This Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Dip is fresh and tasty! With juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, it’s like a party in a bowl. Perfect for snacking!
I love serving this dip with crispy bread or crunchy veggies. It’s so easy to whip up that I often make it for last-minute gatherings. Trust me, it disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, perfect for roasting. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes work too! I usually choose the ripest ones for the best flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella: I love using fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella can work, but the taste won’t be quite the same.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds a lovely creaminess. For a lighter option, consider cottage cheese, though the texture will be different.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. If you’re out, any neutral oil will do, but it won’t have the same richness.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright flavor. If it’s not available, dried basil can work, but use less since dried herbs are stronger.
How Do I Get the Cheese and Tomatoes Just Right?
The key to this dip is baking it just long enough to melt the cheese and roast the tomatoes, transforming them into a flavorful topping. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your oven well to get a nice, even cook.
- Make sure the tomatoes are coated in oil and seasonings before baking. It enhances their flavor.
- Bake until the edges of the cheese look golden and the tomatoes are soft, usually around 20-25 minutes.
Lastly, sprinkling the basil right after baking helps keep its vibrant color and fresh taste. Enjoy this warm dip with your favorite bread for a delightful treat!
Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Dip
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh mozzarella cheese, torn or chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Baguette or Italian bread, sliced and grilled for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip should take about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you can expect to spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dip will cook evenly and get nice and bubbly!
2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
In a small baking dish, throw in the cherry tomatoes. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the minced garlic, some salt, pepper, and the red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat!). Give it a good toss to coat everything well.
3. Mix the Cheeses:
In a separate bowl, combine the torn mozzarella and ricotta cheeses, along with the remaining minced garlic, a pinch of salt and pepper, and the other tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well until combined.
4. Assemble the Dip:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Then, spoon the tomato mixture right on top— make sure to get all those juicy tomatoes sorted out evenly over the cheese!
5. Bake Away!
Now it’s time to pop the dish in the oven! Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown, and the tomatoes look nicely roasted. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
6. Add Fresh Basil:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the fresh basil leaves over the top of the dip. It adds a beautiful touch and a burst of flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with slices of grilled baguette or Italian bread for dipping. This dip is perfect for sharing with friends and family—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
With its blend of fresh and creamy flavors, this Tomato Mozzarella Caprese Dip is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes are perfect for roasting, you can use other types like grape or even diced heirloom tomatoes. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as larger tomatoes may take a bit longer to soften.
What Should I Serve with This Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with sliced and grilled baguette or Italian bread. You can also serve it with fresh veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or celery sticks for a lighter option!
Can I Prepare This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the dip without baking it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bake it just before serving for that fresh, warm experience!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Enjoy it again warm for the best taste!
