This Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip is a fun twist on your favorite pizza! With sweet ham, juicy pineapple, and melted cheese, it’s perfect for sharing at parties or cozy nights in.
Trust me, everyone will love dipping into this cheesy goodness. I like to serve it with crunchy chips or fresh veggies—it adds a delicious crunch to each bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of our dip, giving it that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese instead—it’s lower in fat but still delicious!
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and richness. You can swap it out for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist with similar benefits.
Pizza Sauce: I like using store-bought pizza sauce for convenience, but marinara works just as well. If you want a kick, use spicy pizza sauce.
Ham: Diced cooked ham is traditional, but Canadian bacon or even turkey ham are great alternatives if you’re watching your fat intake.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple can be substituted for canned if you want a brighter flavor. Just make sure to chop it finely so it mixes well.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey top, but feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Baked Dip Consistency?
Getting that perfect texture takes a bit of care! Here are some tips to make sure your dip is creamy and not too runny:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened fully before mixing—this helps it blend smoothly without lumps.
- Mix the cream cheese and sour cream thoroughly to create a uniform mixture. It should be smooth and easy to spread.
- Don’t overbake! Keep an eye on your dip; you’re looking for melty cheese and a golden top, but not a dried-out finish.
- Let the dip sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to scoop.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have an amazing dip that everyone will be reaching for!
Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (or Canadian bacon)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks, drained and roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Optional: 1/4 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Tortilla chips, pita chips, or sliced veggies for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 25 minutes for baking, making a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish! It’s quick and easy, perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking your dip.
2. Mix the Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Use a spatula or an electric mixer to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is the base of your dip, and it should be easy to spread!
3. Add Flavors:
Next, stir in the pizza sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Mix everything together well to fully incorporate the ingredients.
4. Spread in a Dish:
Transfer your creamy mixture to an 8×8 inch baking dish (or something similar) and spread it evenly across the bottom. Don’t worry if it looks a little rustic—that’s how delicious dips are made!
5. Layer on the Toppings:
Sprinkle the diced ham and pineapple chunks evenly over the dip. After that, cover everything with the remaining mozzarella cheese. This will make it cheesy and yummy when baked!
6. Bake and Enjoy:
Put the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese on top to be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges.
7. Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, remove the dip from the oven carefully. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh and vibrant touch!
8. Serve and Dive In:
Serve this warm and cheesy Hawaiian Pizza Dip with your choice of tortilla chips, pita chips, or fresh veggie slices. Get your friends and family ready to dig in!
Enjoy this melty, sweet, and savory Hawaiian pizza-inspired dip that’s perfect for game day, parties, or casual snacking! It’s always a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Pineapple for This Dip?
Yes! If you’re using frozen pineapple, make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess liquid. This will prevent the dip from becoming too watery. Pat the pineapple dry with paper towels to absorb any moisture before mixing it in.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just cover the filled baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge. It may take a few extra minutes to heat through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a little extra cheese on top before warming for that fresh-baked finish!
What Can I Serve with This Dip Besides Chips?
If you’re looking for alternatives to chips, sliced veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots work great! You could also serve it with breadsticks or toasted baguette slices for a delicious twist.
