Looking for the perfect appetizer? Whipped Ricotta Cheese Dip is just what you're craving! It’s easy to make and goes great with crostini, crackers, and fresh veggies. This creamy dip will elevate your snack game, especially during the holiday season!

Ricotta Cheese Dip on crostini topped with tomatoes and basil.

Great Appetizer for Any Occasion

Creamy and Delicious - Ricotta dip is super smooth and creamy! One bite and you won't be able to stop dipping.

Quick and Easy - Needs only a few ingredients and ready in a flash! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick snack, it’s truly irresistible.

Crowd Pleaser - Whipped ricotta goes with everything from crackers and crostini to fresh vegetables on a charcuterie board. It's even great as a sandwich spread!

Ricotta Cheese Dip with Tomatoes on top.

Whenever I want a simple snack that's packed with flavor, I make Ricotta Cheese Dip. It's got everything you love in an appetizer; including fresh basil, grated parmesan and sautéed tomatoes with garlic. Oh my!

It tastes similar to Whipped Feta Dip, but has a zesty flavor. Try it with Cheese Stuffed Garlic Bread, or a loaf of freshly baked Irish Soda Bread to get the party started!

I love to serve this spread at Christmas because the colors of red and green are perfect for the holidays. It's also a light and breezy dip for summer cookouts and Girl's Night Out with a glass of strawberry sangria.

Ingredient Notes

Whipped Ricotta Dip on Crostini is an impressive appetizer with simple ingredients that will cause folks to beg for the recipe! Find quantities in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this page.

baguette - a long thin loaf of bread cut into slices
extra virgin olive oil - use the best oil you can find
cherry tomatoes - their smaller size yields great flavor
garlic cloves - adds an extra punch to the ricotta
kosher salt - can use flaky sea salt if desired
black pepper - cracked pepper or peppercorns works well
ricotta - purchase full fat-whole milk ricotta for best results
parmesan cheese - freshly grated tastes amazing
honey - a drizzle of honey adds a nice touch on top
lemon zest - brightens up this recipe
red pepper flakes - gives the ricotta a nice bit of heat
fresh basil leaves - julienned for texture and flavor

Ingredients needed to make ricotta cheese dip.

Instructions

STEP 1: Slice a baguette and place the slices of bread on a sheet pan or baking sheet. Use a pastry brush to brush both sides of the slices of bread with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Bake in a 350ºF oven for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly golden brown.

STEP 2: In a skillet add the tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Sauté on low for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes are soft and blister. Remove the tomatoes from the heat.

STEP 3: In the food processor or mixer, add the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, honey, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Blend on medium for 2-3 minutes or until the dip is smooth and creamy.

Ingredients added to food processor for ricotta dip.

Whipped ricotta dip in a food processor.

STEP 4: Transfer the whipped ricotta to a serving plate. Spoon tomatoes on the top of the whipped ricotta. Top the whipped ricotta with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, cracked black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Variations

Try other toppers like green onions, sun-dried tomatoes, shelled pistachios and various types of jams.
Substitute hot honey for regular honey on top.
Add cottage cheese to the mixture for extra protein.

Single crostini topped with ricotta dip and tomato.

What to Serve with Ricotta Cheese Dip

Creamy whipped ricotta dip goes great with lots of dippers and sides. Serve it in a pretty bowl surrounded by these tasty accompaniments...

Breads: baguette slices, warm pita, garlic breadsticks, crusty bread
Crackers & Chips: crostini, pita chips, crispy crackers, tortilla chips
Vegetables: carrot sticks, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper strips, celery sticks, radishes, zucchini rounds

Tips for Success

Choose High-Quality Ricotta
The highlight of this dish is ricotta cheese, so pick a fresh, high-quality brand for the best texture. If possible, use full fat-whole milk ricotta for richness.

Season Generously
Ricotta is mild, so don’t skimp on seasonings! Garlic, fresh herbs, plus a pinch of salt and pepper brightens the flavor. Add a drizzle of honey and olive oil for added depth.