Description
This Three-Cheese Tomato Bruschetta Dip is a warm, savory appetizer featuring a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese topped with a fresh tomato and basil mixture. Baked until bubbly and served with crispy toasted baguette slices, it’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tomato Topping
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crostini
- 1 loaf French baguette, sliced
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the dip and toasting the crostini.
- Mix Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and softened cream cheese. Stir thoroughly until smooth and well-blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread Cheese Mixture: Transfer the cheese mixture into a 9×9 inch baking dish, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula.
- Prepare Tomato Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix diced cherry tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors.
- Add Tomato Topping: Evenly layer the tomato and basil mixture over the cheese mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake Dip: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Toast Crostini: While the dip bakes, arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each slice with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove both the dip and crostini from the oven. Serve the warm, cheesy tomato bruschetta dip alongside the toasted crostini for dipping and enjoy.
Notes
- Use a baking dish about 9×9 inches to ensure even baking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
- The dip can be made ahead and refrigerated; bake fresh before serving.
- Leftover dip can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.