Caprese Dip Recipe

Caprese dip is one of those irresistibly delicious appetizers that can brighten up any gathering. With its fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and vibrant basil flavors, it evokes the essence of a classic Caprese salad, but in a warm, cheesy dip form. I stumbled upon this recipe during a summer barbecue, and since then, it has quickly become my go-to for parties and casual get-togethers. The combination of gooey mozzarella and provolone intertwined with slightly roasted tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that’s simply unforgettable.

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table

What sets this Caprese dip apart is its simplicity and versatility. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience. Perfect for any occasion—whether you’re setting up for a cozy family dinner or hosting a festive holiday party—this dish caters to everyone. Its rich, comforting flavors can convert even the most skeptical eaters into dip enthusiasts. Plus, it’s quick to put together, making it a stress-free yet impressive option for busy cooks.

“This dish is a crowd-pleaser! I can’t believe how quickly it disappeared at our last gathering. Everyone was asking for the recipe!”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Creating this Caprese dip is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by roasting fresh cherry tomatoes, which intensifies their sweetness and flavor. While they roast, you’ll prepare the cheesy goodness that makes this dip so irresistible. The whole process is broken down into simple steps, making it a breeze for both novice and experienced cooks.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable dip:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup fresh chopped basil
• 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese (cut into chunks)
• 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for serving

(You can swap out cheeses based on your preferences, but maintaining the mozzarella and provolone is ideal for texture.)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the oven rack in the middle position.
2. In a 2-quart baking dish or cast iron skillet, add 1 cup of whole cherry tomatoes. Drizzle them with olive oil, then top with basil pesto, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss everything to coat the tomatoes evenly.
3. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for about 15 minutes until they are blistered and starting to soften.
4. Meanwhile, mix together the sour cream and fresh basil in a bowl. Stir in the fresh mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan cheeses until well combined.
5. Once the tomatoes have roasted, add the cheese mixture to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Slice the remaining cup of cherry tomatoes in half and place them on top of the cheese mixture.
6. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the top is slightly golden, and bubbly around the edges.
7. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy with your favorite bread, chips, or crackers!

Best Way to Serve

This Caprese dip shines when paired with crusty bread, crunchy crackers, or even crispy tortilla chips. For an elevated presentation, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the top right before serving. You might also position a small bowl of extra pesto alongside for those who want a flavor boost. Additionally, serving alongside a light salad can complement the richness of the dip beautifully.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Caprese dip (which, let’s be honest, is rare!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 minutes. If you’d like to freeze your dip, be aware that the texture may change, so I recommend making it fresh when you can!

Pro Chef Tips

• Roasting your tomatoes: This step not only enhances their flavor but also helps to create a savory base for the dip. Plus, roasting reduces moisture, keeping your dip from becoming watery.
• Herb infusion: If you want an extra herbaceous hit, consider adding a sprinkle of dried oregano or thyme along with the garlic before roasting.
• Don’t skip the basil: Fresh basil is key to capturing that classic Caprese flavor—do not substitute with dried herbs as it won’t provide the same aromatic experience.

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap out the mozzarella for burrata for a creamier texture, or add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. For a spicy kick, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare this dip?
The total time to prepare and bake the dip is about 50 minutes, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.

Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and provolone provide the best texture, you can try various cheeses like gouda or fontina for different flavors.

Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is gluten-free; just make sure to serve it with gluten-free bread or crackers.

Now, go ahead and make this delightful Caprese dip. It may just become your new favorite appetizer!

Caprese Dip

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• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A warm, cheesy dip that combines fresh cherry tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and vibrant basil flavors, perfect for any gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup fresh chopped basil
• 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese (cut into chunks)
• 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese
• ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the oven rack in the middle position.
2. In a 2-quart baking dish or cast iron skillet, add 1 cup of whole cherry tomatoes. Drizzle them with olive oil, then top with basil pesto, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss to coat the tomatoes evenly.
3. Roast the tomatoes in the oven for about 15 minutes until blistered and slightly softened.
4. Meanwhile, mix together the sour cream and fresh basil in a bowl. Stir in the mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan until well combined.
5. Once the tomatoes are roasted, add the cheese mixture to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Slice the remaining cup of cherry tomatoes in half and place them on top.
6. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
7. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil and enjoy with your favorite bread, chips, or crackers!

Notes

Roasting tomatoes enhances their flavor and reduces moisture. Consider adding extra herbs or using burrata for creaminess.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Caprese dip, appetizer, cheesy dip, Italian, party food