If you’re a fan of all things cheesy, garlicky, and crave-worthy, this Baked Garlic Bread Dip will instantly earn a spot in your comfort food lineup. Imagine everything you love about classic garlic bread, but transformed into a bubbling, golden brown appetizer that’s just begging to be scooped up with crispy slices of bread. Whether you’re hosting game night, prepping for a potluck, or simply looking to treat yourself, this gooey masterpiece has “crowd-pleaser” written all over it. Trust me, it’s the kind of dish where everyone huddles around the pan, eager for just one more dip — and it’s every bit as irresistible as it sounds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Baked Garlic Bread Dip is how it turns humble, accessible ingredients into something truly magical. Each component adds its own distinct personality — from creamy richness to cheesy pull to bold, fresh flavor — all coming together in every scoop.
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces, softened): The silky base that makes each bite decadently smooth and tangy.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Lends a gentle tang and helps keep the dip luscious and creamy.
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Adds subtle richness and helps bind all that cheese together.
- Shredded Mozzarella (1 cup): For those epic cheese pulls and a perfectly melty texture.
- Grated Parmesan (1/2 cup): Brings a salty, nutty depth that balances the cheeses.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): The unmistakable star, infusing the dip with punchy boldness.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Layers in even more garlicky flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to highlight every other flavor.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and rounds everything out.
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): For vibrant color and a burst of herbaceous freshness.
- French Baguette or Italian Bread (sliced, for serving): The ideal vessel for scooping up every last bit of that cheesy, garlicky perfection.
How to Make Baked Garlic Bread Dip
Step 1: Prep the Creamy Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot by the time your dip is ready to bake. Grab a medium mixing bowl and add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Using a hand mixer or sturdy spatula, blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and dreamy — this is your flavor foundation!
Step 2: Load in the Cheesy Goodness
Pour in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, and get ready to transform your creamy base into a cheese lover’s paradise. Stir well, making sure every bit of cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dip for maximum melty magic in every scoop.
Step 3: Bring on the Garlic
Toss in the minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and that fresh, grassy parsley. The combination of both fresh and powdered garlic layers in bold, unmistakable flavor while the parsley adds color and brightness – little details that make Baked Garlic Bread Dip truly pop.
Step 4: Transfer and Smooth
Once everything is mixed, scrape the mixture into a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Smooth out the top with a spatula so it bakes up evenly and looks as inviting as it tastes.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and let it bake for 20–25 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden brown on top. The whole kitchen will smell like a garlic bread fantasy! Let the dip cool for a few minutes to avoid molten cheese mouth, then serve it up with those crispy bread slices.
How to Serve Baked Garlic Bread Dip
Garnishes
A final flourish of freshly chopped parsley gives your Baked Garlic Bread Dip a restaurant-worthy look and a hit of garden-fresh flavor. For an even bolder kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top just before serving — especially if your crowd likes a little heat.
Side Dishes
Naturally, sliced toasted baguette or Italian bread is a must for scooping up all that cheesy bliss, but don’t stop there. Crackers and crunchy breadsticks both make fantastic dippers, and for something a little lighter, offer crisp veggies like carrot sticks and bell pepper strips alongside for a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra wow-factor, try serving Baked Garlic Bread Dip straight from a rustic cast-iron skillet or a bread bowl — it’s like a party on a platter! Small ramekins make it easy to serve individual portions at gatherings, or you can surround the dip with an eye-catching array of breads, crackers, and veggies for a snack board spread that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Baked Garlic Bread Dip left (no judgment if you don’t!), let the dip cool to room temperature, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It holds up beautifully, retaining its cheesy texture and bold garlic flavor even after chilling.
Freezing
Want to plan ahead? Assemble the dip (but don’t bake), wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual — just add an extra five minutes to the bake time to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
To reheat leftover Baked Garlic Bread Dip, simply place it in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm at 350°F until hot and bubbly, about 15 minutes. You can also zap individual servings in the microwave for a quick fix — just heat in short bursts, stirring in between, to keep it creamy.
FAQs
Can I make this Baked Garlic Bread Dip a day in advance?
Absolutely! Just assemble the dip, cover it, and stash it in the fridge up to a day ahead. When you’re ready to bake, pop it straight into the oven, adding about 5 extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled start.
Is there a way to make this dip a little lighter?
You can definitely swap in light or reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise without sacrificing taste or texture. It’ll still turn out creamy and decadent, just with a little less richness.
What else can I serve with this dip besides bread?
Baked Garlic Bread Dip goes well with almost anything dunkable! Try sturdy crackers, pita chips, doughy breadsticks, or a selection of fresh-cut veggies like cucumbers, broccoli florets, or sweet pepper strips for a bit of crunch.
Can I add other cheeses or toppings?
Go for it! Fontina, Gruyère, or even a bit of sharp cheddar blend right in for extra flavor. For a heartier, pizza-inspired vibe, scatter some cooked crumbled sausage or chopped pepperoni over the top before baking.
Will this dip work in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Baked Garlic Bread Dip in a slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours, just until hot and bubbly. It’s great for parties, since it keeps your dip warm and melty all night long.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a truly unforgettable cheesy experience, whip up this Baked Garlic Bread Dip for your next get-together or cozy night in. With its irresistible flavor and gooey texture, it’s guaranteed to steal the show and earn you plenty of recipe requests. Don’t wait — take the plunge and get dipping!
Print
Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this creamy and flavorful Baked Garlic Bread Dip that’s perfect for sharing at any gathering. This warm, cheesy dip with a hint of garlic is a crowd-pleaser and pairs wonderfully with sliced, toasted baguette or Italian bread.
Ingredients
Creamy Garlic Dip:
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Serving:
- 1 French baguette or Italian bread, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Dip: In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. Add mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
- Bake: Spread the mixture into a baking dish or skillet. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving with sliced, toasted bread.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes.
- This dip pairs well with crackers or fresh vegetables.
- To make ahead, refrigerate and add 5 minutes to bake time if starting with a cold dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
