Name: Easy Caprese Dip
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh mozzarella, shredded or torn; 1/2 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: balsamic glaze, for drizzling; To serve: bread, crostini, or crackers

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This Easy Caprese Dip is a warm, cheesy twist on the classic Italian salad that I love serving at parties, game nights, or anytime I want a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer. With melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil baked together until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for dipping with bread, crackers, or veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dip because it’s quick to make, full of flavor, and always disappears fast. It combines everything I love about Caprese—cheese, tomatoes, herbs—and turns it into a cozy, shareable snack. It’s ready in minutes and tastes amazing whether I serve it hot out of the oven or let it cool slightly for easier scooping.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh mozzarella (shredded or torn)
Cherry or grape tomatoes (halved)
Cream cheese (softened)
Fresh basil (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling
Bread, crostini, or crackers for serving

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
I spread the softened cream cheese across the bottom of the dish to create a creamy base.
I layer the mozzarella over the cream cheese, then scatter the halved tomatoes on top.
I drizzle the mixture with olive oil, sprinkle on garlic, salt, and pepper, and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
I remove it from the oven, top with fresh basil, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if I’m using it.
I serve it warm with toasted bread or crackers for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings as an appetizer. It takes 5–10 minutes to prep and 15–20 minutes to bake, so I usually have it ready in 25–30 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use roasted cherry tomatoes for extra flavor or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. I’ve also added shredded parmesan or used a layer of ricotta instead of cream cheese. When I want it even easier, I use store-bought pesto in place of fresh basil for a delicious shortcut.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave small portions until melty. It’s best enjoyed warm, but I’ve even spread leftovers cold on a sandwich or wrap.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. I bake it just before serving.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Fresh basil gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, I’ve used a small sprinkle of dried basil in the bake and added a little extra olive oil for freshness.

What kind of tomatoes work best?

I like cherry or grape tomatoes because they’re sweet and hold their shape, but I’ve also used chopped Roma tomatoes when that’s what I have.

Can I make this dip without cream cheese?

Yes, I’ve made it with just mozzarella and tomatoes, but the cream cheese gives it a creamy base that makes it more scoopable and rich.

What can I serve this with?

I usually go with toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or crackers. It’s also great with veggie sticks like bell peppers or cucumber rounds.

Conclusion

This Easy Caprese Dip is a simple, delicious appetizer that brings together the fresh flavors of a Caprese salad in a warm, melty dish. It’s quick to prep, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether I serve it for guests or just as a cozy snack for myself, it always disappears fast.