Name: Slow Cooker Pizza Dip Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 ½ cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 5 ounces pepperoni minis; 14 ounces jarred pizza sauce; 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil (optional garnish); French bread, breadsticks, naan bread, or fresh veggies for dipping

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 24 reviews

If you love the joy of a bubbling, cheesy appetizer that’s ridiculously easy to make, Slow Cooker Pizza Dip will win your heart (and your tastebuds) every time. With layers of creamy cheese, pepperoni, and all the crave-worthy flavors of your favorite slice, this dip transforms any get-together into a pizza party. Whether you’re hosting a game day, holiday bash, or simply a fun family night in, this set-it-and-forget-it recipe makes entertaining deliciously simple. Grab your favorite dippers and get ready for melty, saucy, pizza-inspired perfection!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Slow Cooker Pizza Dip Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Pizza Dip is as effortless as it is irresistible, thanks to just a handful of familiar, crowd-pleasing ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building up that classic pizza flavor with seriously creamy, gooey results!

Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese forms the luscious, creamy base that holds everything together and adds a subtle tang.
Freshly shredded mozzarella cheese: Divided between two layers, this makes the dip stretchily cheesy—don’t skip the fresh shredding for best melt!
Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty punch that balances all the melty richness.
Italian seasoning: A simple blend that infuses those herby, unmistakable pizza notes throughout the dip.
Garlic powder: Just a teaspoon brings in fragrant, warm depth that pairs perfectly with pizza flavors.
Pepperoni minis: These cute little slices dot every bite with spicy, savory goodness—absolutely necessary for a true pizza experience.
Jarred pizza sauce: Ragu or your favorite brand works great, bringing the bright tomato zing and keeping everything saucy.
Fresh chopped basil (optional): Sprinkle fresh basil on top right before serving for a pop of color and fresh scent.
French bread, bread sticks, naan bread, or fresh veggies: All perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite—mix and match for a fun platter!

How to Make Slow Cooker Pizza Dip

Step 1: Whip the Cream Cheese

To kick things off, grab your hand mixer and beat the softened cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl until it’s super smooth and fluffy. This step is key for an easy-to-scoop dip without any lumps—plus, it makes the final texture extra creamy.

Step 2: Combine the Cheeses & Seasonings

Into that bowl of whipped cream cheese, add 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella, the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Give everything a good mix until it’s evenly combined and speckled with herbs. You’re already halfway to that iconic pizza taste and smell!

Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Lightly coat your slow cooker with nonstick spray so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze. Now, spread the cheesy mixture evenly on the bottom—this is the base for building all those delicious pizza layers.

Step 4: Add the First Layer of Pepperoni

Sprinkle half of the pepperoni minis over the creamy cheese layer. They’ll add pops of spicy flavor throughout the dip, just like you love in every bite of pizza.

Step 5: Pour Over Pizza Sauce

Next, evenly spread the jarred pizza sauce right over the pepperoni. The sauce will soak into the cheese below and keep the whole dip perfectly saucy and irresistible.

Step 6: Top with More Cheese and Pepperoni

Time for the ooey-gooey top! Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella over the pizza sauce, then scatter the rest of the pepperoni minis for that picture-perfect topping.

Step 7: Slow Cook Until Bubbly

Cover and set your slow cooker to high for about 2 hours (or low for 3). Once the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, your Slow Cooker Pizza Dip is ready for its grand entrance.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, scatter fresh chopped basil on top for a pop of color and a bright, herby aroma. Set out your dippers—bread, bread sticks, naan, or veggies—and watch as everyone digs in for a taste of pizza heaven!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pizza Dip

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil is a must for both aroma and a splash of green, but you can also add a few extra pepperoni minis or a dusting of parmesan for extra flair. If you want a little kick, try crushed red pepper flakes or sliced black olives as simple, tasty garnishes!

Side Dishes

Pair this dip with a festive platter of bread sticks, warm naan, crusty French bread slices, or an array of crunchy veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots. If you’re hosting a bigger spread, round things out with light salads to balance all the cheesy, melty decadence!

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Slow Cooker Pizza Dip in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a dramatic centerpiece—guests can tear off pieces of the bowl as they scoop. For individual portions, use small ramekins or oven-safe mugs, each topped with their own little nest of cheese and pepperoni. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, no matter how you serve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow end up with leftover Slow Cooker Pizza Dip, simply transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making reheated portions just as delicious the second (or third) time!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze portions of this dip for future snack attacks. Let it cool completely, scoop into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To bring your Slow Cooker Pizza Dip back to hot and bubbly, microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until fully heated. Alternately, you can reheat larger amounts in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting or in an oven-safe dish at 350°F until melty again.

FAQs

Can I add other pizza toppings to Slow Cooker Pizza Dip?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, or black olives—just make sure any veggies are cooked and well-drained before layering them in. It’s a fun way to personalize your dip!

Do I need to use mini pepperonis or can I use regular sized ones?

Mini pepperonis are great because they distribute evenly, but you can use classic slices too—just give them a rough chop for bite-sized pieces. Turkey pepperoni is also a tasty, lighter option.

Can Slow Cooker Pizza Dip be made vegetarian?

Definitely! Just skip the pepperoni and add more veggies like sautéed mushrooms, onions, black olives, or even cooked and drained spinach. You’ll still get that pizza flavor, minus the meat.

Can I assemble the dip in advance to make party prep easier?

Yes! You can assemble all the layers in your slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. When you’re ready to party, simply start the slow cooker per the directions and you’re good to go.

How do I keep Slow Cooker Pizza Dip warm during a party?

Use your slow cooker’s “warm” setting to keep the dip at the perfect serving temperature throughout your event. Just stir occasionally and keep the lid cracked so any condensation doesn’t drip onto the cheese.

Final Thoughts

Every bite of Slow Cooker Pizza Dip is pure comfort—gooey, cheesy, and loaded with all the flavors you crave from a hot, fresh pizza. It’s truly the ultimate party trick for gatherings or cozy nights in. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it disappears in minutes!