Hot Honey Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Dip

A warm, cheesy aroma fills the air as you pull a bubbling dish of Hot Honey Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza Dip from the oven, its vibrant colors inviting everyone to gather around. This indulgent dip takes just about 30 minutes to prepare and bake, making it a quick and satisfying appetizer for game nights or casual get-togethers. The combination of creamy cheeses, savory sausage, and the sweet heat of hot honey creates a flavor explosion that you won’t forget.

This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy gathering with friends or family for a fun evening. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a delicious snack, this dip delivers on all fronts. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake and serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The blend of cream cheese and sour cream creates an incredibly creamy texture.
• The dip is topped with crispy pepperoni, adding a delightful crunch.
• It’s quick to make, ready in about 30 minutes.
• The drizzle of hot honey gives it a unique sweet and spicy kick.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your mouthwatering dip and crostini.

For the Dip

• ½ cup sausage meat, honey garlic, mild or hot Italian, or 2 sausages with casing removed
• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature (1 brick, 250 grams)
• ½ cup sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup pizza sauce, or marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
• 1 cup mini pepperoni, or regular size cut into quarters
• 4 leaves fresh basil, sliced
• 4 tbsp parmesan cheese, grated
• Hot honey

For the Garlic Bread Crostini

• 1 baguette, cut into ½ inch thick slices, cut diagonally on an angle
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Hot honey can be substituted with regular honey for less heat.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use ground turkey instead of sausage for a leaner option.
• Swap cream cheese for ricotta for a lighter consistency.
• Opt for low-fat sour cream for a healthier dip.
• Use gluten-free baguette for a gluten-free version.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious dip.

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish

Preheat oven to 375℉. Grease an oven safe baking dish or skillet with cooking spray. If making the garlic bread crostini, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil that has been sprayed with cooking spray.

Prepare the Crostini

In a small bowl, combine the melted 3 tablespoons butter and minced 1 clove garlic. Brush both sides of the slices of 1 baguette with the garlic butter. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Set aside.

Cook the Sausage

In a small frying pan, cook the ½ cup sausage meat. Crumble the meat into small pieces while it cooks until just starting to get crispy. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool.

Mix Cream Cheese Base

In a small bowl, combine the 8 ounces cream cheese, ½ cup sour cream, 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Layer the Dip

Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Then, evenly spread the 1 cup pizza sauce on top of the cream cheese layer (do not mix them together, just layer the sauce on top of the cheese layer).

Add Cheese and Sausage

Sprinkle the shredded 1 cup mozzarella on top. Scatter the crumbles of cooked sausage over top of the cheese, followed by scattering the 1 cup mini pepperoni.

Bake the Dip

Cover the baking dish with foil and place in the oven. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until the dip starts to bubble. Remove the foil and bake for another 1-2 minutes until the pepperoni is crispy.

Bake the Crostini

Place the baking sheet with crostini in the preheated oven 5 minutes after putting the dip in the oven. Bake the crostini for 4-5 minutes or until slightly toasted and golden brown, flipping each piece halfway through baking.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the dip and crostini from the oven. Optional: garnish the dip with thinly sliced 4 leaves fresh basil and grated 4 tbsp parmesan cheese. Drizzle hot honey over the dip, serve warm with the warm garlic bread crostini to dip, and enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, the dip may separate after thawing.
Reheat: microwave until warm, about 2-3 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Drain sausage well to avoid greasy dip.
• Adjust hot honey drizzle based on your heat preference.
• Serve immediately for the best creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh veggie sticks for a colorful platter.
• Serve alongside a selection of crackers for variety.
• Perfect for game day or casual gatherings.