Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Baked garlic bread dip is the ultimate party appetizer that I love making when I want something warm, cheesy, and undeniably comforting. It takes all the best flavors of garlic bread—rich butter, herbs, and plenty of garlic—and transforms them into a gooey, scoopable dip that’s perfect for game days, holidays, or any time I’m craving something indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dip turns a familiar flavor into something totally unexpected and crave-worthy. It’s creamy, garlicky, and loaded with cheese, with a golden baked top that’s irresistible straight out of the oven. Whether I’m serving it with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or even fresh veggies, it’s always one of the first things to disappear at the table.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cream cheese, softened

• Sour cream or mayonnaise

• Mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Parmesan cheese, grated

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Italian seasoning

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.

2. In a large bowl, I mix together the cream cheese, sour cream (or mayo), melted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. I stir in the shredded mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.

4. I spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish and top it with the remaining Parmesan.

5. I bake the dip for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. I let it cool slightly, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6–8 people. It takes 10 minutes to prep and about 25 minutes to bake, so I usually have it ready in 35 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped spinach or cooked crumbled sausage for a heartier version. I’ve also made it with a layer of marinara underneath for a pizza-style twist. If I want more flavor, I use roasted garlic instead of raw. For a spicier dip, I stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I scoop it into a small dish and warm it in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly. I add a little extra cheese on top before reheating to freshen it up.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the dip the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to serve, I just bake it as directed.

What’s the best cheese combo for this dip?

Mozzarella gives it that gooey texture, while Parmesan adds sharpness. I’ve also added a little provolone or fontina for extra richness.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, I’ve used garlic powder in a pinch—about ½ teaspoon for every clove. But I prefer fresh for the boldest flavor.

What should I serve with this dip?

I serve it with slices of toasted baguette, pita chips, garlic breadsticks, or even sturdy crackers. It’s also great with raw veggies like bell peppers or carrots.

Can I freeze this dip?

I don’t recommend freezing it—the texture can change when thawed. It’s best fresh or refrigerated for a few days.

Conclusion

Baked garlic bread dip is everything I love about classic garlic bread, but even cheesier and more shareable. It’s the kind of appetizer that brings people together and disappears fast. Whether I’m hosting a party or just treating myself to something cozy and flavorful, this dip always hits the spot.