Roasted Garlic Caprese Dip

Few things bring comfort and elegance to the table quite like Roasted Garlic Caprese Dip. With its creamy cheese base infused with sweet roasted garlic, fresh basil, and juicy cherry tomatoes, this warm dip takes the classic caprese flavors and transforms them into a shareable dish everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family gathering, or planning a cozy night in, this recipe is the perfect centerpiece.

What makes this dip irresistible is the slow-roasted garlic, which adds a rich depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the light ricotta, melty mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan. The vibrant topping of basil and tomatoes keeps every bite fresh, while a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds just the right balance of sweetness.

Interestingly, the caprese salad originated on the Italian island of Capri, known for its sun-ripened tomatoes and fragrant basil. Today, this recipe brings that heritage to your kitchen in a warm, modern way. Serve with crusty bread or crostini and watch it disappear in minutes.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

1 head garlic
2 tbsp olive oil
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp sea salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp balsamic glaze

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Roast the garlic:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 35 minutes until soft and golden.

2. Prepare the cheese base:
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Mix until smooth and creamy.

3. Add roasted garlic:
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of the skin and mash them into the cheese mixture until fully blended.

4. Bake the dip:
Transfer mixture into a small baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.

5. Top with tomatoes and basil:
Remove from oven and immediately top with cherry tomatoes and chopped basil for freshness.

6. Finish and serve:
Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze. Serve warm with crostini, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetables.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Roast Garlic Properly: Slow roasting caramelizes garlic, giving the dip a deep, sweet flavor. Don’t rush this step.
• Balance the Cheese: Using ricotta keeps the dip light while mozzarella and Parmesan add melty, savory richness.
• Tomato Freshness Counts: Use ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and color contrast against the warm, cheesy dip.