This warm and cheesy Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip is sure to make everyone smile! With gooey cheese, tasty ham, and sweet pineapple, it’s like pizza in a bowl. Perfect for sharing at parties!
I can’t resist scooping it up with tortilla chips. It’s the best combination of flavors, and let’s be real, there’s nothing better than cheese and pineapple coming together! 🍍🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of our dip, giving it a rich and creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese substitute.
Pizza Sauce: Any jarred pizza sauce works here. You can also make a quick sauce by mixing crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs. It’s fun to customize the flavor this way!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella adds that lovely stretchiness. If you’re out, try using cheddar or even a blend of Italian cheeses. I often mix in a bit of provolone for added flavor.
Ham or Pepperoni: Diced ham gives a nice salty kick, but if you’re vegetarian, consider using mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also use turkey ham if you prefer a leaner meat option.
Pineapple Chunks: Canned pineapple works great, but fresh pineapple is sweeter and adds a refreshing taste. If you’re not a fan of pineapple, try diced jalapeños for a spicy twist!
Dried Oregano & Garlic Powder: These are optional but recommended for extra flavor. Fresh herbs can be used, but keep in mind they’ll need a bit more cooking time to release their flavors.
How Can I Achieve the Perfectly Baked Dip?
Getting the right texture for your baked dip is key! To ensure your dip turns out creamy and bubbly, follow these simple steps:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened. It blends easier with the other ingredients, creating a smooth base.
- Don’t rush the baking. Let it bake until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, so keep an eye on it!
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It sets a bit more, making it easier to scoop with chips.
With these tips, your dip will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
How to Make Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked ham or pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
Optional Seasonings:
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. You can expect a total of roughly 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delectable dish for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your dip goes in!
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, add the softened cream cheese and the pizza sauce. Mix these together until everything is smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your dip.
3. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Next, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. If you’d like, you can also mix in the dried oregano and garlic powder at this point for added flavor.
4. Spread in Baking Dish:
Take your cream cheese mixture and spread it evenly into a baking dish that’s about 8×8 inches in size. Make sure it’s smooth on top!
5. Layer the Ham or Pepperoni:
Now it’s time to arrange the chopped ham or pepperoni slices evenly over the cream cheese mixture. This adds a savory punch to your dip.
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ham. This will melt beautifully and create that cheesy goodness we love!
7. Top with Pineapple:
Finally, scatter the drained pineapple chunks over the cheese. This adds a lovely sweet touch to our pizza dip.
8. Bake the Dip:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Cool Before Serving:
Once it’s done baking, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set up a little more and makes it easier to scoop.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip with tortilla chips or your favorite crackers for dipping. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavor explosion!
This cheesy dip is always a hit, so don’t be surprised if it disappears quickly!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Dip?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its stretchiness, you can mix in other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses to suit your taste. Just make sure to maintain the total amount of cheese for the best texture.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dip a day in advance! Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be aware that it might not retain that crispy top.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with the toppings. You can add diced bell peppers, onions, or even mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. If you prefer it spicier, jalapeños would be a great addition too!
