This basil-scented baked cheese dip is one of our favorite things to serve friends. Serve this with toasted bread slices, but you could also serve alongside crisp, cool vegetables. When the cheese melts, it turns spreadable. There will be a little water released from the cheese after baking and siting a little – don’t be worried if it separated a little after baking. It is still completely delicious!
1 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, coarsely grated (about 2 cups)
12 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, coarsely grated (about 3 cups)
1 cup basil leaves, chopped, plus more for serving
1 small tomato, diced
1 baguette, sliced and toasted
Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
Mix sour cream, mustard powder, and thyme in a large bowl then stir in the mozzarella, Monterey jack and the cup of chopped basil leaves. Add to a 2-quart baking dish or pie dish. Bake until the cheese has melted and is bubbling, 10 to 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, add bread slices, in one layer, to a baking sheet. Slide into the oven and bake 6 to 8 minutes until toasted.
Once baked, turn oven to broil and broil the cheese dip until golden brown on top, about 2 minutes. Serve warm with tomato and extra basil leaves scattered on top and alongside toasted bread slices.