Superbowl fans require serious snacks for watching the big game. Nobody counts calories or worries about cholesterol or nutrition. It's a one-day food free-for-all. However, most of us want dishes that can either be made ahead or are quick enough to be made at the last minute. This Quick Microwave Pizza Dip is perfect. Not only is it quick, but it can be made a couple of days ahead and microwaved at the last minute. The most important thing, of course, is that it is incredibly good, and will be devoured no matter which team is winning. Served with garlic triangles that are broiled and cut at the last minute, you can't go wrong.

It might be a good idea to make two of these dips, since it is very addicting. Two of the Official Hancock Tasters who were visiting managed to consume most of an entire dip; of course they didn't need to eat dinner afterward, but they said it was worth it. You can vary the topping ingredients, and add a little spice by sprinkling the sauce layer with a few dried red pepper flakes. You can also use your favorite spaghetti sauce – I used a brand that contained green and black olives, and everyone loved it.

12 Servings

4 ounces sliced pepperoni

1 8 oz. package softened cream cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon chopped garlic

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 1/4 cups spaghetti sauce, your favorite kind
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes, (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped green bell pepper
2 tablespoons chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped mushrooms

3 baguettes
1/2 cup butter
2 to 3 tablespoons garlic bread sprinkle

1. Separate the pepperoni slices, stack them, and cut them into quarters; spread them out on a microwave-safe plate that has been lined with paper towels.
2. Place a paper towel loosely on top.
3. Microwave 3-4 minutes or until the pepperoni is hot and starting to crisp. This step eliminates excess grease.
4. Mix the cream cheese with the Italian seasoning and chopped garlic; spread it evenly over the bottom of a glass 10" pie plate or a shallow 9" x 7" glass casserole dish.
5. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese.
6. Spread the spaghetti sauce over the cheese and sprinkle with the crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
7. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Top with the peppers, onions, mushrooms, and pepperoni.
9. If making ahead, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days. Otherwise, place a paper towel on top and microwave 6-8 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.
10. Dippers: Meanwhile, slice the baguettes lengthwise, spread with butter, and sprinkle with the garlic bread sprinkle.
11. Broil until bubbly and golden brown.
12. Cut the bread into 3" slices, then cut each slice diagonally. Serve with the hot dip.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 582 Calories from Fat 275
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 47% Protein 15% Carb. 37%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 31 g
Saturated Fat 17 g
Cholesterol 78 mg
Sodium 1352 mg
Total Carbohydrate 54 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 22 g

Vitamin A 22% Vitamin C 9% Calcium 0% Iron 8%