Name: Savory Basil Pesto Cheesecake Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp butter; 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs or panko; 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese; 0.5 cup basil pesto; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 8 ounces cream cheese; 2 eggs; 0.5 tsp kosher salt

Savory Basil Pesto Cheesecake Dip combines the richness of cream cheese and ricotta with the bold flavor of basil pesto to create an irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a dinner party or a casual family gathering, this show-stopping dish will have everyone coming back for more! Once you get the ingredients together for this dip, it’s just a matter of mixing them all together, pouring them into a dish and then baking it!

Appetizers

50 m

American

Weelicious

March 18, 2026

Weelicious.com

From the Cook

1/8

Savory Basil Pesto Cheesecake Dip

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Ingredients

Warning0 allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Brush a 6-inch spring form pan (or parchment lined 8×8-baking dish, pie pan or 6 inch cake pan) with 1 tablespoon of melted butter.

In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs and coat the buttered dish with the mixture pressing gently against the bottom and sides to get a uniform crust.

In a separate bowl, mix the remaining ingredients until smooth and pour into the dish.

Bake for 45-55 minutes until the center is set.

Allow to cool before cutting and/or releasing cheesecake from the spring form.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves or tomatoes and serve with a sliced baguette or crackers.

Nutrition

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Room Temperature Cheese Base 🧈
Allow cream cheese and ricotta to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free dip with better texture and easier blending with other ingredients.
Pesto Quality Matters 🌿
Use freshly made basil pesto or high-quality store-bought versions without excessive garlic that can overpower the delicate cheese flavors; taste as you go to control intensity.
Golden Breadcrumb Topping Trick 🥖
Toast your breadcrumbs or panko in butter separately before sprinkling on top, then add them in the final 5 minutes of baking to achieve a perfectly crispy, golden crust without burning.
Prevent Cracks with Low Baking Temperature 🌡️
Bake at 325°F instead of higher temperatures to prevent the cheesecake dip from cracking; the lower, slower heat creates a creamy, custard-like consistency throughout.
Chill Before Serving 🧊
Refrigerate the dip for at least 2 hours after baking to allow flavors to meld and the texture to set properly, making it easier to scoop and serve with crackers or vegetables.