Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Fusion: Enjoy the fresh taste of Caprese salad in a warm, cheesy dip.
- Simple Preparation: Requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties and gatherings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pairs well with various dippers like crusty bread, crackers, or chips.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into chunks
- 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for serving
Directions
- Roast the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, basil pesto, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Roast for 15 minutes until the tomatoes are softened.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: While the tomatoes are roasting, mix together the sour cream, chopped fresh basil, fresh mozzarella chunks, shredded provolone, and grated Parmesan in a large bowl.
- Combine and Bake: Remove the roasted tomatoes from the oven and add them to the cheese mixture. Stir to combine. Return the mixture to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned around the edges.
- Serve: Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 10 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture before roasting for a spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme into the cheese mixture for added flavor.
- Cheese Swap: Replace provolone with mozzarella or add a blend of Italian cheeses for a different taste.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free sour cream and vegan cheese alternatives to make this dip vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip up to the point of baking. Assemble the dip in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil provides a vibrant flavor, you can substitute dried basil. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried basil in place of the 1/2 cup of fresh basil.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, offering a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute provolone with other cheeses like gouda or fontina. Ensure the cheese melts well to achieve the desired creamy texture.
How do I prevent the dip from becoming too watery?
Ensure the tomatoes are well-drained before roasting to prevent excess moisture.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, assemble the dip in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Can I freeze this dip?
It’s not recommended to freeze this dip, as the texture may change upon reheating.
What can I serve with this dip?
This dip pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables like celery and carrots.
How can I make this dip spicier?
Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture before roasting, or mix in some diced jalapeños for added heat.
Conclusion
This Easy Caprese Dip brings the classic flavors of Caprese salad into a warm, cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to become a favorite at your next gathering.
Print
Caprese Dip
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Caprese Dip transforms the classic Caprese salad into a warm, cheesy appetizer, perfect for any gathering. Combining fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella with a creamy base, it’s a delightful twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into chunks
- 8 oz shredded provolone cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Roast the Tomatoes – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, pesto, garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15 minutes until softened.
2️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Mixture – While tomatoes are roasting, combine sour cream, fresh basil, mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan in a large bowl.
3️⃣ Combine & Bake – Add the roasted tomatoes to the cheese mixture. Stir to combine, then return the mixture to the oven. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
4️⃣ Serve – Garnish with extra fresh basil if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until heated through.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
