This warm, cheesy Hawaiian pizza dip is a fun twist on the classic favorite! It’s packed with gooey cheese, juicy pineapple, and savory ham. Perfect for sharing!
Honestly, who needs a fork? I love scooping this dip up with crunchy chips or bread! Just be ready, it disappears fast—everyone wants a taste! 😂
Making this dip is super easy! Just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a tasty treat at your next get-together or movie night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base for the dip, giving it a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try Neufchâtel cheese or a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Cheeses: Mozzarella adds stretch, while Parmesan brings a sharp flavor. If you want a twist, try adding cheddar or gouda. Use dairy-free cheeses if you’re avoiding dairy.
Chicken: Optional here, but I enjoy using it for added protein. You can swap it out for additional ham or even cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
Diced Ham: A classic for Hawaiian flavor. If you don’t have ham, turkey or even veggie bacon can work for a similar taste.
Pineapple: Don’t forget to drain the pineapple! Fresh pineapple works too. You can skip it for a less sweet dip.
How Do I Mix the Ingredients for the Best Flavor?
Mixing is about balancing flavors and achieving the right consistency. Start by beating the cream cheese until smooth, which makes the dip light and fluffy.
- Combine the cream cheese, pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder first. This ensures even flavor.
- Be gentle when folding in the cheeses and meats. You want to keep the mix light.
- Add the pineapple last and mix just until combined to prevent it from breaking down too much.
This will help ensure every bite has a balanced flavor and creamy texture. Enjoy your dip!
How to Make Baked Hawaiian Pizza Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken (optional, can be omitted or replaced with more ham)
- 1/2 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crackers, breadsticks, or tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 20-25 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes to have this yummy Hawaiian Pizza Dip ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your dip bakes evenly and becomes bubbly and delicious.
2. Make the Base Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Use a fork or a mixer to blend everything until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy base of your dip.
3. Add the Cheeses:
Next, fold in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (save the other half for later) and the grated Parmesan cheese. Gently mix until everything is just combined, keeping the mixture light and airy.
4. Mix in Proteins and Pineapple:
If you’re using it, gently mix in the cooked chicken, diced ham, and the drained crushed pineapple. Stir until everything is blended nicely together—this adds flavor and texture!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the mixture evenly into a baking dish. It’s best if the dish is around 8×8 inches or similar. Smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your dip. This will create a delicious cheesy layer when it bakes!
7. Bake It Up:
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for the dip to be hot and bubbly, with the cheese beginning to turn golden brown.
8. Final Touch:
Once done, carefully remove your dip from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the dip warm with your choice of crackers, breadsticks, or tortilla chips. Get ready for a tasty treat that everyone will love!
Enjoy this sweet and savory Hawaiian Pizza Dip as a perfect party appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese as a substitute for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may affect the creaminess of the dip, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make This Dip Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some diced jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to bake it fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.