Description
This Lasagna Dip is a warm, cheesy appetizer that combines seasoned ground beef and Italian sausage with marinara sauce and a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s perfect for sharing with crusty bread, crackers, or chips.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) jar marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Creamy Cheese Layer
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, crackers, or chips for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and chopped onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, breaking the meat apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Creamy Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese to the mixture, then stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Dip: In a baking dish (a 9×9-inch dish works well), spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly on the bottom. Top with the meat and marinara sauce mixture, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the meat layer.
- Bake the Dip: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or chips for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier dip, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Use Italian sausage for a more robust flavor or ground beef for a milder taste.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing for a smoother creamy layer.
- You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and assemble just before baking to save time.
- This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers such as toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or vegetable sticks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
