Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Dip Recipe

Introduction

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza Dip is the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines creamy cheese, spicy pepperoni, and a sweet kick of hot honey. Perfect for parties or game nights, this dip bakes up bubbly and irresistible, ideal for dipping with crusty bread or chips.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 4 ounces pepperoni, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup hot honey (or regular honey with a pinch of cayenne pepper)
• Crusty bread, tortilla chips, or crackers, for serving
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Soften the cream cheese by microwaving in 15-second intervals if needed until smooth and easy to mix.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
3. Step 3: Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the bowl. Stir well and adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
4. Step 4: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Step 5: Fold in half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese gently to maintain a light texture.
6. Step 6: Add the finely chopped pepperoni and fold it into the mixture carefully.
7. Step 7: Drizzle the hot honey (or honey mixed with cayenne pepper) over the dip and fold gently to incorporate the sweet heat.
8. Step 8: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or an oven-safe skillet.
9. Step 9: Transfer the dip mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
10. Step 10: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dip.
11. Step 11: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
12. Step 12: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set.
13. Step 13: Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
14. Step 14: Serve the dip warm with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or crackers for dipping.
15. Step 15: Enjoy your delicious hot honey pepperoni pizza dip with friends and family!

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or use a spicier hot honey blend.
• Try swapping pepperoni for cooked spicy sausage or crumbled bacon for a different flavor.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of honey or omit the cayenne when using regular honey.
• Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a richer, gooier texture.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture a few hours in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature for easier spreading and even baking.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs well with crusty bread, tortilla chips, crackers, or even fresh vegetable sticks like bell peppers and celery for a lighter option.