Name: Garlic Bread Dip
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 heads garlic, tops sliced off; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste; Minced parsley, for garnish

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All the comforting, savory goodness of garlic bread in one warm, creamy, cheesy dip. This Garlic Bread Dip combines the rich flavor of roasted garlic with melty mozzarella, tangy sour cream, and a hint of Italian herbs—perfect for dipping crostini, crackers, or slices of toasted bread. It’s easy to prepare, impressive to serve, and utterly addictive.

Garlic Bread Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the flavor of garlic bread in a dip-able, sharable format
Perfect for parties or cozy nights in
Creamy and cheesy with a golden, melty topping
Roasted garlic brings deep, sweet-savory flavor
Make-ahead friendly for easy entertaining
Customizable with your favorite cheeses or mix-ins
One bowl + one baking dish = easy cleanup
Crowd-pleasing appetizer with minimal prep
Pairs well with breadsticks, chips, veggies, or toast
Rich, indulgent, and irresistible

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 heads garlic, tops sliced off
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Minced parsley, for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a small baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
Roast the garlic: Cut the tops off the garlic heads to expose the cloves. Place them on foil, drizzle with olive oil, wrap tightly, and roast for 40–55 minutes or until tender. Let cool.
Make garlic paste: Squeeze the cooled roasted garlic into a large bowl. Use a fork to mash it into a paste.
Mix the dip: Add cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, 1 cup of the mozzarella, and all the parmesan. Beat with an electric hand mixer until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble: Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella.
Bake: Reduce oven temperature to 375°F. Bake the dip for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with minced parsley and serve hot with crostini, crackers, or bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 1 hour (includes garlic roasting time)
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Add meat: Stir in cooked crumbled sausage for a heartier dip.
Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Try different cheeses: Swap mozzarella for fontina, provolone, or cheddar.
Add herbs: Fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme can add more flavor.
Make it a spread: Cool slightly and spread on toasted baguette slices.
Add spinach or artichokes for a garlic-spinach-artichoke combo.
Low-fat version: Use light cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo.
Extra garlic: Mix in minced raw garlic for a sharper garlic bite.
Use roasted shallots alongside garlic for added sweetness.
Vegan option: Use plant-based cream cheese, mayo, and cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or in the oven at low temperature until the cheese is melted and the dip is heated through.

Make ahead: Assemble the dip, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, allowing a few extra minutes if starting from cold, or bring to room temperature first.

FAQs

Can I make this dip without roasting the garlic?

Roasting the garlic adds a rich, sweet flavor, but you can use raw garlic or garlic paste in a pinch. Use 2–3 cloves, finely minced.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can substitute plain Greek yogurt or more sour cream if you prefer a tangier, lighter base.

Can I freeze this dip?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream cheese base, which may separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.

What’s the best bread to serve with this dip?

Crostini, baguette slices, garlic toast, pita chips, or breadsticks all work great.

How can I make this dip even cheesier?

Add extra mozzarella or a handful of a second melty cheese like provolone or fontina.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, the dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Just pair it with gluten-free crackers or bread.

Can I make this dip in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of whole heads?

Yes, but it will lack the roasted sweetness. Use about 1–1½ tablespoons for a similar garlic level.

How do I know when the dip is done baking?

The cheese on top should be melted and golden brown, and the edges may start bubbling.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by 5–10 minutes, checking frequently.

Conclusion

Garlic Bread Dip is a game-changing appetizer that delivers everything you love about classic garlic bread in a gooey, scoopable form. Rich, cheesy, and packed with roasted garlic flavor, it’s perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you’re craving serious comfort. Easy to make and impossible to resist, this dip deserves a permanent spot on your appetizer menu.