Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

Make This Heavenly Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe Tonight

Comfort meets creativity in this mouthwatering garlic bread dip that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy.

Crispy golden edges and creamy centers beckon from the serving dish.

Warm, garlicky aromas promise an irresistible experience for anyone who loves bold flavors.

Cheese melts into a luxurious blanket, inviting you to scoop up every delicious bite.

Friends and gatherings come alive with this simple yet spectacular appetizer.

Crusty bread chunks become perfect vehicles for this rich, decadent spread.

You won’t be able to resist diving into this crowd-pleasing sensation that turns ordinary moments into memorable feasts.

Baked Garlic Bread Dip Overview

  • Savor Flavor-Packed Roasting: The slow roasting of garlic and shallots develops deep, rich caramelized flavors that transform this dip into a gourmet experience, creating a mouthwatering appetizer that elevates any gathering.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with creamy cheeses and zesty seasonings, this dip appeals to all ages, making it perfect for game nights, potlucks, or casual family get-togethers where everyone loves to dig in.
  • Master Minimal Prep Magic: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality appetizer that looks impressive but requires minimal culinary skills to prepare.

Ingredients for Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Roasted Aromatics:
  • Garlic Heads: A rich, sweet ingredient that provides a deep, mellow flavor when roasted.
  • Shallots: A mild, sweet allium that adds subtle depth and complexity to the dip.
Dairy Base:
  • Cream Cheese: A creamy, smooth ingredient that creates a rich and thick texture.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and helps create a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: A mild, stretchy cheese that provides melty goodness and golden-brown topping.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sharp, salty cheese that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Parsley, Salt, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: These ingredients add freshness, balance, and a subtle kick of heat to the dip.
Cooking Basics:
  • Olive Oil: Helps roast the aromatics and adds a subtle fruity undertone.

How to Make Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Step 1: Prepare Roasting Setup

Grab a sheet of aluminum foil and gather your garlic and shallots. Use a sharp knife to slice off the tops of garlic heads and bottoms of shallots, preparing them for a flavor-packed transformation.

Step 2: Drizzle and Wrap

Arrange the garlic and shallots on the foil sheet. Generously drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt.

Wrap the ingredients tightly in the foil, creating a cozy packet for roasting.

Step 3: Roast to Perfection

Place the foil packet in a preheated oven at 375F (190C).

Let the garlic and shallots roast for one hour, allowing them to become soft, golden, and intensely flavorful.

Step 4: Create Flavor Base

Remove the roasted garlic and shallots from the oven.

Carefully squeeze the caramelized contents out of their skins into a mixing bowl. Mash the roasted ingredients into a smooth, fragrant paste using a fork.

Step 5: Blend Creamy Ingredients

Add to the paste:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Sour cream

Stir until the mixture becomes silky and smooth.

Step 6: Enhance with Cheese and Herbs

Mix in the following:
  • Shredded mozzarella
  • Grated Parmesan
  • Chopped parsley
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes

Combine all ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the creamy mixture to an 8- or 9-inch pie plate. Spread evenly and top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Reduce oven temperature to 350F (175C). Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges start bubbling.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle extra fresh parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes on top. Serve immediately with toasted bread, bagel chips, or crispy pita chips for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Bread Dip

  • Use fresh, firm garlic heads and avoid any with soft or moldy spots for the most intense, sweet roasted flavor.
  • Cover the garlic and shallots completely with foil during roasting to ensure even caramelization and prevent burning.
  • Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to create a smoother, lump-free dip texture.
  • Experiment with different dippers like crispy tortilla chips, fresh vegetable sticks, or homemade crusty bread for varied taste experiences.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal heat preference – less for mild, more for a spicy kick to the garlic bread dip.

Variations to Try on Garlic Bread Dip

  • Herbed Goat Cheese Variation: Swap cream cheese with tangy goat cheese and add fresh thyme and rosemary for an elegant Mediterranean-style dip.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Popper Spin: Replace mozzarella with pepper jack cheese, mix in diced jalapeños, and top with crispy bacon crumbles for a zesty kick.
  • Vegan Cashew Cream Dip: Use soaked cashews blended with nutritional yeast, roasted garlic, and plant-based cream cheese as a dairy-free alternative. Garnish with chives and smoked paprika.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Base Option: Substitute bread chips with roasted cauliflower florets or crispy vegetable chips for a lighter, keto-friendly version of the original recipe.

Pairing Suggestions with Garlic Bread Dip

  • Select a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, creamy texture of the garlic bread dip, cutting through its bold flavors with refreshing acidity.
  • Choose artisan sourdough or ciabatta bread, lightly toasted and cut into thick slices, to provide the perfect sturdy vehicle for scooping up the warm, cheesy dip.
  • Add a plate of prosciutto, salami, and mild cheeses like Gruyère to create a balanced appetizer spread that enhances the dip's robust garlic and cheese profile.

Storage Advice for Garlic Bread Dip

  • Store leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or lid to prevent drying out and absorbing other refrigerator odors.
  • Transfer cooled dip to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Seal completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing with garnishes.
  • Place desired portion in microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through. Add a splash of milk to restore creamy texture if needed.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Place dip in oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

  • Why roast garlic and shallots before adding to the dip?

Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deeper, richer flavor. The caramelization process softens the harsh raw taste and adds a mellow, complex taste to the dip.

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with other melting cheeses like cheddar, gruyère, or fontina. Just ensure they melt well and complement the roasted garlic flavor.

  • How do I know when the dip is perfectly baked?

Look for golden brown edges and a bubbling surface. The cheese should be completely melted and the dip should look creamy and slightly puffy when it’s ready to come out of the oven.

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Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

Baked Garlic Bread Dip Recipe


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4.6 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Garlic bread dip invites comfort and warmth to your table, blending rich Italian flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness. Cheese-lovers and bread enthusiasts will discover a simple yet irresistible appetizer perfect for sharing with friends and family.


Ingredients

Scale

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 1 (8 ounces) block softened cream cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Main Vegetables and Herbs:

  • 2 whole shallots (bottoms cut off)
  • 2 heads garlic (tops cut off)
  • 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley (reserve some for topping)

Seasonings and Oil:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare for roasting by preheating the oven to 375F (190C). Trim the tops of garlic heads and bottoms of shallots using a sharp knife.
  2. Arrange garlic and shallots on aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt. Wrap completely and roast for 1 hour until vegetables become soft and caramelized.
  3. Extract roasted garlic and shallots from their skins directly into a mixing bowl. Crush and transform into a smooth paste using a fork.
  4. Incorporate softened cream cheese and sour cream into the roasted vegetable paste. Blend until completely smooth and uniform in texture.
  5. Add mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to the creamy mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
  6. Transfer the prepared mixture into an 8- or 9-inch pie plate, ensuring an even spread. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese across the top.
  7. Reduce oven temperature to 350F (175C). Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and develops a bubbly texture.
  8. Finish by garnishing with additional fresh parsley and a light dusting of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately alongside toasted bread, bagel chips, or pita chips for dipping.

Notes

  • Roast garlic and shallots low and slow to develop deep, sweet caramelized flavors that intensify the overall dip complexity.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese and sour cream to ensure smooth, lump-free mixing and consistent texture throughout the dip.
  • Choose high-quality, freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for richer melting and more authentic cheese flavor profile.
  • Customize heat level by adjusting red pepper flakes – add more for spicy kick or omit completely for milder version suitable for sensitive palates.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 258 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 224 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.2 g
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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