Baked Ricotta Dip with Garlic, Lemon, and Rosemary Recipe

Introduction

Baked Ricotta Dip is a warm and creamy appetizer perfect for any gathering. With fresh herbs and melted cheese, it pairs wonderfully with toasted baguette slices. It’s simple to make but impressively delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• Baguette bread, sliced and toasted

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and half of the fresh rosemary.
3. Step 3: Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: Spread the mixture evenly into a 6-inch oven-safe pan.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Step 6: Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F.
7. Step 7: Change oven setting to broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
8. Step 8: Remove from oven and sprinkle with the remaining fresh rosemary.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with toasted baguette slices and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture before baking.
• Substitute fresh rosemary with thyme or basil for a different herbaceous note.
• Use a mix of cheeses such as fontina or gouda for a richer dip.
• Serve with an assortment of crackers or vegetable sticks for variety.

Storage

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dip ahead of time and keep it refrigerated. Bake it fresh just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use frozen ricotta cheese?

It’s best to use fresh ricotta, as frozen ricotta can become watery and affect the dip’s consistency.

Baked Ricotta Dip with Garlic, Lemon, and Rosemary Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 66 reviews

This Baked Ricotta Dip is a creamy, garlicky appetizer featuring ricotta cheese blended with fresh garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect served warm alongside toasted baguette slices for a delightful starter or snack.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dip Ingredients

• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, divided
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Serving

• Baguette bread, sliced and toasted

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the dip.
2. Combine the base ingredients. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and half of the rosemary (1/2 tbsp). Stir well to blend the flavors.
3. Season the mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the dip has a balanced flavor.
4. Prepare the baking dish. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly into a 6-inch oven-safe pan or dish.
5. Add the cheeses on top. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the ricotta mixture to create a flavorful, melty topping.
6. Bake the dip. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15 minutes to heat through and melt the cheeses.
7. Broil to finish. Switch the oven to broil and cook the dip for an additional 5 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish and serve. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining fresh rosemary over the top, and serve warm with toasted baguette slices for dipping.

Notes

• You can substitute fresh herbs like thyme or basil instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes into the ricotta mixture.
• Ensure the baguette slices are toasted for added crunch and contrast to the creamy dip.
• This dip can be prepared ahead of time; just bake right before serving for best results.

Keywords: baked ricotta dip, ricotta cheese dip, cheesy appetizer, Italian dip, baked cheese dip, easy party appetizer