Ultimate Cheesy Supreme Pizza Dip Recipe Easy Cast Iron Skillet Appetizer

Let me tell you, the smell of bubbling cheese, zesty tomato sauce, and savory pepperoni sizzling in a cast iron skillet is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. The first time I made this Ultimate Cheesy Supreme Pizza Dip, I was instantly hooked—the kind of moment where you pause, take a deep breath, and just smile because you know you’re onto something truly special. It happened on a lazy weekend when friends popped by unexpectedly, and I needed a quick snack that would wow without stress.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to make the best pizza-inspired dishes, but this dip? It’s my own twist, perfected after countless trials (in the name of research, of course). Honestly, my family couldn’t stop sneaking spoonfuls off the skillet while it cooled, and I can’t really blame them. This dip feels like a warm hug on a plate—dangerously easy and packed with pure, nostalgic comfort.

You know what’s great? This recipe is perfect for potlucks, game nights, or just brightening up your Pinterest cookie board with something savory and shareable. It’s become a staple for family gatherings and gifting in my house, and I promise, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honestly, what’s not to love about the Ultimate Cheesy Supreme Pizza Dip? It’s got all the flavors you crave in a pizza but without the fuss of rolling dough or waiting forever for delivery. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings or busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed; you likely already have everything in your kitchen.
• Perfect for Parties: Great for game days, potlucks, or cozy movie nights.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Always gets rave reviews from kids and adults alike, thanks to that melty, cheesy goodness.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and hearty toppings is next-level comfort food.

This isn’t just another pizza dip. The secret is slow-cooking it in a cast iron skillet, which locks in flavor and creates that perfect crispy edge. Plus, layering the ingredients the right way ensures every bite is packed with balanced flavor and texture. It’s comfort food reimagined—faster, better, and with all the soul-soothing satisfaction you want from a supreme pizza.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most are pantry staples, and you can tweak a few to fit your preference or dietary needs.

• 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade; I like Rao’s for its rich flavor)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (adds creaminess and tang)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk for best melt)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for a flavor punch)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a salty kick)
• 1/2 cup cooked pepperoni slices, chopped (or turkey pepperoni for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper (adds crunch and freshness)
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives (drained, for a briny balance)
• 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional, for a mild bite)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (blend of oregano, basil, thyme)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for subtle depth)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Crackers, breadsticks, or sliced baguette (for dipping)

If you want to make this dairy-free, swap the cream cheese with a vegan alternative and choose dairy-free shredded cheeses. For a gluten-free option, just be sure your dippers are safe for your diet.

Equipment Needed

• 10-inch cast iron skillet: This is key for even heat distribution and that irresistible crispy edge. If you don’t have cast iron, a small oven-safe baking dish works too.
• Mixing bowls: For combining your cheeses and toppings.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precision and consistent results.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For mixing and spreading the dip layers evenly.
• Oven mitts: Cast iron gets hot, so handle with care!

I’ve tried this in a non-stick skillet before, but it just doesn’t get that perfect crust. Also, I recommend seasoning your cast iron regularly to keep it non-stick and rust-free—it makes cooking and cleaning much easier.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the dip bakes evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
2. In a medium bowl, soften the cream cheese. Use a spatula or hand mixer to get it creamy and smooth—no lumps! This should take about 2 minutes.
3. Add the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined. You’re aiming for a smooth, vibrant red base that’s bursting with flavor.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly in the bottom of your cast iron skillet. This layer acts like a rich pizza crust base and keeps the dip creamy.
5. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the cream cheese layer. This cheesy layer melts into the base, creating gooey pockets of delight.
6. Top the cheese with half of the pepperoni, bell peppers, olives, and red onion. Distribute evenly for balanced bites.
7. Add the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the toppings. This seals in the flavors and gets golden and bubbly in the oven.
8. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This adds a nice salty crust as it bakes.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and the edges just starting to brown. If it’s browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
10. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. This resting time thickens the dip slightly and makes it easier to scoop.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. The bright herb cuts through the richness beautifully.
12. Serve warm with your favorite dippers. I love crusty bread, crunchy crackers, or even veggie sticks.

Pro tip: If your cream cheese feels too firm, microwave it for 10-15 seconds before mixing—it’ll blend better and create a silky dip base.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Cooking this dip in a cast iron skillet is a game changer. The heat retention creates a golden, crispy cheese crust that’s impossible to resist. But let’s be honest, sometimes cheese can get rubbery or separate if overheated.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Don’t rush the melting: Bake at a moderate temperature (375°F/190°C) rather than super hot. This helps cheese melt evenly without drying out.
• Layer it right: Spreading cream cheese first forms a creamy base that keeps the dip moist.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect melt quality.
• Let it rest: Give the dip a few minutes after baking to thicken up—this also enhances the flavor melding.
• Multitask smart: While the dip bakes, prep your dippers or set the table to save time.

One time, I left the dip in the oven a little too long and ended up with crispy burnt edges (not my finest moment!). Now, I keep a close eye during the last 5 minutes to get that perfect golden top without overcooking.

Variations & Adaptations

This pizza dip is wonderfully flexible. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Meat lovers: Add cooked sausage, bacon bits, or ground beef for extra protein and flavor.
• Vegetarian: Skip the pepperoni and add mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes instead.
• Spicy twist: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Gluten-free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks.
• Dairy-free: Use vegan cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives to keep it friendly for dairy-sensitive guests.

I once tried swapping the bell peppers for roasted red peppers and it added a smoky sweetness that surprised everyone. Feel free to experiment with your favorite pizza toppings!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Ultimate Cheesy Supreme Pizza Dip warm straight from the skillet, ideally with a platter of crunchy dippers like baguette slices, pita chips, or even crisp veggies. It pairs beautifully with a cold beer or a sparkling soda to balance the richness.

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare), cover the skillet tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crispy edges intact.

Flavors actually deepen after a day, so sometimes I make it ahead for gatherings. Just bring it back to life in the oven before serving, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving of this dip (based on 8 servings) roughly contains:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280
Protein	14g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	3g

The cream cheese and cheeses provide a good source of protein and calcium, which are great for bone health. Plus, the tomato sauce adds lycopene, an antioxidant linked to various health benefits. Just be mindful of the sodium content if you’re watching your salt intake.

This recipe can easily fit into low-carb or gluten-free diets by adjusting your choice of dippers. I personally appreciate how it satisfies those comfort food cravings without complicated ingredients.

Conclusion

In short, this Ultimate Cheesy Supreme Pizza Dip is a must-try for anyone who loves pizza but wants a quick, crowd-pleasing snack without the mess of dough. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with all the flavors of a supreme pizza, baked to perfection in a cast iron skillet.

Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spice level—this recipe is forgiving and always delicious. I love how it brings people together, whether it’s game night or a casual hangout.

Give it a go, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out! Drop your comments, share your twists, or send this to that friend who’s always hunting for easy party recipes. You’re going to love having this one in your recipe arsenal.

FAQs About Ultimate Cheesy Supreme Pizza Dip

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I use if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

A small oven-safe baking dish or pie plate works fine, but you won’t get the same crispy edges that cast iron provides.

Is this dip freezer-friendly?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheeses. Adjust baking time and watch carefully to avoid drying out.

What are good dippers for this pizza dip?

Crackers, toasted baguette slices, breadsticks, pretzels, or raw veggies like bell pepper strips and cucumber all work great.

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