This Baked Ricotta Dip is the ultimate hot dip. Ready in just 30 minutes, you’ll dive into creamy ricotta cheese dip goodness. A quick bruschetta tomato topping takes it, over the top!
Whether you need a quick dip with great flavors for the holiday season or a summer potluck, this is a great appetizer! Unlike whipped ricotta dip, this is a baked warm dip. It is gluten-free and low-carb too!
I enjoy giving precise details in my recipe posts to lead my readers through any questions. If you’re just here for the printable recipe, use the Jump to Recipe to head straight there!
Why You Will Love This Ricotta Cheese Dip Recipe
- 30-Minute Recipe – Make the perfect dip in three easy steps- mix, bake, top, then dig in!
- Versatile – This delicious dip recipe is great for any time of the year and any occasion. Think holidays, game day, potlucks, and parties.
- Fresh Ingredients —The next time you need to bring a dish to a gathering, make this crowd-favorite dip with fresh ingredients in less time.
What is Ricotta Cheese?
Ricotta cheese is a creamy, soft cheese made from the whey left over from other cheese production, such as mozzarella. It has a slightly sweet flavor and a smooth texture, making it versatile for both sweet and savory dishes.
Using whole milk ricotta offers a richer and creamier texture compared to low-fat or skim versions. The higher fat content in whole milk ricotta contributes to a more luxurious flavor profile of dishes like lasagna, cheesecake, or stuffed pasta. Whole milk ricotta also tends to be more stable when cooked, resulting in a smoother and more velvety consistency in your recipes.
Simple Ingredients for Baked Ricotta Dip
- Ricotta | Fresh ricotta is best, I use whole milk ricotta cheese for the creamiest flavor!
- Egg | One large egg helps to make a fluffy texture perfect for dipping.
- Parmesan | Freshly grated parmesan cheese brings a more robust cheese flavor to the mild ricotta base.
- Garlic | A couple of fresh garlic cloves, minced or pressed, add depth in flavor and subtle spice.
- Seasoning | Of course, Italian seasoning and a bit of kosher salt and black pepper are the best seasoning mix to highlight the natural flavors of the ricotta and parmesan cheese dip.
- Oil | Mix in quality extra virgin olive oil to add a subtle taste and a silky and creamy texture.
- Tomato Bruschetta Topping: Cherry or grape tomatoes, fresh basil, dried oregano, kosher salt and a little olive oil.
Get the full recipe in the recipe card below.
How to Make Baked Ricotta Dip
Step 1 | Prep and Preheat
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190° C) and lightly spray or rub a small baking dish with oil.
Step 2 | Assemble the ricotta cheese dip
Add the fresh ricotta, beaten egg, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to a mixing bowl.
Combine the ingredients until they are creamy and smooth. You can mix by hand, or use a food processor, hand mixer or stand mixer for the creamiest baked ricotta dip.
Step 3 | Bake
Next, lightly drizzle olive oil in a 2 to 3-cup baking dish and use a paper towel or pastry brush to coat the inside evenly. Scoop the ricotta mixture into the prepared dish, spread evenly.
Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Remember to keep an eye on the cheesy dip as it bakes to avoid overcooking it.
Step 4 | Make Bruschetta Topping
In the meantime, combine the chopped cherry tomatoes, chiffonaded basil leaves (basil sliced into ribbons), oregano, salt, and olive oil in a medium bowl. Mix until the flavors are well combined. Set aside.
What does chiffonade mean?
- Translated from French; a preparation of shredded or finely cut leaf vegetables.
- How to Chiffonade basil? Take basil leaves and stack 2-3 one on top of the other, roll them tightly then slice little ribbons of basil.
Step 5 | Add topping and serve!
Remove the dip after the directed baking time, or broil it for just a couple of minutes to get an extra golden top.
Use a spoon to add the fresh tomato topping to the warm baked ricotta dip. Then, drizzle a little more olive oil on top, serve with crusty bread or your favorite crackers, and enjoy!
If desired, place a heat proof platter over the top of the baker, carefully invert onto the plate, the dip should slip right out for an even more elegant presentation. Spoon the tomato bruschetta over the top and serve immediatley.
Fresh Tips
- Don’t be shy with the seasoning– It gives this easy appetizer the most flavor!
- This baked ricotta recipe is best served warm and fresh from the oven to contrast the cool tomato topping.
- Some of my favorite things to serve this dip with are slices of toasted bread called crostini, crackers, and other crispy dippers, contrasting the creaminess of the ricotta cheese.
Some of the most comforting dishes are from Italian cuisine, making it excellent for a dinner party or holiday meal.
