This Roasted Red Pepper Dip is a creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet appetizer that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. With a smooth cream cheese base and the rich flavor of roasted red peppers, this dip is a vibrant and sophisticated addition to any snack table, party spread, or mezze platter.
In just a few minutes, you can whip up a dip that’s bursting with flavor from garlic, balsamic vinegar, and herbs. It’s perfect for serving with pita chips, fresh vegetables, or as a flavorful spread for sandwiches and wraps.
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Red Pepper Dip
This Roasted Red Pepper Dip is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s creamy, savory, and has just the right amount of smoky sweetness from the peppers. The dip is incredibly quick to whip up, requires no cooking (if you use jarred peppers), and can be made ahead of time, making it a stress-free option for entertaining.
Its beautiful, bright color and sophisticated flavor will impress your guests, while its simplicity will make it a recipe you turn to again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened (light or full-fat)
- 1 (7 oz) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the cream cheese base
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, dried basil, salt, and a pinch of black pepper and red pepper flakes (if using). Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the roasted red peppers
Make sure the roasted red peppers are well-drained to prevent the dip from becoming watery. Chop them roughly and add them to the cream cheese mixture.
Step 3: Blend the dip
For a super smooth, whipped texture, transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and pulse until completely smooth.
For a chunkier, more rustic dip, simply stir the chopped peppers into the cream cheese base by hand until they are well incorporated.
Step 4: Chill for flavor
For the best flavor, cover the dip and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the garlic, herbs, and pepper flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few extra pieces of chopped roasted red pepper. Serve with your favorite crackers, pita bread, or vegetable sticks.
Expert Tips for Success
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Soften the cream cheese: Bringing the cream cheese to room temperature is essential for a smooth, lump-free dip.
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Drain the peppers thoroughly: Pat the drained peppers with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
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Taste and adjust: After chilling, taste the dip and adjust the seasonings. It might need a bit more salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor compared to garlic powder.
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A little tang: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors even more.
Tasty Variations to Try
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Add more cheese: Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese for a saltier, tangier flavor.
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Make it nutty: Add a handful of toasted walnuts or almonds to the food processor for a dip with a richer, more complex texture.
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Fresh herbs: Swap dried basil for fresh, or add other fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
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Smoky twist: A pinch of smoked paprika will enhance the smoky flavor of the roasted peppers.
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Make it spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Serving Ideas
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As a spread: Use it as a flavorful spread on sandwiches, wraps, or toast. It’s especially good on a turkey or veggie sandwich.
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On a charcuterie board: Its vibrant color makes it a beautiful addition to any cheese or charcuterie board.
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Pasta sauce: Thin it out with a little pasta water or milk to create a quick and creamy pasta sauce.
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Topping for chicken: Serve a dollop on top of grilled chicken or fish for a burst of flavor.
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Party dip: Serve in a decorative bowl as an easy, elegant appetizer for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, this dip is perfect for making ahead. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will actually get better over time.
Can I use fresh bell peppers instead of jarred?
Absolutely. To roast your own, slice red bell peppers in half, remove the seeds, and roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until the skin is blistered and charred. Let them cool in a covered bowl, then peel off the skin.
How can I make this dip vegan?
Simply use your favorite brand of dairy-free cream cheese. The recipe will work just as well.
What should I serve with this dip?
This dip is incredibly versatile. It’s delicious with pita chips, tortilla chips, pretzels, and all kinds of crackers. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips.
Is this dip gluten-free?
Yes, the dip itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetables.
Print
Roasted Red Pepper Dip
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet appetizer with a vibrant flavor and color. A smooth cream cheese base with roasted red peppers, garlic, and herbs, perfect with pita chips or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (7 oz) jar roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- ½ tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
- Pita chips, crackers, or vegetables, for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, basil, salt, and pepper. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Add well-drained and chopped roasted peppers to the cream cheese mixture.
- For a smooth texture, pulse in a food processor. For a chunkier dip, stir by hand until combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with olive oil or extra chopped peppers. Serve with pita chips, crackers, or veggie sticks.
Notes
Soften cream cheese to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free dip.
Drain and pat peppers dry to avoid a watery consistency.
Chill the dip before serving so flavors can deepen.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
The dip can be made up to 4 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: No-Cook / Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 recipe
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 245mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: roasted red pepper dip, creamy pepper dip, easy party appetizer, cream cheese dip recipe, mediterranean dip
