Italian Layered Spread: A Savory Cheese and Pesto Delight
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Category: Spreads
Servings: 6
Rating: ★★★★★ (9 Reviews)
If you’re searching for a simple, crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack, this Italian Layered Spread is the perfect choice. With a creamy base, savory pesto layers, and a sprinkle of cheese, this spread is ideal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a brunch, a casual gathering, or just craving a savory treat. The flavor-packed combination of cream cheese, pesto, parmesan, and mozzarella makes it irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 1 (8 oz) package |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Pesto sauce | 1/3 cup |
| Frozen pesto (optional) | 1/3 cup |
| Pimientos (or red fried peppers) | 1 jar (drained) |
| Olive oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 208.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 19 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 56.4 mg |
| Sodium | 308.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2.6 g |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugar | 1.6 g |
| Protein | 7.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
Begin by softening the cream cheese in a bowl. Add 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese and blend until smooth and well combined. This creamy mixture forms the base of your spread. -
Prepare the Peppers:
In a small pan, heat approximately 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the pimientos (or red fried peppers) and sauté them for a few seconds, just long enough to soften them. Be careful not to let them brown. Once softened, remove the peppers from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Let them cool while you assemble the rest of the spread. -
Layer the Spread:
Take a 9-inch quiche dish or a similar oven-safe dish and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, layer 1/3 cup of pesto sauce on top of the cream cheese mixture, followed by the jar of pimientos (or the sautéed peppers). Add 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, then top with the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the spread is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the spread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with crackers, sliced Italian bread, or Italian toast (Nonni’s Italian toast is a fantastic choice!). -
Optional Make-Ahead Tip:
If you’re looking to save time, you can prepare this spread a day ahead. Simply assemble the layers, cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The next day, all you need to do is bake and serve. It’s an easy way to prep for parties or gatherings.
Recipe Notes
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Frozen Pesto: If you’re using frozen pesto, this recipe is a great way to utilize those leftover pesto cubes. Not only are they perfect for this spread, but they can also be used to enhance pasta sauces or add flavor to soups.
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Variations: Feel free to get creative with this spread. You could add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra heat.
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Perfect Pairings: Serve this spread with crispy crackers or warm, toasted Italian bread. It’s a versatile appetizer that pairs well with a variety of beverages, including wine, sparkling water, or iced tea.
This Italian Layered Spread is a great example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re making it for a family snack or a party, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing spread that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