Here are some more Italian appetizers and meals perfect for hosting an Italian dinner for friends and family: Air Fryer Italian Sausage and Peppers, Burrata Pesto Appetizer and don’t forget this Authentic Spaghetti Sauce and this yummy and easy Italian Stromboli recipe!
Variations & Substitutions
- Add to the Topping: Boost the flavor of the bruschetta topping with regular or roasted garlic, kalamata olives, diced cucumber, and a tasty drizzle of balsamic glaze for a Mediterranean touch!
- Roasted Tomato Topping: I like the contrast of the cool and fresh bruschetta topping, but it’s also excellent when roasted!
- If you’re not a fan of bruschetta or fresh tomatoes, swap the topping for a sweet drizzle of honey. Use my hot honey recipe for a kick of heat!
- Lemon: Add fresh lemon zest and a spoonful of lemon juice for lemon ricotta dip!
- Add-Ins: Sun-dried tomatoes and a swirl of pesto mixed into the ricotta mixture give the dip recipe some contrasting texture and loads of flavor. Try my Nut-Free Basil Pesto Sauce! Mix in some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Tex-Mex Baked Ricotta Dip: To give the dip a southwestern-style heat, add spicy pickled jalapenos, top with sliced tomatoes and chopped cilantro, and add chili flakes.
- Extra Herbs: Have fun adding herbs like dried or fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives. You can work with dried or fresh herbs or a combination.
Recommended Tools
- I love these easy to clean up Staub baking dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Ricotta cheese is not toxic for dogs, but, like with any dairy product, it can mess with your dog’s stomach. It’s also high in fat, making it better treated as an occasional bite (if at all) and not a regular part of their diet.
Sure! Make the creamy dip in advance by combining the ricotta mixture and storing it in the refrigerator. When ready, bake the dip and add the fresh tomato topping before serving.
Yes—To prevent the crowd from double-dipping, bake the dip in individual ramekins, reducing the cooking time by a few minutes. Watch the mini dip portions closely to ensure they don’t overbake.
Because of the fruity and rich flavor of extra-virgin olive oil, it tends to be a popular choice for drizzling on top of dishes.
If preferred, omit the egg. The cheese dip will still be delicious but will lack structure and creaminess compared to the original recipe.
Ricotta cheese is creamy, made from whey from cheeses like mozzarella, and has a slightly sweet flavor. Cottage cheese is made from cow’s milk curds, has a mild flavor, and has a curdy texture. It is often used in salads and dips. The key differences are in texture, flavor, and production.
Storage Tips
Leftover ricotta dip is rare! Add the cooled dip to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, store the topping separately from the cheesy dip.
7 Ways to use leftover Ricotta Dip
- Stuffed Vegetables: Use it as a filling for stuffed peppers, mushrooms, or zucchinis. Just hollow out the vegetables and stuff them with the leftover dip before baking until heated through.
- Pasta Sauce: Mix the leftover dip with cooked pasta for a creamy and flavorful sauce or pasta bake.
- Pizza Topping: Spread the leftover dip on pizza dough as a creamy topping or spoon into calzones for a yummy filling!
- Breakfast Omelette or Frittata: Incorporate the leftover dip into your morning eggs for a rich and creamy omelette or frittata filling.
- Baked Potatoes: Use the leftover dip as a topping for baked potatoes.
- Sandwich Spread: Spread the leftover dip on sandwiches or wraps for a creamy and flavorful twist.
- Dip for Fresh Vegetables or Chips: Serve the leftover dip as a dip for fresh vegetables, crackers, or chips for a quick and easy snack.
What to serve with Savory Baked Ricotta Cheese Dip
Serve this delicious, easy dip with Italian bread, tangy sourdough bread, pita bread, flatbread crackers, pita chips, or baguette slices.
You want a variety of flavors and textures that will complement the dip and let it shine, not overpower it. Fresh veggies like cucumber slices, bell peppers, and carrots are also a great option for dipping.
Best Main Dishes for Creamy Baked Ricotta Dip
This Italian Ricotta Dip is the perfect appetizer for an Italian main dish. These great recipes are a real crowd pleaser like my tender Italian Braised Short Ribs, comforting Penne alla vodka or this hearty Classic Stromboli recipe.
Easy Penne alla Vodka with Sausage (30 Minute)
Easy and delicious this Penne alla vodka with sausage is perfect for entertaining or a busy weeknight meal.
Best Italian Braised Short Ribs Recipe
These tender Italian Braised Short Ribs are exquisite, and perfect for a chilly fall or winter day! Both elegant and amazingly simple; for Sunday dinner or a special occasion. Slow braised Italian short ribs in a rich, herb and vegetable-infused red wine beef gravy. This is a slow cooked meal done in your Dutch Oven.
Classic Stromboli Recipe
A fun and easy authentic Italian Stromboli recipe! This recipe has yummy ingredients like thinly sliced salami, pepperoni, capicola, and a blend of Italian cheeses. It's a family favorite and will remind you of your favorite local pizzeria.
Best Desserts to Serve with Italian Baked Ricotta Recipe
Enjoy a classic Italian dessert, like this sweet and light Italian Cream Puff Cake recipe, mouth-watering Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake, or traditional Italian Tiramisu.
Best Italian Cream Puff Cake Recipe
This Italian Cream Puff Cake recipe is a giant light and airy cream puff and creamy, delicious filling, this cake is the perfect end to any meal!
Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake. Savor the perfect blend of Italian cheesecake goodness in every bite. The essence of Italy is in this delightful ricotta cake.
Easily adapt to be gluten-free and low-carb!
Classic Italian Tiramisu Recipe
Traditional Tiramisu is an Italian dessert recipe with layers of mascarpone custard, whipped cream, layered between rum and espresso soaked ladyfingers.
More Easy Cheesy Dip Recipes
Watch carefully, this simple appetizer can easily overbake. So, check it close to the end of the recommended cooking time and remove it when the top is golden and the center is set.
I hope you loved this Cheesy Italian Baked Ricotta Dip — if you did, would you share your creation on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest? And be sure to comment below!
Like this recipe?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and leave a comment below the recipe!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese other % may be used, but won't be as creamy
- 1 large egg beaten
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced or pressed (not shown
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Bruschetta Topping
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, cut into quarters
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves chiffonade (cut into ribbons)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190° C). And spray a 3 cup baking dish with a little oil or rub with oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh ricotta (15 oz), beaten egg (1), 2 cloves minced garlic, freshly grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup), Italian seasoning (1 tsp), salt (1 tsp), and black pepper (½ tsp). Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined, creating a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Drizzle a bit of olive oil into a 2-3 cup baking dish, using a paper towel or pastry brush to make evenly coated to prevent sticking. Transfer the ricotta mixture to the dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and the center is set. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
- If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes or until the top is golden brown – watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
- While the ricotta is baking, combine the chopped cherry tomatoes (1 ½ cups), chiffonaded basil leaves (¼ cup), oregano (1 tsp), salt (1 tsp), and olive oil (2 TBL)in a separate bowl. Mix well to allow the flavors to marry.
- Spoon the fresh tomato topping over the warm ricotta once the baked ricotta is out of the oven.
- Drizzle a bit of additional olive oil on top if desired, and serve the baked ricotta with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
Serve the baked ricotta with slices of crusty bread, your favorite crackers, sliced veggies or keto crackers for a low-carb snack. Variations
- Enhance the tomato topping with kalamata olives and diced cucumber. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
- Roast the tomato mixture prior, similar to my burrata pesto appetizer.
- Try omitting the tomatoes and instead, drizzle a little regular honey or hot honey over the ricotta mixture.
- Add the zest from one lemon and 1 tablespoons of lemon juice to the mixture for a lemon ricotta twist.
- Mix sun-dried tomatoes into the ricotta mixture and swirl pesto on top before baking.
Make it more Tex-Mex, by adding diced pickled jalapeños into the ricotta mixture for a spicy kick. Top with sliced fresh tomatoes and cilantro before serving. - Serve with
- Serve slices of crusty Italian bread, Flatbread crackers or a baguette alongside the baked ricotta.
- Choose a variety of herbed crackers for a crunchy and seasoned accompaniment.
- Offer a selection of fresh vegetable sticks such as cucumber, bell pepper, and carrot for a lighter option.
Store any leftover baked ricotta in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
If possible, store the baked ricotta and tomato topping separately. This helps maintain the texture and flavors, and you can reheat the ricotta while keeping the tomato topping fresh. Use within 2-3 Days:
It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as it may alter the texture of the ricotta. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a short period. See post for 7 ways to use leftover Ricotta cheese dip!
Nutrition
Kim
This was so creamy and delicious. I’ll be making this again!
Thanks Kim!!
Lauren
This baked ricotta dip was amazing! I had never made anything like it before but will definitely be making it more often now – thanks!
Glad you loved it!!
Lisa
This dip is absolutely amazing. It’s like the best part of the lasagna in a bowl, I could have eaten the whole thing myself. Thanks for the great recipe!
So glad you enjoyed it, Lisa!
Ned
This dip is a game changer! Thank you so much for this yummy recipe! My family ate it up so fast, they all loved it!
Thanks so much. So glad you all loved it!!