Description
Savory Baked Bruschetta Dip with Fresh Basil and Garlic is a warm, cheesy appetizer that combines the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, and pungent garlic into a creamy, indulgent dip. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or casual snacking, this versatile dish offers a rich blend of tastes and textures that melt together beautifully when baked, creating a golden, bubbling top and a deliciously smooth interior.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes (Roma or vine), finely diced and drained
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prep the fresh ingredients: Finely dice the fresh tomatoes and mince the garlic cloves. Chop the basil leaves finely to release their aromatic oils, ensuring every bite of your dip is bursting with flavor.
- Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and a handful of grated Parmesan. Stir until creamy and well blended—this mix will be the rich foundation that holds your bruschetta flavors together.
- Fold in the veggies and herbs: Carefully fold in the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil, mixing gently to evenly distribute all the ingredients without turning the dip watery.
- Season and spice: Add salt, pepper, and if you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning to taste, balancing the fresh and savory components perfectly.
- Bake until bubbly: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, top with extra Parmesan and mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns golden and bubbling.
- Garnish and serve: Once out of the oven, let the dip rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This rest time helps the dip thicken slightly for easier scooping.
Notes
- Use room temperature cheese for smoother blending.
- Drain diced tomatoes well to avoid a watery dip.
- Do not overbake to keep dip creamy.
- Always use fresh basil for best flavor.
- Serve warm for optimal taste and texture.
- This dip can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg