Supreme Pizza Dip

Supreme Pizza Dip – I think every cook has their own version of pizza dip.  This one is filled with the toppings you might find on a deluxe or supreme pizza and topped with pepperoni. I really love serving this one since it pleases the pizza lovers and carb counters at the same time.  This dip is delicious served with a variety of veggie dippers, chips, crackers, or cheesy bread sticks.

Another perk, is that it can be made in advance, then covered and refrigerated until the party begins.  Bake it just before serving and serve it while it’s hot and gooey.  It’s easy to make, and there’s never a drop left over.

Ingredients you’ll need:
1 medium sweet onion, small dice
1 small green pepper, small dice
4 oz mushrooms, diced [your preference]
olive oil
salt & black pepper, to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb spicy or mild Italian sausage
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp dry Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp oregano
1 [16] oz pizza sauce
1 [16 oz] whipped cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 [4] oz can sliced black olives, drained
3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
28-30 slices pepperoni

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F.  Spritz an 8 x 12 inch baking dish or 12 inch round baking dish with cooking spray, set aside.  On the stovetop over medium-high heat, cook the onion, green pepper and diced mushrooms in a few drizzles of olive oil.  Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute.  Add the sausage and cook until no pink remains. Drain the excess fat from the pan.  Next add the seasonings, pizza sauce, whipped cream cheese and grated Parmesan. Cook over low heat just until the cream cheese melts and blends with the sauce.  Remove from the heat and add 1 1/2 cup shredded cheese, sliced black olives.  Adjust the salt if needed to your taste.  Stir well.

Pour into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.  Arrange the pepperoni slices over the cheese.  Bake for 30 minutes until the cheese melts and the dip is bubbly.  Serve immediately.  Yield: 20-24 servings