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Turkish Spicy Baked Cheese Dip (Hot Peynir Ezmesi)

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  • Author: Emma Delaney
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Turkish
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A spicy, creamy Turkish cheese dip made with a blend of cheeses, roasted peppers, and warm spices, baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for dipping crusty bread or serving as part of a mezze spread.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup kasseri or mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup roasted red pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or red pepper flakes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh mint or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine feta, kasseri or mozzarella, cream cheese, roasted red pepper, garlic, olive oil, Aleppo pepper, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a small oven-safe skillet or baking dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
  5. Remove from the oven, drizzle with extra olive oil if desired, and garnish with chopped mint or parsley.
  6. Serve hot with crusty bread or flatbread for dipping.

Notes

  • Substitute kasseri with mozzarella or mild provolone if unavailable.
  • Use more or less Aleppo pepper to adjust heat to taste.
  • For added richness, stir in a spoonful of labneh or sour cream before baking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg