Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

If you have a soft spot for all things cheesy, garlicky, and baked to bubbly perfection, then you’re going to adore this Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug at a party or a cozy night in, blending the roasted sweetness of garlic with luscious cream cheeses and melty mozzarella, all finished with a golden crust. This dip brings together rich flavors and creamy textures that are utterly irresistible, making it a standout snack or appetizer that will have everyone reaching for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays a vital role in crafting a dip that’s creamy, savory, and packed with garlic goodness. From the mellow roasted garlic heads to the creamy blend of cheeses, every element adds layers of flavor and richness that make this dish shine.

• 3 heads of garlic: Roasting these transforms their flavor into a sweet, caramelized base that is the heart of the dip.
• Drizzle of olive oil: Adds moisture and helps garlic roast beautifully without drying out.
• Kosher salt (as needed): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the subtle notes of garlic and cheese.
• 2 cloves fresh garlic (grated or pressed): Gives a sharp, fresh garlic punch alongside the roasted garlic’s mellow sweetness.
• 8 ounce block cream cheese (room temperature): Creates the creamy, smooth base that holds the dip together luxuriously.
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (room temperature): Adds a subtle richness and slightly grainy texture that balances the cream cheese.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Gives a tangy creaminess that brightens the overall flavor profile.
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor that complements the mild cheeses.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic intensity without adding moisture.
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley: Adds fresh herbal brightness and a pop of green color.
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives: Offers a mild oniony flavor that enhances the dip’s complexity.
• ½ cup Asiago cheese (or more mozzarella): Provides a sharper cheese note with a wonderful melt.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistibly gooey, stretchy melted topping everyone loves.
• 2 teaspoons white truffle oil (optional): Lends a luxurious, earthy aroma that takes this dip to another level.
• Crostini, crackers, or chips for serving: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheesy goodness.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Garlic to Sweet Perfection

Start by trimming the tops off the garlic heads just enough to expose the cloves, then drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle a bit of salt. Wrap each head in foil and roast in a 375ºF oven for about 40 to 55 minutes until the cloves are tender and golden. This slow roasting unlocks the garlic’s natural sweetness and softens it, which is essential for that melt-in-your-mouth dip texture.

Step 2: Mash and Mix the Creamy Base

Once the roasted garlic cools, squeeze the softened cloves out and mash them into a paste with a fork. This paste is where the magic begins! Add this to a medium bowl along with fresh grated garlic, cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, parsley, chives, and Asiago cheese. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly—this creamy mixture is the rich foundation of the Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the creamy garlic mixture into a small baking dish that you’ve sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Smooth it out and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Don’t be shy here; the mozzarella is what gives us that bubbly, golden cheese crust that’s pure comfort on a plate.

Step 4: Bake to Melty, Golden Goodness

Pop the dish into a 400ºF oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese on top melts completely. To get that perfect golden finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 15 to 60 seconds, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn. The resulting top will be beautifully bubbly and slightly crisped, inviting you to dive right in.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches and Serve

Remove the dip from the oven and, if you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle the surface with two teaspoons of white truffle oil for a subtle earthy fragrance that pairs so well with the rich cheeses. Serve it warm straight from the baking dish alongside crispy crostini, crackers, or chips, and get ready for a flavor-packed experience that warms your heart.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top brightens the appearance and adds a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese. You could even add a dash of red pepper flakes for those who like a hint of spice with their savory dip.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs wonderfully with crunchy sides like toasted baguette slices or crispy crostini for scooping, but don’t underestimate chips or lightly salted crackers—they bring a satisfying texture contrast. It’s also fantastic alongside a fresh green salad to balance all that cheesy richness with crisp veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of a traditional baking dish, try making individual dip portions in small ramekins for parties—everyone loves their own personalized cheesy treasure. You could also hollow out a rustic loaf of bread and bake the dip inside the bread itself, creating a stunning edible serving bowl that’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftover dip to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, and the flavors actually deepen as it rests!

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe later, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to retain that creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover dip gently in a small baking dish at 350ºF for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Covering it loosely with foil helps prevent the cheese on top from drying out too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, but baking is ideal to preserve that gooey, melty texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh in this recipe?

While pre-minced garlic is convenient, fresh garlic—especially grated or pressed—delivers a brighter, more vibrant flavor that is key to making the Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe truly stand out.

Is it possible to make this dip vegan or dairy-free?

You can experiment with vegan cream cheese, sour cream alternatives, and non-dairy mozzarella, but the flavor and texture will be different. Roasted garlic still adds great depth, though!

How long can I keep the dip before baking?

If you want to prepare ahead, the roasted garlic can be made several days in advance and stored in the fridge. Mix all the ingredients just before baking to keep everything fresh and flavorful.

What’s the best cheese to substitute Asiago if I don’t have any?

Pecorino Romano or a sharp aged cheddar make excellent substitutes that bring a similar salty, nutty flavor and melt beautifully in the dip.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether you’re hosting friends or cozying up with family. Its rich, garlicky, ooey-gooey nature makes it an ultimate crowd-pleaser and the perfect way to elevate any gathering or snack time. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch it become a favorite in your own kitchen.

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