlic instead of using raw minced garlic. The roasted garlic adds a deep, caramelized flavor that takes this dip to the next level.

Feel free to get creative and make this dip your own. No matter how you tweak it, it’s bound to be a hit!

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