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Three-Cheese Tomato Bruschetta Dip

A quick, cheesy appetizer perfect for parties, game day, or busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Party Food, Snack
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dip
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved or 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar optional, but lovely
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced reserve a little for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped optional
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a pinch of oregano
  • 1 baguette sliced and toasted or your favorite crackers/veggies for dipping

Method
 

Prep the Tomatoes
  1. Halve fresh cherry tomatoes or drain canned tomatoes well. Toss tomatoes with a pinch of salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar. Let sit while preparing the rest.
Sauté Garlic
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
Cook the Tomatoes
  1. Add tomatoes to the skillet with garlic. Stir in red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning. Cook for 3-5 minutes until tomatoes start to soften and release juices. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix the Cheeses
  1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in 3/4 of the mozzarella and 1/2 of the Parmesan. Fold in basil and parsley, reserving some basil for garnish.
Combine and Assemble
  1. Add cooked tomatoes and any pan juices to cheese mixture and gently fold to combine. Transfer to a lightly oiled 1-quart baking dish. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Bake
  1. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbles form and the top is golden. For a browner top, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Remove from the oven, let cool for 3-5 minutes, then sprinkle reserved fresh basil on top. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or sliced vegetables.

Notes

This dip can be made ahead. Mix tomato-cheese mixture and refrigerate up to 24 hours. For lighter versions, swap half the cream cheese for ricotta.