There’s nothing quite like the irresistible combination of warm, cheesy goodness and the rich, buttery flavor of garlic bread. This Baked Garlic Bread Dip is the perfect appetizer for any gathering, delivering a gooey, garlicky delight that pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices or crispy breadsticks.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with ways to elevate a classic garlic bread spread. Instead of just slathering it on slices of bread, I turned it into a creamy, scoopable dip—and it was an instant hit! Whether you’re hosting a game night, a holiday party, or just craving something indulgent, this dip is a must-try.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Get ready to meet your new favorite party dip! This Baked Garlic Bread Dip is not just mouthwatering—it’s a total crowd-pleaser.

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a hot, cheesy dip ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for when you need a last-minute appetizer!

The flavor is pure garlic bread bliss. A blend of roasted garlic, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a rich, buttery, and slightly tangy dip that tastes like the best garlic bread you’ve ever had—only creamier.

It’s also super versatile. Serve it with toasted bread, crackers, veggies, or even use it as a spread for sandwiches. You can even add your favorite mix-ins like bacon or fresh herbs for a custom twist.

And let’s not forget—it’s great for sharing. Whether you’re serving this at a holiday dinner or a casual get-together, you’ll love watching guests gather around, eagerly dipping bite after bite.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Baked Garlic Bread Dip lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the ultimate cheesy, garlicky experience.

Let’s start with the garlic—the star of the show. Roasting fresh garlic enhances its natural sweetness and eliminates any harsh bite, giving the dip a mellow, buttery flavor. If you're short on time, you can sauté minced garlic instead, but roasted garlic is worth the extra step!

Next up, cream cheese. This gives the dip its ultra-creamy base and a slight tang that balances the richness. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Let it soften at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth consistency.

For that irresistible cheesy pull, mozzarella cheese is a must. It melts beautifully, creating a gooey, stretchy texture that makes every bite pure comfort food. Combine it with Parmesan cheese for an extra depth of flavor and a slightly salty, nutty bite.

A touch of butter adds richness and mimics the classic taste of garlic bread. Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in the dip. If you’re a garlic butter lover, you can even brown the butter slightly for a deeper, toasty flavor.

To bring it all together, a pinch of Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes add just the right amount of warmth and complexity. Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your personal taste.

You won’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe—just a mixing bowl, a baking dish, and an oven. A hand mixer can help achieve an extra smooth texture, but a simple spatula works just fine!

How To Make This Baked Garlic Bread Dip

Making this dip is as simple as mixing, baking, and enjoying. Here’s exactly how to do it.

Start by roasting the garlic. Slice the top off a whole garlic bulb, drizzle it with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 30 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden. Once cooled, squeeze the roasted garlic into a bowl and mash it into a paste. This step enhances the dip’s flavor, making it rich and slightly sweet.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, butter, and mashed roasted garlic. Stir until smooth and creamy, making sure the garlic is evenly distributed. This ensures that every bite is packed with garlicky goodness.

Next, fold in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese along with a pinch of Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. The cheeses will create that melty, irresistible texture, while the seasonings add a touch of warmth and depth. If you love extra-cheesy dips, sprinkle some additional mozzarella on top before baking.

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and smooth it out evenly. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and golden brown on top. The edges should be slightly crisp, mimicking the toasted goodness of garlic bread.

Once out of the oven, let the dip cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it thicken slightly, making it easier to scoop. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a beautiful finishing touch.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely!), this Baked Garlic Bread Dip stores beautifully.

For short-term storage, transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

If you want to freeze it, assemble the dip in a freezer-safe dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

For the best texture, avoid freezing leftovers after the dip has already been baked, as the cheese may become grainy upon reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it based on your preferences!

For a meaty twist, mix in some crispy bacon bits or crumbled sausage. The added saltiness pairs beautifully with the cheesy, garlicky base.

Want to make it extra herby? Stir in some chopped fresh basil, parsley, or chives. These herbs add freshness and brighten up the richness of the dip.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce. A touch of cayenne pepper also works well for a bolder heat.

For a lighter version, swap out half the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. This keeps the dip creamy while adding a subtle tang and extra protein.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using different cheeses like Gruyère or sharp cheddar for a unique twist on flavor. Just make sure they melt well to maintain that gooey consistency!

No matter how you customize it, this Baked Garlic Bread Dip is bound to be a hit. Give it a try at your next gathering, and watch it disappear within minutes!