Baked Ricotta Dip

This warm, creamy baked ricotta dip has become my go-to appetizer for everything from impromptu gatherings to elegant dinner parties. The combination of three cheeses melted together with fresh herbs and bursting cherry tomatoes creates an irresistible dish that never fails to impress.

I first created this dip when unexpected guests were on their way over and I needed something elegant but easy. Using what I had in my refrigerator, this creamy concoction was born and has since become the most requested appetizer whenever friends gather at my home.

Ingredients

• Whole milk ricotta: Gives this dip its luxurious creamy base. Look for ricotta that feels dense rather than watery for best results.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty depth and savory punch. Freshly grated from a block offers superior flavor.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens all the flavors with subtle acidity. Always use fresh rather than bottled.
• Minced garlic: Provides essential aromatic flavor. Use fresh cloves for the most vibrant taste.
• Italian seasoning: Creates complexity with minimal effort. A quality blend with visible herb pieces works best.
• Cherry tomatoes: Bring pops of color and bursts of sweet acidity. Choose ones that are firm yet ripe.
• Shredded mozzarella: Forms that irresistible golden brown crust. Low moisture mozzarella melts beautifully.
• Fresh herbs: Add the perfect finishing touch. Choose whatever looks freshest at the market.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F ensuring it reaches full temperature before baking. While waiting, grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent any sticking which makes serving and cleanup much easier. A 6.5-inch square dish creates the perfect depth for this dip.

Create The Cheese Mixture:

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, minced garlic, Italian seasonings, salt and pepper. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can make the texture too loose, so use a light hand and stop once everything is incorporated.

Add The Tomatoes:

Quarter your cherry tomatoes and gently fold them into the cheese mixture. The goal is to distribute them evenly throughout while keeping them intact so they burst with juicy flavor when baked. Their natural sweetness perfectly balances the savory cheese.

Assemble For Baking:

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to the edges. The proper distribution ensures even cooking and makes for a more attractive presentation when serving directly from the dish.

Create The Golden Top:

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire surface. This creates that gorgeous golden brown, slightly crispy top that people love to dip into. Make sure to cover the entire surface for the most appealing presentation.

Bake To Bubbly Perfection:

Place in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You will know it is done when the edges are golden brown and the center is bubbling gently. The tomatoes will have softened and released their juices into the dip.

Garnish Before Serving:

Sprinkle fresh herbs across the top just before serving. This adds vibrant color, fresh flavor, and makes the presentation restaurant-worthy. Different herbs like basil, parsley, or chives each bring their own character to the dish.

The secret to this recipe is using room temperature ricotta. I discovered this accidentally when I forgot to return the cheese to the refrigerator after grocery shopping. The warmer ricotta blended much more smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a creamier final texture that was noticeably superior to my previous attempts.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dip deserves the perfect companions for scooping and enjoying. Toasted baguette slices make excellent vehicles for the creamy cheese mixture, especially when lightly rubbed with garlic before toasting. For a more casual approach, sturdy crackers like water crackers or wheat thins provide satisfying crunch against the soft, warm dip.

For health-conscious guests, vegetable dippers create a wonderful contrast. Bell pepper strips, cucumber rounds, endive leaves, and cherry tomatoes all work beautifully. The cool crispness of fresh vegetables plays wonderfully against the warm, rich dip. I particularly love how colorful a vegetable platter looks alongside the golden baked cheese.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The texture will firm up considerably when chilled, making it perfect for spreading on morning toast or tucking into a sandwich for an unexpected flavor boost.

To return the dip to its original glory, reheat it in a 350°F oven. Before reheating, stir in a tablespoon of milk or cream to restore creaminess, then cover with foil to prevent over-browning. Heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated to your liking.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes personalization to suit your taste preferences or what you have available. For a Mediterranean twist, add chopped olives, roasted red peppers, and a sprinkle of oregano. Caramelized onions add wonderful sweetness, while chopped artichoke hearts bring texture and tanginess.

For a more substantial appetizer, stir in cooked crumbled sausage or crispy pancetta before baking. Vegetarians might enjoy the addition of sautéed mushrooms or spinach for earthy depth. The basic cheese mixture serves as a delicious canvas for your culinary creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why bother warming up the ricotta first?

Letting the ricotta sit at room temp makes it creamier and easier to mix evenly.

→ Can this dish be prepped in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare everything a day before, then simply bake it fresh when you're ready to serve.

→ Why isn't it freezer-friendly?

Freezing messes with the smoothness of ricotta, turning it a bit gritty.

→ Can I throw in other herbs?

Of course! Switch it up with things like basil, thyme, or whatever herb mix works for you.

→ How long can I keep leftovers?

Pop leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently to keep it moist and tasty.