Description
A simple, creamy, and gooey party appetizer made with mozzarella, marinara sauce, and pepperoni. Perfect for tailgates, game days, or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces low-moisture whole-milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 10–12 ounces dry-cured pepperoni slices
- 16 ounces marinara sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Dipping options: warm pita chips, crusty baguette slices, or sturdy tortilla chips
Instructions
- Shred the mozzarella cheese, mince the garlic, and slice the pepperoni if necessary.
- Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of a slow cooker and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over the sauce.
- Scatter half of the pepperoni slices over the cheese.
- Add the remaining marinara sauce on top and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Stir the minced garlic and Italian seasoning into the top layer of cheese.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes over everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 2 hours, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Stir well to combine layers.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Notes
Shred your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Use dry-cured pepperoni for better texture. If the sauce is too watery, simmer it down first. Keep the dip warm on the ‘Warm’ setting during parties. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 18
Keywords: pizza dip, pepperoni dip, slow cooker appetizer, party dip, game day food, cheesy dip, tailgate food