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Three-Cheese Tomato Bruschetta Dip

This gooey, bright, and totally comforting appetizer brings together melty cheeses, fresh tomatoes, and basil for a party-ready dip.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature Bring to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella About 4 oz.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Freshly grated if possible.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Adds a sweet brightness.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced Plus extra for garnish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for a little kick.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Serving
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered Or 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes, drained.
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped Optional, packed in oil, drained.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish or small ovenproof skillet.
  2. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in half the mozzarella and half the Parmesan until combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. Mix in the chopped basil and sun-dried tomatoes (if using).
  4. Spread the cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  5. Evenly scatter the fresh diced tomatoes on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan across the tomatoes. Finish with red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Baking
  1. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and just starting to brown at the edges.
  2. If you want a golden, blistered top, place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.
Serving
  1. Remove from the oven and let rest for 3–5 minutes. Garnish with extra fresh basil and a drizzle of good olive oil. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices, crostini, or crunchy veggies.

Notes

If you’d rather keep things ultra-quick, a no-bake version can be made by warming the cheese mixture over low heat until melted, then folding in tomatoes.