A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Appetizer, Sandwich Spread, or Dip – Ready in Minutes
Looking for a flavorful, healthy, and unbelievably quick appetizer or snack? This 5-Minute Roasted Red Pepper Spread is the answer. Rich, creamy, and bursting with smoky, tangy notes, this spread is perfect for crackers, finger sandwiches, veggie platters, or as a sandwich base. You’ll love that it’s made from wholesome ingredients, comes together in a flash, and can be easily made vegan or gluten-free.
Whether you’re looking for a substitute for the famous Kraft red pepper dip, a hot roasted red pepper dip for game day, or an elegant starter for your next dinner party, this homemade version ticks every box.
🧄 Why This Recipe Works
This spread combines:
- The smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers
- The creaminess of cheese or vegan alternatives
- A touch of brightness from lemon juice
- And the depth of garlic, herbs, and optional spice
It’s like a cross between a roasted red pepper hummus and a creamy cheese dip, but lighter and fresher. Perfect for a roasted red pepper appetizer or adding to the best vegetarian sandwiches.
✅ Health Benefits
- Low in saturated fat (especially when made vegan or with light cream cheese)
- Rich in antioxidants from red peppers and garlic
- Naturally gluten-free
- Customizable to suit keto, paleo, vegan, or low-carb diets
This isn’t just a delicious dip — it’s a healthy roasted red pepper spread that fits into a clean eating lifestyle.
🛒 Ingredients (With Notes)
To make this spread in 5 minutes or less, you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted red peppers | 1 jar (12 oz), drained | Use fire-roasted for extra flavor. Homemade or jarred. |
| Cream cheese | ½ cup | Use regular, light, or vegan cream cheese |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Adds richness and smooth texture |
| Garlic | 1 small clove | Raw for pungency, or roasted for mild flavor |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Balances the sweetness of the peppers |
| Smoked paprika | ½ teaspoon | Adds depth; optional but recommended |
| Salt | To taste | Essential for enhancing the flavor |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | Optional | For a spicy kick |
🥣 How To Make Roasted Red Pepper Spread (Step-by-Step)
This recipe could not be simpler — no cooking required, just blend and serve.
🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
If using jarred peppers, drain them well and pat dry with a paper towel. Too much moisture will make the spread runny.
Tip: Want a deeper flavor? Roast your own red peppers by placing them over an open flame or under the broiler until charred, then peel and deseed.
🔹 Step 2: Add Ingredients to Blender
Add the following to your food processor or blender:
- Roasted red peppers
- Cream cheese
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Paprika
- Salt
🔹 Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Pulse for 30–60 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth. If needed, scrape down the sides to ensure even blending.
For a chunkier texture: Pulse instead of blending continuously and stop once the desired texture is reached.
🔹 Step 4: Taste and Adjust
- Add more salt or lemon juice as needed.
- For extra spice, mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes.
- For more tang, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or plant-based sour cream.
🫙 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5–6 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in small containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and stir before serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping before gatherings, holiday meals, or lunchbox fillers.
🍽️ How To Serve Roasted Red Pepper Spread
This versatile dip can be used in dozens of ways. Here are some of the best ideas:
🧀 As a Dip or Appetizer
- Serve with warm pita, crackers, or toasted baguette
- Use as part of a roasted red pepper appetizer platter
- Pair with olives, nuts, and hummus for a Mediterranean mezze vibe
🥪 In Sandwiches
- Spread generously in finger sandwiches for brunch or tea parties
- Add to wraps or grain bowls
- Makes a flavorful layer in best vegetarian sandwiches with grilled veggies and greens
🍝 With Meals
- Swirl into pasta with some reserved pasta water
- Use as a healthy replacement for mayo or aioli
- Dollop on roasted vegetables, grilled tofu, or proteins
🔥 Served Warm (Hot Roasted Red Pepper Dip)
- Pour into a ramekin, sprinkle with vegan mozzarella or parmesan, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- Serve warm with toasted crostini or fresh veggies.
🔁 Recipe Variations
🧀 Roasted Red Pepper Dip with Cream Cheese
Use a full cup of cream cheese for a denser, tangier spread — close to the nostalgic Kraft red pepper dip. Serve cold with crackers or heat until bubbly for a warm dip.
🌶️ Spicy Hot Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Add fresh chili or jalapeño, plus chili oil or extra red pepper flakes for serious heat lovers. Serve with tortilla chips and beer!
🌱 Vegan Roasted Tomato and Red Pepper Dip
Add a few oven-roasted cherry tomatoes and replace cream cheese with cashew cream, tahini, or a plant-based alternative. This makes it a dairy-free, savory, and elegant spread.
🥜 Nutty Red Pepper Spread
Add ¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts before blending for texture and a Mediterranean flavor twist. Pairs well with rustic bread or veggie wraps.
🧄 Garlic-Lovers Version
Roast a full head of garlic and blend it into the spread for a mellow, caramelized flavor. Ideal for garlic lovers.
🧠 Pro Tips
- Dry the peppers: Too much liquid = runny dip. Always pat them dry before blending.
- Don’t over-blend: If you like some texture, pulse instead of pureeing.
- Balance is key: The acid (lemon), fat (cream cheese/olive oil), and seasoning (salt/spices) need to be adjusted to your taste.
- Serve at room temperature: This enhances the creamy texture and flavor.
🥪 Finger Sandwich Idea (Using the Spread)
Need an elegant idea for a tea party or brunch? Try these:
🥬 Spinach & Red Pepper Finger Sandwiches
Ingredients:
- Whole wheat or white bread, crusts removed
- Roasted red pepper spread
- Baby spinach leaves
- Thinly sliced cucumber
- Optional: vegan feta or shredded cheese
Instructions:
- Spread the dip on both bread slices.
- Layer with spinach, cucumber, and optional cheese.
- Press together and cut into finger-sized rectangles.
These elegant finger sandwiches are perfect for showers, holidays, or a light lunch.
🎉 Holiday Appetizer Favorite
This dip makes a fantastic addition to your holiday table:
- Serve alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and olives
- Fill mini phyllo cups for an elevated vegan phyllo recipe
- Spread on crackers and top with herbs for a quick vegan Thanksgiving appetizer
- Add it to your Vegan Christmas food ideas list — guests will love it!
📖 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh red peppers?
Yes, roast them first under the broiler or over an open flame. Peel and seed before blending.
Can this be made nut-free?
Absolutely! Just avoid nut-based cream cheeses or nut add-ins.
How do I make this taste like Kraft Red Pepper Dip?
Use full-fat cream cheese and a pinch of sugar for that nostalgic creamy-tangy flavor. Blend very smooth and chill before serving.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes! Omit the spice, and it’s perfect for kids’ sandwiches or veggie dippers.
💬 Final Thoughts
This 5-Minute Roasted Red Pepper Spread is a powerhouse of flavor with minimal effort. It’s smoky, creamy, tangy, and completely addictive — and can transform from a dip to a sandwich spread to a pasta sauce in seconds. Plus, it’s easy to customize for any dietary preference, from dairy-free to keto.
Once you try this, it will become one of those back-pocket recipes you return to again and again — whether you’re making a last-minute roasted red pepper appetizer, prepping your best vegetarian sandwiches, or crafting elegant vegan finger foods.
