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Marry Me Dip

A creamy, cheesy sun-dried tomato dip that’s perfect for gatherings, combining silky cream cheese and tangy flavors for a delightful appetizer.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dip
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest result.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided Reserve 1/4 cup for topping.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is preferable.
  • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and roughly chopped Drain but reserve a teaspoon of the oil for added richness if desired.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, for garnish Or 1 teaspoon dried basil.
Optional Addition
  • 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken For a heartier version.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 1-quart (or similar) baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
  3. Have your cream cheese at room temperature so it blends smoothly.
Mix the Base
  1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream until the mixture is silky.
  3. Add 3/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella, the Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  4. If using shredded chicken, fold it in now.
  5. The mixture should be thick but spreadable with visible bits of tomato and herb.
Bake
  1. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella evenly over the top.
  3. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the dip is bubbling around the edges and the cheese on top is lightly golden.
  4. The center should be hot and steaming when you insert a spoon.
Finish and Serve
  1. Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes. The dip will thicken slightly but remain very creamy.
  2. Garnish with chopped fresh basil.
  3. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Notes

Use room-temperature cream cheese for a lump-free base. Drain sun-dried tomatoes well; squeezing out excess oil prevents a greasy dip. Variations include adding sun-dried tomato oil for extra tang, making it a meal by folding in shredded chicken, or creating a lighter version with Greek yogurt.