🌟 Instant Pot Mediterranean Pizza Dip
Description:
This creamy, cheesy Mediterranean-style dip is an explosion of flavors with every bite—savory diced ham, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy artichoke hearts, and briny black olives melted together with rich cheeses and a hint of garlic and oregano. Made quickly in the Instant Pot, it’s the perfect party dip or indulgent snack for a cozy evening. Serve it warm with crusty bread, pita chips, or crackers.
🛒 Ingredients:
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup chopped artichoke hearts (canned or marinated)
- 1/3 cup sliced black olives
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
🍳 Instructions:
- Prep Your Instant Pot:
Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add the diced ham and cook for 2–3 minutes to lightly brown. - Add the Flavor Base:
Toss in the cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and black olives. Stir for 1–2 minutes until slightly softened. - Mix in the Cheeses & Seasoning:
Add the cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, and milk/cream. Stir continuously for 3–5 minutes until all cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is creamy. - Switch to Keep Warm:
Once melted and smooth, cancel “Sauté” and switch to “Keep Warm” mode. Let the dip sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly. - Garnish & Serve:
Top with fresh basil and serve warm with your favorite dippers like toasted baguette slices, pita chips, or veggie sticks.
🍽️ Servings:
Makes about 8 servings — perfect for a small gathering or a game night appetizer!
🧠 Tips & Notes:
- Cheese Swap: You can sub in provolone or fontina for mozzarella if desired.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham or replace with sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped pepperoncini.
- Stovetop Version: No Instant Pot? Use a skillet on medium heat and stir until melted.
- Leftover Tip: Use leftovers as a stuffing for mushrooms or a topping for baked potatoes!
🧮 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving):
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 560mg
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients/brands used.
💪 Benefits:
- High in Protein: Thanks to ham and cheese.
- Mediterranean Flavors: Includes heart-healthy ingredients like olives and tomatoes.
- Comforting & Satisfying: Perfect for curbing cravings without a heavy entrée.
- Easy & Fast: Ready in 15 minutes or less using the Instant Pot!
❓Q&A:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dip, refrigerate it, and reheat in the Instant Pot or microwave.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat gently and stir well as the texture may slightly change.
Q: What are good dippers for this dip?
A: Crusty bread, garlic naan, pita chips, raw veggies, or even tortilla chips work great!
Q: How long will it keep in the fridge?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.