Name: Caprese Dip Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups cherry tomatoes (divided); 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 2 Tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store bought); 5 cloves garlic, minced; Kosher salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup fresh chopped basil; 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into chunks; 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese; ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips

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If you’re craving an appetizer that brings all the beloved flavors of summer together in a warm, gooey, irresistible dish, this Caprese Dip Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant fresh basil, and layers of creamy, melted cheeses for a cozy twist on a classic Caprese salad. Whether you’re serving it at your next gathering or simply indulging in a snack, this dip is bursting with vibrant colors and flavors that will have everyone reaching for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of various food ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with bright red cherry tomatoes, glossy and round. Surrounding it are smaller white bowls containing different items: one with white mozzarella cubes, another with creamy white sour cream that looks smooth and swirled, and a bowl of shredded pale yellow provolone cheese. There is also a wooden bowl with minced garlic, a white bowl with finely grated parmesan cheese, a small white bowl with green pesto sauce, and a small clear container with golden olive oil. Fresh green basil leaves are placed around the bowls along with whole heads of garlic, adding a fresh touch. The overall setup is well-organized and colorful, with a natural and fresh feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Caprese Dip Recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes to the creamy mozzarella cheese, these essentials make the magic happen.

2 cups cherry tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, they roast down to release their natural sweetness and create a saucy base.
1 Tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps roast the tomatoes to perfection.
2 Tablespoons basil pesto: Provides a fragrant herbaceous punch that ties the dish together beautifully.
5 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a savory depth and gentle heat to wake up the flavors.
Kosher salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
1 cup sour cream: Offers creaminess and a slight tang for a luscious texture.
½ cup fresh chopped basil: Brightens the dip with aromatic freshness.
8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into chunks: Melts beautifully to give that signature gooey texture.
8 ounces shredded provolone cheese: Adds a mild, slightly smoky flavor that complements the mozzarella.
¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkles a subtle sharpness that finishes the cheesy flavor profile perfectly.
Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips: For scooping up all that cheesy goodness.

How to Make Caprese Dip Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F and set the rack in the middle position. Place 1 cup of the whole cherry tomatoes in a 2-quart baking dish or cast iron skillet. Drizzle them with olive oil, then add the basil pesto, minced garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Toss everything gently to coat the tomatoes evenly. Pop this into the oven to roast for 15 minutes. This step softens the tomatoes and lets their natural juices mingle with the pesto and garlic.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

While the tomatoes roast, combine the sour cream with the chopped fresh basil in a mixing bowl. Next, add the chunks of mozzarella cheese, the shredded provolone, and the freshly grated parmesan. Stir these together well so the cheeses blend with the creamy sour cream base, getting ready to melt into something amazing.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Dip

Once the tomatoes finish roasting and are wonderfully fragrant, add the cheese mixture right on top of the tomatoes and toss gently to combine all those delicious flavors. Then take the remaining cup of cherry tomatoes, slice them in half, and arrange those halves on top of the cheesy mixture. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted to bubbly perfection with a golden top and bubbling edges.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Basil and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the hot dip. This final touch adds a burst of color and herbaceous aroma that’s unmistakably Caprese. Serve straight from the baking dish with crusty bread, crackers, or your favorite chips for dipping.

How to Serve Caprese Dip Recipe

In a white bowl, there is a creamy cheese dip with a soft, melted texture on the top layer. It is dotted with bright red, halved cherry tomatoes and small pieces of chopped green herbs spread evenly. Toasted golden-brown garlic bread slices are placed inside the bowl, some dipped in the cheese. A woman's hand is picking up one toasted bread slice, pulling it out with long, stretchy strings of melted cheese connecting the dip and bread. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with parts of a beige cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves are classic and add a lovely fragrance and vibrant green color. For an extra pop, try a drizzle of balsamic glaze or some red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat to contrast the creamy layers.

Side Dishes

This Caprese Dip pairs wonderfully with crusty baguette slices, crunchy crackers, or even tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing variety. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the dip in individual small ramekins as personal portions. Or try layering the dip in a clear baking dish to show off the vibrant red tomatoes and cheesy layers. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day.

Freezing

Because of the fresh basil and sour cream, freezing this dip is not recommended. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a short time to maintain its vibrant flavor and creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the dip gently in the oven at 350°F until bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent separation of the creamy cheeses. Add fresh basil right before serving again to refresh the herbaceous notes.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes for this dip?

Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes work best for their sweetness and size, grape tomatoes or small Roma tomatoes can also be delicious substitutes. Just adjust roasting time as needed.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, by swapping the cheeses for plant-based alternatives and using a vegan sour cream, you can create a vegan-friendly version that still captures the spirit of this Caprese Dip Recipe.

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time and bake later?

You can definitely assemble the dip the night before and store it in the fridge. Just add fresh basil and bake when ready to serve for the freshest results.

What’s the best type of bread to serve with this dip?

Rustic, crusty breads like a baguette or ciabatta are perfect for dipping. Their crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy dip.

Can I make this dip spicier?

Yes! Try adding red pepper flakes earlier in the recipe or serving with a spicy balsamic glaze to bring in some heat alongside the classic flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Caprese Dip Recipe enough for your next gathering or cozy night in. It’s packed with fresh summer flavors, ooey-gooey cheese, and just enough garlic and basil to make every bite unforgettable. Give it a try, and you’ll soon understand why it’s become a beloved classic in my kitchen and, soon enough, yours too!

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