Description
This creamy Garlic Bread Dip combines rich cheeses, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs to create a warm, savory appetizer perfect for sharing. Roasting the garlic enhances its sweetness, blending perfectly with mozzarella, parmesan, and cottage cheese for a luscious dip that’s cozy and flavorful.
Ingredients
Cheese and Dairy
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 1/2 cups grated parmesan cheese, divided
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, divided
- 3 tbsp chopped chives, divided
Roasted Garlic
- 3 heads garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare and Roast Garlic: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Slice about 1/4 inch off the top of each garlic head to expose the tops of the cloves. Place each head on a piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle the exposed cloves evenly with olive oil, coating them well. Optionally, sprinkle a little salt over the garlic. Wrap each garlic head tightly in the foil and place on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack. Roast for 30-40 minutes until cloves are soft and golden brown.
- Mix Base Ingredients: Once roasted and cooled slightly, squeeze the softened garlic cloves from their skins into a large mixing bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, and mayo. Use a handheld mixer to combine until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup of grated parmesan, 2 tablespoons of chopped chives, 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley, onion powder, salt, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Dip: Spoon the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form a smooth layer. Top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the surface.
- Bake the Dip: Bake in the preheated 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until the dip is bubbly and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the dip with the remaining fresh chopped chives. Serve warm with crostinis or small toasted bread slices for dipping.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Roasting garlic mellows its flavor and adds a sweet, nutty aroma to the dip.
- For a lower fat version, substitute part of the mayo with Greek yogurt.
- Serve immediately after baking for best texture and warmth.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American