If you’re a fan of classic Caprese salad, you’re going to fall in love with this warm, cheesy take on the Italian favorite—Caprese Dip. This baked appetizer combines cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and three kinds of cheese into a melty masterpiece that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you’re entertaining in the summer sun or cozying up in the winter, this dip brings vibrant flavor and gooey comfort to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Caprese Dip
This dish takes everything you love about a traditional Caprese—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil—and transforms it into a warm, crave-worthy dip. Sour cream adds tang, provolone brings that perfect stretch, and Parmesan gives a salty kick. When baked together with juicy roasted tomatoes and fresh herbs, the result is a creamy, herby dip that’s impossible to resist.
- Warm, cheesy, and comforting: Perfect for dipping with crusty bread or crackers.
- Fresh and vibrant: Thanks to basil, tomatoes, and garlic.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep the components in advance, then bake before serving.
- Crowd-pleasing: Ideal for potlucks, game day, holidays, or anytime you need a foolproof appetizer.
Ingredients
To make a 10-serving batch of this Caprese Dip, gather:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh chopped basil
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into chunks
- 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and move the oven rack to the middle position. Lightly oil or use a 2-quart baking dish or cast iron skillet for roasting and baking.
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes
Add 1 cup of whole cherry tomatoes to the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and top with pesto, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently to coat, then roast for 15 minutes.
The tomatoes should blister and soften slightly—this step builds a robust flavor base for your dip.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Base
While the tomatoes roast, stir together the sour cream and chopped basil in a mixing bowl. Add the fresh mozzarella, shredded provolone, and grated Parmesan, stirring until well combined.
This mixture becomes your creamy, melty foundation—tangy, herby, and indulgent.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Once the tomatoes are roasted, remove the dish from the oven. Pour in the cheese mixture and fold everything gently to combine with the tomatoes.
Halve the remaining 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and scatter them over the top. This adds a pop of color and texture to the final dish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden on top.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil
Top the warm dip with fresh basil just before serving. It adds freshness and contrast to the rich, cheesy interior.
Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for scooping.
Tips for the Best Caprese Dip
- Use high-quality cheese: Fresh mozzarella and Parmesan really shine here.
- Roast the tomatoes well: This enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
- Keep basil fresh: Add it just before serving to maintain its flavor and color.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili to the cheese mixture.
- Use a skillet for rustic presentation: A cast iron pan retains heat and looks great on the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make ahead: Roast the tomatoes and mix the cheese base up to 1 day ahead. Refrigerate separately, then combine and bake before serving.
- Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave in short bursts until bubbly.
Variations
- Add a protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for a heartier version.
- Try sun-dried tomatoes: For a more intense tomato flavor.
- Swap cheeses: Goat cheese or fontina also work beautifully in place of provolone.
- Low-carb option: Serve with cucumber slices, endive, or bell pepper strips instead of bread.
What to Serve with Caprese Dip
This dip pairs perfectly with:
- Sliced baguette, toasted
- Butter crackers or pita chips
- Garlic bread sticks
- Grilled flatbread or naan
- Crunchy vegetables for a lighter option
It’s an ideal addition to an appetizer spread, alongside charcuterie, deviled eggs, or marinated olives.
Final Thoughts
This Caprese Dip is everything you want in an appetizer—creamy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and easy to throw together. It’s a modern twist on a classic flavor combination, taking the beloved Caprese salad and transforming it into the ultimate crowd-pleasing comfort dish.
Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or a cozy winter gathering, this dip brings the perfect balance of fresh and indulgent to the table. Just be prepared for it to disappear fast!
The Goods
Caprese Dip
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Recipes
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto homemade or store-bought
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh chopped basil
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cut into chunks
- 8 ounces shredded provolone cheese
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread crackers, or tortilla chips for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and move the oven rack to the middle position. Lightly oil or use a 2-quart baking dish or cast iron skillet for roasting and baking.
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes
- Add 1 cup of whole cherry tomatoes to the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and top with pesto, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently to coat, then roast for 15 minutes.
- The tomatoes should blister and soften slightly—this step builds a robust flavor base for your dip.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Base
- While the tomatoes roast, stir together the sour cream and chopped basil in a mixing bowl. Add the fresh mozzarella, shredded provolone, and grated Parmesan, stirring until well combined.
- This mixture becomes your creamy, melty foundation—tangy, herby, and indulgent.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
- Once the tomatoes are roasted, remove the dish from the oven. Pour in the cheese mixture and fold everything gently to combine with the tomatoes.
- Halve the remaining 1 cup of cherry tomatoes and scatter them over the top. This adds a pop of color and texture to the final dish.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly golden on top.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil
- Top the warm dip with fresh basil just before serving. It adds freshness and contrast to the rich, cheesy interior.
- Serve warm with crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for scooping.
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