When I need something hot, cozy, and guaranteed to disappear fast from the snack table, this is the kind of recipe I reach for. It leans on classic pizza-shop flavors everyone recognizes, but turns them into a warm, scoopable baked appetizer that takes almost no effort, which is exactly why it earns a regular spot at busy holiday gatherings and game-day spreads.
Serve this with low carb crackers, cucumber rounds, celery sticks, bell pepper strips, or toasted pita chips if you're not keeping it low carb. It also fits right in on a party tray with olives, marinated veggies, and a simple salad, and it pairs especially well with sparkling water, light beer, or a glass of red wine.
Low Carb 3-Ingredient Pepperoni Pizza Dip
Servings: 6
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a small baking dish or pie plate.
2. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the cream cheese, then top with the sliced pepperoni in a single layer.
4. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden and the pepperoni edges are curled and crisp.
5. Let the dip cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite dippers.
Variations & Tips
Add a little sauce: If you don't mind going beyond three ingredients, a thin layer of low sugar pizza sauce under the mozzarella gives it an even more classic pizza flavor. Keep it light so the dip stays thick and creamy.
Make it crispier: For extra crispy pepperoni, place the slices on top so they don't overlap much. If your oven runs cool, you can broil the dip for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
Prep ahead: Assemble the dip a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This is one of my favorite tricks for holiday cooking when counter space and oven timing get a little hectic.
Change the cheese: Part-skim mozzarella works well, but you can swap in an Italian cheese blend for a slightly sharper flavor. Just keep mozzarella in the mix so you still get that stretchy melted top.
Keep it warm: If you're serving this at a party, use a small oven-safe dish and return it to the oven for a few minutes if it starts to firm up. It's best while hot and melty.
