Description
This Three Cheese Tomato Bruschetta Dip is a warm, savory appetizer featuring a creamy blend of cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan topped with seasoned cherry tomatoes. Baked to perfection, it offers gooey melted cheese with slightly blistered tomatoes, garnished with fresh basil and optional balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties, game days, or holiday gatherings, it pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices or crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
Tomato Mixture
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or basil
For Garnish and Serving
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Toasted baguette slices or crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, gently toss the halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Set this mixture aside to marinate slightly.
- Mix the cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and dried Italian seasoning or basil. Stir well until you achieve a smooth and evenly blended cheese mixture.
- Assemble the dip: Spread the cheese mixture evenly into a small oven-safe dish or cast-iron skillet. Spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the top of the cheese layer, ensuring good coverage.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the tomatoes have blistered slightly, releasing their juice and enhancing the flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and, if desired, a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness and tang. Serve warm alongside toasted baguette slices, crostini, or your favorite crackers for dipping.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, roast the tomatoes separately before adding them to the cheese layer.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a spicy kick.
- This dip is an excellent choice for parties, game days, or holiday appetizers.
- Use a cast-iron skillet or an oven-safe dish to make baking and serving easier.
