Garlic Bread Dip Recipe for Cheesy Perfection

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Garlic Bread Dip

This Baked Garlic Bread Dip is not just any dip; it’s an experience. Imagine a rich, decadent filling, infused with the sweet, mellow notes of roasted garlic and the subtle bite of shallots, all swimming in a creamy, cheesy embrace. It’s the kind of dip that beckons you back for “just one more bite” and makes your guests rave. Whether you’re planning a game night, a holiday gathering, or a quiet evening with loved ones, this dip is the perfect accompaniment. Its versatility means it pairs exquisitely with crusty, toasted bread, crunchy bagel chips, or warm, fluffy pita. Forget complicated recipes – this garlic bread dip is surprisingly simple to whip up, proving that gourmet taste doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Get ready to make a batch that will vanish before your eyes!

Ingredients for Cheesy Perfection

The magic of this Garlic Bread Dip lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients, carefully balanced for maximum flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that irresistible taste and creamy consistency.

• Garlic: 1 head (about 10-12 cloves), roasted. Roasting garlic mellows its sharp bite into a sweet, nutty undertone that is crucial for the dip’s depth of flavor.
  • Substitution: If you’re short on time, you can use about 2 tablespoons of store-bought roasted garlic paste, or 1 tablespoon of minced raw garlic combined with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder for a punchier, though less sweet, flavor.
• Shallots: 2 small, finely minced. Shallots offer a milder, sweeter onion flavor than regular onions, complementing the garlic beautifully.
  • Substitution: 1 small yellow onion, finely minced, will work, but may impart a slightly sharper onion taste.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, plus more for roasting garlic. This forms the base for sautéing the aromatics, infusing them with richness.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. This is the creamy, foundational element of our dip, providing a smooth, luscious texture.
  • Substitution: For a slightly tangier profile, you could use Neufchâtel cheese. For a lighter option, consider using half cream cheese and half Greek yogurt, though this will alter the richness and texture slightly.
• Sour Cream: ½ cup. Adds tanginess and further enhances the creamy texture.
  • Substitution: Use full-fat plain Greek yogurt for a similar tang and creaminess, or a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
• Mayonnaise: ¼ cup. Contributes a subtle richness and smooth mouthfeel.
  • Substitution: For a less traditional but still rich option, use a good quality aioli or omit entirely if you prefer a lighter dip.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, finely grated. Adds a salty, nutty, umami punch that is essential for the “cheesy” part of garlic bread.
  • Substitution: Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can be used for a similar salty, sharp flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup, shredded. Melts beautifully and provides that classic gooey, stretchy cheese pull.
  • Substitution: Provolone or a Monterey Jack cheese blend will also melt well and offer delicious cheesiness.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, plus more for garnish. Adds a fresh, herbaceous lift to cut through the richness.
  • Substitution: Chives or a touch of fresh dill can offer a different but pleasant herbaceous note.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Enhances all the other flavors.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Adds a subtle warmth.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch, for a hint of heat.

Timing is Everything

When planning your appetizer, factor in the passive time for roasting the garlic. If you roast the garlic ahead of time (which is highly recommended!), the active prep time for the dip itself is only about 15 minutes, making it incredibly weeknight-friendly.

Prep Time

About 15 minutes of active work—chopping shallots, mixing ingredients, grating cheese.

Cook Time

20-25 minutes in the oven until bubbly and golden.

Total Time

Around 1 hour if you include roasting the garlic from scratch. If garlic is roasted ahead, it’s significantly faster!

Comparing to Average Recipes

Many baked dips can take longer due to more complex ingredient prep or longer baking times. This Garlic Bread Dip is generally quicker to assemble than elaborate layered dips and has a similar or shorter cook time than many casseroles, making it a time-efficient crowd-pleaser.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get this delicious dip in the oven! Follow these simple steps for a truly irresistible Garlic Bread Dip.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish

First things first, let’s get your oven ready. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Grab a small oven-safe baking dish, like a 7×7 inch square pan or a medium gratin dish. Lightly grease it with a little olive oil or cooking spray to prevent any sticking, ensuring your perfectly baked dip slides right out.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base

If you haven’t already, roast your garlic. Slice off the top quarter of the head of garlic, drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap tightly in foil, and bake for about 40 minutes until soft and golden. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze the softened cloves out of their skins into a small bowl. Mash them with a fork until they form a paste. In a separate small skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced shallots and sauté until they are softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. You want them fragrant and tender, not browned.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy, Cheesy Goodness

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Beat them together with a spoon or a hand mixer until smooth and well combined. Stir in the roasted garlic paste, the sautéed shallots, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh parsley, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix everything gently until just combined. Don’t overmix; you want to maintain a lovely texture.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spoon the cheesy garlic mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top is beautifully melted and lightly golden brown. You’re looking for that irresistible, golden-crusted perfection!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the dip rest for a few minutes. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop. Garnish with a little extra chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping vessels. Get ready for the compliments!

