Cheesy Bruschetta Dip is a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer that brings together creamy, melted cheeses and a fresh, zesty tomato bruschetta topping. It’s warm, savory, and bright all at once—perfect for dipping toasted baguette slices or crackers. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want to treat yourself, this easy dip is a guaranteed hit.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hot & Cheesy – Melted mozzarella and Parmesan create the perfect creamy base.
Fresh Topping – Juicy tomatoes, basil, and garlic brighten up every bite.
Easy to Make – Just mix, bake, and top!
Great for Sharing – Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, and holiday parties.
Versatile – Serve with bread, crackers, veggies, or even over pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bruschetta Topping:
- 2 cups diced Roma tomatoes (seeds removed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Toasted baguette slices
- Crackers
- Pita chips
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon or spatula
- 8×8-inch baking dish or small cast iron skillet
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven or toaster oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Bruschetta Topping
- In a medium bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and let marinate while you prepare and bake the cheese base.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Base
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Dip
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 4: Top and Serve
- Spoon the fresh bruschetta mixture over the hot cheese dip.
- Garnish with extra basil if desired.
- Serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Bruschetta Dip
Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes – Roma or grape tomatoes work best.
Drain Tomatoes – Removing seeds and excess juice keeps the topping fresh, not watery.
Make It Ahead – Prep the cheese layer in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Switch Up the Cheese – Add fontina or provolone for extra richness.
Toast the Bread – Lightly brush slices with olive oil and toast until crisp for the perfect dipper.
Serving Suggestions
Party Appetizer – Set it on a snack table with dips and finger foods.
Side Dish – Serve alongside grilled meats or Italian mains.
Brunch Board – Add to a brunch spread with eggs, fruit, and breads.
Over Pasta – Toss leftovers with warm pasta for a creamy tomato-basil sauce.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Store bruschetta topping separately for best texture.
Reheating:
- Oven: Warm the cheese dip at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings in 30-second bursts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I serve this dip cold?
Yes! You can skip baking and serve the cheese base chilled for a refreshing twist.
2. What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Use 1 tsp dried basil or Italian seasoning in the bruschetta topping.
3. Is this vegetarian?
Yes—just be sure your Parmesan is labeled vegetarian if needed.
4. Can I freeze this dip?
Freezing is not recommended as cream cheese and fresh tomatoes can change texture when thawed.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Bruschetta Dip is the perfect balance of creamy and fresh, savory and bright. It’s a stunning and delicious appetizer that’s incredibly easy to make—and even easier to enjoy. Whether it’s game day or a cozy gathering with friends, this dip brings the flavor and the fun.
Give it a try and don’t forget to snap a photo—it’s as pretty as it is tasty!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – approx. ¼ cup):
Calories: 190 | Protein: 6g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fat: 17g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 290mg

Cheesy Bruschetta Dip
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Cheesy Bruschetta Dip is a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer that brings together creamy, melted cheeses and a fresh, zesty tomato bruschetta topping. It’s warm, savory, and bright all at once—perfect for dipping toasted baguette slices or crackers. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want to treat yourself, this easy dip is a guaranteed hit.
Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Layer:
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
½ cup sour cream
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
½ tsp Italian seasoning
-
1 clove garlic, minced
-
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bruschetta Topping:
-
2 cups diced Roma tomatoes (seeds removed)
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
-
Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
-
Toasted baguette slices
-
Crackers
-
Pita chips
-
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Bruschetta Topping
-
In a medium bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and basil.
-
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Cover and let marinate while you prepare and bake the cheese base.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Base
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
-
Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
-
Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Dip
-
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
-
Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 4: Top and Serve
-
Spoon the fresh bruschetta mixture over the hot cheese dip.
-
Garnish with extra basil if desired.
-
Serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers.
Notes
Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes – Roma or grape tomatoes work best.
Drain Tomatoes – Removing seeds and excess juice keeps the topping fresh, not watery.
Make It Ahead – Prep the cheese layer in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Switch Up the Cheese – Add fontina or provolone for extra richness.
Toast the Bread – Lightly brush slices with olive oil and toast until crisp for the perfect dipper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American