Savory Italian Five-Layer Dip
This Savory Italian Five-Layer Dip is a delightful appetizer that brings the rich flavors of Italy right to your table. Creamy, cheesy, and layered with zesty pesto and vibrant pimientos, it's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any gathering. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a fun dish to share with friends, this dip will impress your guests and awaken their taste buds. Served warm with crispy crackers or toasted Italian bread, it’s not just a dip; it’s an experience!
6
Servings
200
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Philadelphia Cream Cheese
8 ounces (softened)
Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 cup (divided)
Pesto Sauce
1/3 cup (store-bought)
Chopped Pimiento
4 ounces (drained)
Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese
1/2 cup
Crackers or Sliced Italian Bread
as needed (for serving)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Use an electric mixer set to medium speed to blend until creamy and well combined.
3
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate or quiche dish, creating a smooth layer.
4
Next, carefully layer the pesto sauce over the cream cheese base, spreading it gently to cover it completely.
5
Sprinkle the drained chopped pimientos evenly atop the pesto layer, distributing them well.
6
Add the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pimientos, followed by the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, which will create a delicious, cheesy top layer.
7
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and heated through.
8
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a minute before serving. Enjoy hot with a selection of crackers or sliced Italian bread for dipping!
Nutrition Information
14g
Fat
10g
Carbs
7g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Italian Five-Layer Dip?
It is a delightful, creamy, and cheesy appetizer layered with zesty pesto and vibrant pimientos, served warm with crackers or bread.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What oven temperature is needed for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How much cream cheese is required?
You will need 8 ounces of softened Philadelphia Cream Cheese.
What are the five layers in this dip?
The layers consist of a cream cheese and Parmesan base, pesto sauce, chopped pimientos, shredded mozzarella, and a final topping of Parmesan.
How do I prepare the base layer?
Combine softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese using an electric mixer until creamy, then spread in a dish.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A 9-inch pie plate or quiche dish is recommended.
How much pesto sauce should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of store-bought pesto sauce.
Do the pimientos need any preparation?
Yes, the 4 ounces of chopped pimientos should be drained before adding them to the dip.
What type of mozzarella is best for this recipe?
Shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese is recommended.
How long does the dip need to bake?
Bake the dip for 15 minutes or until it is bubbling and heated through.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredients list, this is a vegetarian-friendly dip.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 200 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 14g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
There are 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 7g of protein.
What should I serve with the Savory Italian Five-Layer Dip?
It is best served with a selection of crackers or sliced Italian bread.
How much Parmesan cheese is needed in total?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, divided into two parts.
When should I add the second portion of Parmesan?
The remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan is sprinkled on top after the mozzarella cheese.
Can I use an electric mixer for the base?
Yes, an electric mixer set to medium speed is recommended to blend the cream cheese and Parmesan until creamy.
Should the dip be served hot or cold?
This dip is intended to be served hot and bubbling right out of the oven.
How do I know when the dip is finished cooking?
The dip is ready when it is bubbling and thoroughly heated through after about 15 minutes of baking.
What is the preparation time category for this recipe?
This recipe falls under the < 30 Mins category.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags include italian dip, appetizer, party food, cheesy dip, pesto, easy recipe, layered dip, quick snacks, and vegetarian.
What is the texture of the base layer?
The base layer is smooth and creamy due to the mixture of softened cream cheese and Parmesan.
Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
While the recipe suggests store-bought, you can certainly use 1/3 cup of homemade pesto sauce.
Does the recipe include any fiber or sugar?
The provided nutritional information indicates that fiber and sugar levels are not specified or are negligible.
Is the mozzarella added before or after the pimientos?
The mozzarella is added after the layer of chopped pimientos.
Is there a specific brand of cream cheese mentioned?
The recipe specifically mentions Philadelphia Cream Cheese.
Can I use a different type of bread for dipping?
Yes, while Italian bread is suggested, any toasted bread or crackers will work well with this dip.