Nutritional Information

While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving of this Garlic Bread Dip (based on 8 servings) is approximately:

• Calories: ~250-300 kcal
• Fat: ~20-25g
• Saturated Fat: ~10-12g
• Cholesterol: ~50-60mg
• Carbohydrates: ~5-8g
• Protein: ~10-12g
• Sodium: ~300-400mg

(Note: This is an estimate. For precise information, calculate based on your specific ingredients.)

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten up this decadent dip without sacrificing flavor? Here are a few smart swaps:

• Lighter Creaminess: Replace half of the cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2% for best texture). This adds protein and reduces fat content while maintaining a creamy, tangy base.
• Reduced Fat Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat cream cheese and shredded mozzarella. While they might not melt quite as luxuriously, they still offer great flavor.
• Boosted Veggies: While not a direct swap, incorporating finely chopped, sautéed mushrooms or spinach can add nutrients and volume without significantly altering the taste.
• Minimize Mayo: Reduce the mayonnaise or replace it with an equal amount of Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter profile.
• Serving Swap: Instead of bread, serve with abundant fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumber slices.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Bread Dip is incredibly versatile! It’s fantastic served warm, straight from the oven:

• Toasted Baguette Slices: The classic pairing. Slice a baguette, brush with olive oil and garlic powder, and toast until golden.
• Crusty Bread: Any hearty, crusty bread works wonderfully.
• Pita Bread/Pita Chips: Warm pita bread or crunchy pita chips are a delightful textural contrast.
• Vegetable Sticks: For a healthier option, serve with crisp carrot sticks, celery stalks, bell pepper strips, or cucumber slices.
• Crackers and Pretzels: A good sturdy cracker or some seasoned pretzels also make for great dipping partners.
• As a Spread: Enjoy a dollop on sandwiches or burgers for an extra flavor boost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Prevent common pitfalls to ensure your dip is a resounding success:

• Under-Roasting Garlic: Raw or undercooked garlic will make the dip too pungent. Ensure your garlic is soft, sweet, and spreadable.
• Not Softening Cream Cheese: Cold, hard cream cheese will result in a lumpy dip. Let it sit at room temperature until pliable.
• Over-Baking: While you want it bubbly and golden, over-baking can cause the dip to dry out or the cheese to become tough. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time.
• Not Seasoning Adequately: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before baking. The cheeses can be salty, so start with the recommended amounts and adjust if needed.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Grating your own from a block will yield a smoother, meltier dip.

Storing Your Delicious Dip

Leftovers of this incredible dip can be stored, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Refrigeration: Allow the dip to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly upon reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, transfer the dip back to an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can gently reheat it in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, but it may not be as creamy.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Dip!

This Baked Garlic Bread Dip is more than just an appetizer; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a conversation starter, and a guaranteed hit at any gathering. The combination of sweet roasted garlic, sharp shallots, and a rich, cheesy blend makes it undeniably irresistible. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, it’s the perfect dish to have in your entertaining repertoire. Don’t wait to impress your friends and family – whip up this garlic bread dip for your next occasion, or simply treat yourself to a cozy night in!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Baked Garlic Bread Dip

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ThisBaked Garlic Bread Dipis creamy, cheesy, and packed with the rich, roasted flavors of garlic and shallots. Perfect for entertaining or cozy nights in, this dip pairs beautifully with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita for dipping. A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and absolutely irresistible!

