Caprese Dip – A Delicious Appetizer for Any Party

Caprese Dip – A delicious appetizer for any party! This warm cheesy Caprese Dip is stuffed with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a refreshing twist on a classic salad. Serve this hot Caprese Dip with crusty bread to please everyone. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights. This easy Caprese Dip recipe will become your favorite Caprese appetizer all year round!

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Dip

• Classic Flavors with a Twist: All the beloved Caprese salad ingredients, but with a rich, cheesy twist.
• Perfect for Parties: This dip is a guaranteed hit at any event, from casual game nights to elegant dinner parties.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with fresh, everyday ingredients you likely already have.
• Easy to Make: Just a few simple steps, and you have a warm, irresistible dip.
• Versatile: Serve it with bread, chips, or veggies for a delicious snack or appetizer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this easy Caprese Dip recipe, you only need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients.

• Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds a smooth and creamy texture to the dip.
• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (8 oz): Cut into cubes for the perfect melt. Mozzarella balls also work well.
• Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the cheesy goodness.
• Basil Pesto (2 tbsp): Homemade or store-bought pesto adds a punch of flavor.
• Fresh Basil (1/4 cup, chopped): Mix it into the dip and use extra for garnish.
• Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup): Sweet, juicy cherry or grape tomatoes are perfect for roasting.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Drizzle over the tomatoes before roasting.
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat.

How to Make Caprese Dip

Follow these simple steps to create this warm and cheesy appetizer for party in just 30 minutes.

1. Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, basil pesto, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if desired). Spread them in the bottom of a baking dish and roast for 15 minutes until soft and bursting.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

While the tomatoes roast, combine sour cream, fresh mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped basil in a large bowl. Stir until well mixed.

3. Assemble the Dip

Once the tomatoes are roasted, remove the baking dish from the oven. Spread the cheese mixture over the warm tomatoes and gently stir to combine.

4. Bake Until Bubbly

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and bubbling around the edges.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers.

Best Ways to Serve Caprese Dip

This hot Caprese Dip pairs perfectly with a variety of crunchy sides for scooping up all that cheesy goodness.

• Mini Quiche Recipe – The Perfect Appetizer
• Pita Chips: A sturdy and savory option for dipping.
• Tortilla Chips: Perfect for a casual gathering.
• Crackers: Any type of crackers work well, from buttery to whole-grain.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Caprese Dip

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and basil make all the difference.
• Don’t Skip Roasting the Tomatoes: This step intensifies their sweetness and adds a delicious depth of flavor.
• Adjust the Heat: For a spicier dip, increase the red pepper flakes.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the dip up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Caprese Dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly.

More Cheesy Dips to Try

If you love cheesy, indulgent dips like this Caprese Dip, here are a few more crowd-pleasers to try:

• Homemade Boursin Cheese: Creamy, herby, and perfect for spreading.
• Whipped Goat Cheese: Light, fluffy, and full of tangy flavor.
• Cottage Cheese Dip: A protein-packed, savory option.

Final Thoughts

This Caprese Dip combines the best of a classic Caprese salad with the indulgent comfort of melted cheese. It’s the ultimate appetizer for party settings, offering fresh summer flavors that are perfect year-round. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, this easy, cheesy dip is guaranteed to be a hit!