Cheesy Italian Grinder Dip

Ingredients

  • 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
  • ½ cup diced bell pepper
  • 1 ½ cups sour cream
  • 4 cups pizza blend shredded cheese
  • 1 cup Parmesan/Romano cheese blend
  • ½ tbsp Italian seasoning
  • ¾ tsp garlic salt
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp minced parsley
    1. Preheat oven to 450 F.
    2. In a 10” cast iron skillet add sausage and red pepper. Cook over medium heat until sausage is browned and peppers are tender. Drain if necessary. Reserve ½ cup sausage and pepper mixture for garnish, keep warm.
    3. In a large mixing bowl combine sour cream, cheeses, Italian seasoning, garlic salt, crushed red pepper flakes and 1 tbsp parsley. Stir until well mixed.
    4. Pour cheese mixture on top of sausage and pepper mixture in cast iron skillet. Spread evenly.
    5. Bake at 450 F for 16 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Garnish with ½ cup reserved sausage and pepper mixture and reserved parsley. Serve warm with sturdy crackers, pita chips and or toasted crostini pieces. Small bowls of basil pesto and marinara can also be offered on the side, as well.