• Author: Chef Sally

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For Roasting:2whole shallots, bottoms cut off2heads garlic, tops cut off2 tbspolive oilFor the Dip:1(8 oz) block cream cheese, softened1 cupsour cream1 1/2 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese, divided1/2 cupgrated parmesan cheese1/2 cupfresh chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish)1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 2whole shallots, bottoms cut off2heads garlic, tops cut off2 tbspolive oil
• 2heads garlic, tops cut off2 tbspolive oil
• 2 tbspolive oil
• For the Dip:1(8 oz) block cream cheese, softened1 cupsour cream1 1/2 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese, divided1/2 cupgrated parmesan cheese1/2 cupfresh chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish)1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1(8 oz) block cream cheese, softened1 cupsour cream1 1/2 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese, divided1/2 cupgrated parmesan cheese1/2 cupfresh chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish)1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1 cupsour cream1 1/2 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese, divided1/2 cupgrated parmesan cheese1/2 cupfresh chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish)1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese, divided1/2 cupgrated parmesan cheese1/2 cupfresh chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish)1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1/2 cupgrated parmesan cheese1/2 cupfresh chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish)1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1/2 cupfresh chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish)1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1/2 tspsalt1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsppepper1/2 tspred pepper flakes
• 1/2 tspred pepper flakes

Instructions

1. 1️⃣Preheat and Prep for Roasting:
2. Preheat your oven to375°F.Using a sharp knife, cut off the tops of the garlic heads and the bottoms of the shallots to expose the cloves and bulbs.2️⃣Roast Garlic and Shallots:Place the garlic heads and shallots on a sheet of aluminum foil.Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.Wrap tightly in the foil and roast in the oven for1 hour, or until the garlic and shallots are soft and caramelized.3️⃣Prepare the Garlic and Shallot Paste:Once roasted, let the garlic and shallots cool slightly. Squeeze them out of their skins into a mixing bowl.Mash with a fork until they form a smooth paste.4️⃣Mix the Dip Base:Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut off the tops of the garlic heads and the bottoms of the shallots to expose the cloves and bulbs.2️⃣Roast Garlic and Shallots:Place the garlic heads and shallots on a sheet of aluminum foil.Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.Wrap tightly in the foil and roast in the oven for1 hour, or until the garlic and shallots are soft and caramelized.3️⃣Prepare the Garlic and Shallot Paste:Once roasted, let the garlic and shallots cool slightly. Squeeze them out of their skins into a mixing bowl.Mash with a fork until they form a smooth paste.4️⃣Mix the Dip Base:Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
4. 2️⃣Roast Garlic and Shallots:
5. Place the garlic heads and shallots on a sheet of aluminum foil.Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.Wrap tightly in the foil and roast in the oven for1 hour, or until the garlic and shallots are soft and caramelized.3️⃣Prepare the Garlic and Shallot Paste:Once roasted, let the garlic and shallots cool slightly. Squeeze them out of their skins into a mixing bowl.Mash with a fork until they form a smooth paste.4️⃣Mix the Dip Base:Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.Wrap tightly in the foil and roast in the oven for1 hour, or until the garlic and shallots are soft and caramelized.3️⃣Prepare the Garlic and Shallot Paste:Once roasted, let the garlic and shallots cool slightly. Squeeze them out of their skins into a mixing bowl.Mash with a fork until they form a smooth paste.4️⃣Mix the Dip Base:Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
7. Wrap tightly in the foil and roast in the oven for1 hour, or until the garlic and shallots are soft and caramelized.
8. 3️⃣Prepare the Garlic and Shallot Paste:Once roasted, let the garlic and shallots cool slightly. Squeeze them out of their skins into a mixing bowl.Mash with a fork until they form a smooth paste.4️⃣Mix the Dip Base:Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
9. Once roasted, let the garlic and shallots cool slightly. Squeeze them out of their skins into a mixing bowl.Mash with a fork until they form a smooth paste.4️⃣Mix the Dip Base:Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
10. Mash with a fork until they form a smooth paste.
11. 4️⃣Mix the Dip Base:Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
12. Add the softened cream cheese and sour cream to the bowl with the garlic-shallot paste. Mix until well-combined.Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
13. Stir in1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth.
14. 5️⃣Assemble the Dip:Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
15. Transfer the dip mixture to an 8 or 9-inch pie plate, spreading it into an even layer.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
16. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top.
17. 6️⃣Bake the Dip:Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
18. Lower the oven temperature to350°F.Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
19. Bake for20-25 minutes, or until the dip is golden brown and bubbling.
20. 7️⃣Garnish and Serve:Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
21. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.
22. Serve hot with toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.

Notes

Make Ahead:You can prepare the dip mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.Flavor Variations:Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cooked, crumbled bacon for an extra twist.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Flavor Variations:Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or cooked, crumbled bacon for an extra twist.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.