If you’re craving a warm, tangy, and creamy delight that effortlessly elevates your snack game, then you are about to fall in love with this Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe. This dish combines the fresh brightness of lemon with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, perfectly balanced by garlic and Parmesan. It bakes up golden and bubbling, making it an irresistible appetizer or party favorite that everyone will be asking for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but each brings a wonderful contribution to this Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe. From the fresh lemon zest to the creamy ricotta, every element plays a role in making the dip burst with flavor and perfect texture.
- Whole milk ricotta cheese: The creamy base that lends smooth texture and mild dairy sweetness.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle, fruity richness and helps keep the dip moist while baking.
- Garlic clove, minced: Provides a gentle savory punch without overpowering the lemony freshness.
- Lemon zest: Brings a vibrant citrus aroma and brightness to every bite.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Enhances the tangy flavor that balances the cheese’s creaminess.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty depth and a hint of salty sharpness.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh herbal note and lovely color contrast.
- Kosher salt: To season and pull all the flavors together perfectly.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity to the dip.
- Optional garnishes: Lemon zest, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes for an extra punch and beautiful presentation.
How to Make Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, lightly grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking and help the edges brown nicely. This simple step ensures your baked dip has a gorgeous golden crust.
Step 2: Combine All the Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. For a super creamy and fluffy texture, whip the mixture using a hand mixer or food processor for about 1 to 2 minutes until smooth and airy.
Step 3: Transfer and Smooth the Mixture
Once your creamy lemony mixture is ready, spoon it carefully into the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to create an even, smooth surface, which will help the dip bake uniformly and look beautiful when served.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the dip to become lightly golden on top and just set through. That slight golden color promises a perfect balance of warm creaminess and subtly toasted flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve Warm
After baking, let the dip cool for about 5 minutes to set slightly. Then add your favorite garnish such as extra lemon zest, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an optional kick. Serve this warm Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe with crusty crostini, crunchy crackers, or fresh veggies for dipping.
How to Serve Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like lemon zest and freshly chopped parsley brighten the dip’s appearance and flavor. Crushed red pepper flakes add a lovely pop of heat. Don’t underestimate the power of these small touches—they take the dip from delicious to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs beautifully with rustic bread slices toasted to perfection, crisp crackers, or an assortment of vibrant vegetables such as cucumber, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. These sides add texture variety and make the dip a versatile appetizer for any gathering.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the dip in a colorful ceramic dish surrounded by a ring of assorted crackers and vegetable sticks. You can also drizzle a little olive oil over the top or sprinkle some extra Parmesan just before serving to elevate its visual appeal and taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it tightly sealed to preserve moisture and freshness. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat gently.
Freezing
While this dip tastes best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, although note that the texture might be slightly less creamy after freezing.
Reheating
Warm the dip in a low oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving for reheating if you want to maintain the smooth texture and avoid any separation. A quick reheat in the oven preserves the dip’s delicious creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use part-skim ricotta instead of whole milk ricotta?
Yes, you can, but whole milk ricotta provides a creamier and richer texture that’s ideal for this dip. Part-skim may result in a slightly drier dip.
Is there a vegan substitute for this Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe?
Absolutely, you can swap out ricotta for vegan ricotta made from nuts or tofu, and substitute Parmesan with a vegan alternative. Keep the other flavors, and you’ll still have a bright, tasty dip to enjoy.
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can mix the ingredients and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking. Let it come closer to room temperature before placing it in the oven for best results.
What’s the best bread to serve with this dip?
Crusty baguette or rustic Italian bread toasted into crostini works wonderfully to scoop up every spoonful of this creamy dip. Their crunch complements the velvety texture perfectly.
Can I add other herbs or spices to customize the flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to add fresh thyme, basil, or a pinch of smoked paprika to give your Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe a unique twist. Just keep the lemon and garlic flavors dominant for balance.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe is truly a little treasure that brings warmth, brightness, and creamy goodness to any gathering or cozy night in. It’s simple to whip up yet impressive enough to serve at your next party. Trust me, once you make it, this dip will become a beloved staple on your appetizer rotation—so go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy every luscious bite!
Print
Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Lemon Ricotta Dip is a creamy, tangy, and savory appetizer perfect for any gathering. Combining whole milk ricotta cheese with fresh lemon zest and juice, garlic, and Parmesan, it is baked until lightly golden and served warm with crostini, crackers, or vegetables. This simple yet flavorful dish adds a bright burst of freshness with every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional Garnish
- Lemon zest
- Fresh parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until smooth. For a creamier, whipped texture, you can use a hand mixer or food processor to blend the mixture for 1–2 minutes.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the ricotta mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is lightly golden on top and just set but still creamy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with additional lemon zest, fresh parsley, or crushed red pepper flakes as desired. Serve warm with crostini, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping.
Notes
- Using whole milk ricotta cheese gives the dip a rich and creamy texture.
- For an extra smooth dip, blend the ingredients thoroughly with a food processor or hand mixer.
- If desired, adjust salt and pepper to taste before baking.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture; leftovers can be refrigerated and gently warmed before serving.
- Optional garnishes add extra flavor and visual appeal but can be omitted to keep it simple.
