Warm Italian Cheese Dip

I was introduced to this warm Italian cheese dip by my dear friend Priti. She and I have been doing porch swaps meals while we are staying at home and this one tops the list. We inhaled this dish, in fact it’s all we ate for dinner. Lately we have been talking about how fun it would be to host a party where dips from around the world are served. We are looking forward to the day to gather friends and celebrate friendship over our favorite appetizers. Until then the porch swaps will continue.

If you are looking for an appetizer for game day, a potluck, family dinner or holiday gathering, give this recipe a chance. An addicting dip that will not only impress everyone, it will take minutes to prepare. I wouldn’t plan on having leftovers, however if there are don’t worry, they heat up nicely 😉 Another great thing about this dip is the variety of ways you can prepare it to make it your own.

John’s Comments: A dip and spread for toast all in one!

Warm Italian Cheese Dip Recipe

Ingredients

8 oz softened cream cheese
2.5 cups shredded cheese (combination of cheddar and Colby Jack cheese)
½ yellow chopped onion
3 garlic cloves minced
2 cups chopped peppers (use a variety: red, orange, yellow, poblano, Anaheim)
1/2 cup chopped olives (Green or black)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
2 tablespoons pesto
1 tablespoon dried basil or 3 tablespoons fresh basil
1 cup marinara sauce
Optional: Chili flakes, sliced jalapeños, corn, sliced green onions, sun dried tomatoes, cooked bacon, Italian sausage or pepperoni

Instructions

1. Turn oven to 400 degrees
2. Spray a square baking pan (8×8) with non-stick spray
3. Spread a layer of cream cheese on bottom of pan
4. In a deep bowl add remaining ingredients and mix well
5. Spread mixture evenly over cream cheese
6. Cover and bake for 20-25 minutes
7. Broil for 3-4 minutes
8. Serve with bread, heavy crackers, pita chips or vegetables