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Easy Caprese Dip

This caprese dip transforms fresh tomatoes, basil, and three types of cheese into a bubbling, gooey appetizer that's ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes divided, 1 cup whole and 1 cup halved
  • 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
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 8 ounces low-moisture mozzarella cheese cut into chunks
  • 8 ounces provolone cheese shredded
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • Crusty bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for serving

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • 8x8-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F and adjust the oven rack to the middle position.
  2. Add 1 cup of whole cherry tomatoes to the bottom of a 2-quart baking dish or cast iron skillet. Drizzle with olive oil and top with pesto, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss to coat the tomatoes and bake for 15 minutes.
  3. While tomatoes are roasting, stir together the sour cream and chopped basil in a large bowl. Add the fresh mozzarella chunks, shredded provolone, and grated parmesan, mixing until well combined.
  4. When the tomatoes are done, remove from oven and add the cheese mixture to the roasted tomatoes. Toss to combine everything together.
  5. Cut the remaining 1 cup of tomatoes in half and arrange them cut-side up on top of the cheese mixture.
  6. Bake for another 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, the top is slightly golden, and the edges are bubbling.
  7. Top with fresh basil just before serving. Serve immediately with your favorite bread, chips, or crackers.

Notes

Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent excess water. Add fresh basil topping just before serving, not sooner, to maintain bright color and fresh flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in oven at 400°F until bubbling.