Easy Mardi Gras Hot Muffuletta Dip – A Flavorful Appetizer Recipe
This Easy Mardi Gras Hot Muffuletta Dip is a flavorful and festive appetizer inspired by the classic New Orleans sandwich. Combining pitted green olives, roasted red peppers, giardiniera, cream cheese, salami, and provolone cheese, this warm, cheesy dip offers a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and spicy flavors. Garnished with fresh parsley and melted mozzarella, it’s ideal for parties or game day gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Ingredients
Vegetables and Peppers
- 6 oz pitted green olives
- ½ cup roasted red pepper
- ½ cup giardiniera
Dairy
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz provolone cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon grated mozzarella cheese
Meat
- 1 cup salami, cut into small cubes
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely minced for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing. Dice the salami and provolone cheese into small cubes for an even texture throughout the dip.
- Mix the base: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pitted green olives, roasted red peppers, and giardiniera. Add the garlic powder and stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add the meats and cheeses: Fold in the cubed salami and provolone cheese gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture without breaking up too much.
- Transfer to baking dish and top: Spoon the mixture into an oven-safe dish or cast iron skillet. Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to create a deliciously melty topping when baked.
- Bake the dip: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the dip from the oven and sprinkle the freshly minced parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot with slices of French bread, crackers, or crisp vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- You can adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of giardiniera.
- Make sure cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure a smooth dip.
- For a quicker option, you can broil the dip for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese instead of baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
