This Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip is a fun twist on the classic pizza! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious toppings like ham and pineapple. Perfect for sharing!
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just mix, bake, and enjoy with some chips or bread. Trust me, it disappears fast at parties. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 🍕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base that gives the dip its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cream cheese alternative.
Shredded Mozzarella: Mozzarella adds that gooey, melty factor. If you want a different flavor, try blending it with cheddar for added sharpness. For dairy-free, look for vegan cheese options!
Pizza Sauce: Using pizza sauce gives a rich tomato flavor, but marinara works well too! In a pinch, spaghetti sauce or even salsa can add a unique twist.
Diced Ham: This gives the dip its classic Hawaiian pizza taste. If you’re vegetarian, substitute with diced mushrooms or smoked tofu for that smoky flavor.
Diced Pineapple: Fresh is best, but canned works too—just be sure to drain it well. You can also swap in peaches or mango for a fun variation.
How Do I Make My Dip Creamy and Flavorful?
The secret to a creamy and flavorful dip lies in the mixing and baking process. Follow these steps carefully for the best results:
- Ensure your cream cheese is really softened—this helps it blend smoothly with the sauce.
- Spread the cream cheese and sauce mixture evenly in the baking dish. This ensures even flavor and texture.
- Layer the ingredients strategically! Half the cheese first gives a cheesy base, while topping it last keeps that melty layer intact.
- Watch the baking time closely. You want everything to melt and brown slightly, so keep an eye on it.
Letting it cool for just a few minutes before serving allows the dip to set slightly, which helps with scooping! Enjoy your creamy, cheesy dip!
Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
- 1/2 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or green onions (optional for garnish)
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking, totaling around 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick appetizer for your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your dip goes in, it cooks evenly and gets nice and bubbly.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese and Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the pizza sauce. Use a spatula or hand mixer to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Base Layer:
Spread the cream cheese and sauce mixture evenly into an 8×8 inch baking dish. Make sure to cover the bottom well so every scoop of the dip gets that creamy goodness!
4. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your cream cheese mixture. This will help create a delicious cheesy layer beneath all the toppings.
5. Layer on the Toppings:
Next, evenly sprinkle the diced ham and pineapple pieces over the mozzarella cheese. Feel free to distribute them as generously as you’d like!
6. Finish with More Cheese:
Finally, add the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the ham and pineapple. This layer will melt to create a wonderfully cheesy topping.
7. Bake the Dip:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You want to watch the dip until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the edges are slightly browned.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the dip set a little bit making it easier to scoop. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or green onions on top for extra flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in while still warm, pairing it with tortilla chips or crackers. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Enjoy this sweet and savory Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a great texture and flavor to the dip. Just make sure to dice it into small pieces for even distribution. If you opt for canned, be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance! Assemble all the layers in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with This Dip Besides Tortilla Chips?
This dip is versatile! You can serve it with crackers, sliced baguette, or even fresh vegetable sticks like celery and bell peppers for a crunchy contrast. It’s also delicious poured over cooked pasta as a cheesy sauce!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just let the dip cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until warmed through. The texture might change slightly, but it will still taste great!