Garlic Bread Dip Recipe

If you love the irresistible aroma of roasted garlic and the comforting creaminess of melted cheese, then you are going to adore this Garlic Bread Dip. It steals all the best parts of garlic bread—the crispiness, the buttery garlic flavor, and the melty cheese—and combines them into one luscious, crowd-pleasing dip. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a cozy snack, this Garlic Bread Dip is a guaranteed winner that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Bread Dip lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the rich cream cheese that gives it body, to the roasted garlic which delivers deep, mellow flavor, and the combination of cheeses that makes it irresistibly gooey and golden.

• Garlic heads: Roasted to bring out a sweet and mellow garlic flavor, which is the heart of this dip.
• Olive oil: Helps caramelize the garlic during roasting for that perfect golden finish.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Provides a silky, creamy base that blends all flavors beautifully.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to balance the richness.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers meltiness and a mild, milky texture everyone loves.
• Grated parmesan cheese (divided): Sprinkled in and on top to add a sharp, nutty punch and beautifully browned crust.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the layers of flavor.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish): Brings a pop of color and a fresh, herby note.
• Crostini or crackers: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of this luscious dip.

How to Make Garlic Bread Dip

Step 1: Roasting the Garlic

First, preheat your oven to 400℉. Preparing the garlic properly is the key to unlocking that mellow, caramelized flavor that defines this dip. Remove the excess papers from the outside of each garlic head, then slice off about a quarter inch from the top to expose the individual cloves. Drizzle some olive oil over the exposed garlic and wrap each bulb in foil, creating a little foil bowl to hold them upright. Roast for 40-50 minutes, until the cloves are soft and lightly browned. Let them cool so you can handle the garlic without burning your fingers.

Step 2: Preparing the Baking Dish & Oven Temperature

Once the garlic is done, lower the oven temperature to 350℉. Meanwhile, get your baking dish ready—an 8×8 square or an 8-9 inch pie pan works wonderfully for this dip. This will ensure even cooking and that lovely golden crust we’re aiming for.

Step 3: Making the Dip Mixture

Squeeze the softened garlic cloves out of their skins into a large mixing bowl. Mash them with a fork until they form a smooth paste—that’s the soul of your dip right there. Add the cream cheese and sour cream, stirring until everything is fully combined. Then, fold in the shredded mozzarella and half of the parmesan cheese, along with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be creamy, cheesy, and bursting with roasted garlic flavor.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Spread the luscious dip mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top—the cheesy topping will melt and brown beautifully in the oven. Bake for about 25-28 minutes until the center is hot and bubbling, and the top turns a subtle golden brown. Let the dip rest for 5 minutes after taking it out to settle into its perfect, scoopable texture.

How to Serve Garlic Bread Dip

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley isn’t just for looks here—it adds a bright, herbal touch that cuts through the richness of the dip perfectly. A sprinkle of parsley makes this Garlic Bread Dip pop visually and flavor-wise, inviting everyone to dig right in.

Side Dishes

This dip pairs wonderfully with crostini or crunchy crackers, both of which offer the perfect vessel to scoop up all that creamy goodness. If you want to add more variety, try serving it alongside crisp veggie sticks like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for a lighter contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to wow your guests? Serve the dip in a hollowed-out sourdough loaf or a rustic bread bowl for a dramatic centerpiece. You can also portion the dip into individual ramekins for a charming and shareable appetizer experience. No matter how you present it, this Garlic Bread Dip always steals the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this dip in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just beware that the texture might change slightly upon thawing, so it’s best for cooking and enjoying fresh when possible.

Reheating

To reheat, place the dip in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350℉ until hot and bubbling again, usually about 15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals to heat evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I make Garlic Bread Dip without sour cream?

Absolutely! If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or extra cream cheese, but sour cream gives that perfect tang and creaminess that balances the richness of the cheeses.

How do I roast garlic without an oven?

If you don’t have access to an oven, you can roast garlic on the stovetop by simmering the garlic heads wrapped in foil in a covered pan with a little water on low heat for about 40 minutes, or until soft.

Is this dip spicy or mild?

This Garlic Bread Dip is wonderfully mild, focusing on the sweet, mellow flavor of roasted garlic with creamy cheeses and a hint of pepper—not spicy at all, making it enjoyable for all taste buds.

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of roasting fresh garlic?

Roasting fresh garlic is essential here because it mellows and sweetens the garlic’s flavor, which pre-minced garlic can’t replicate. Using pre-minced would result in a sharper, more pungent taste that changes the dip’s character.

What’s the best bread to use for dipping?

Crostini is a classic choice for a reason—they’re crispy, sturdy, and perfectly sized. You can also use toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers to scoop up the dip.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a dip that tastes like your favorite garlic bread but with the ease of scooping up every cheesy, garlicky bite. This Garlic Bread Dip is a versatile crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for casual get-togethers or cozy nights in. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortlessly delicious it is to treat yourself and your loved ones with this little slice of garlicky heaven.

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