Short, Catchy Intro

So you want pizza but also want a dip because adulting sometimes means sharing chips not entire pies. Enter Hawaiian Pizza Dip, the ultimate snack that wears two hats: pizza and party food. It melts, it bubbles, it tastes like sweet pineapple met salty ham and they decided to start a band.

If you like dips that steal the show, you might also dig my steak queso rice recipe which is basically snack-level genius. Ready to whip up something that makes people say wow without needing a culinary degree? Let us go.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

It hits sweet and savory at the same time. Pineapple? Yes. Ham? Yes. Cheese? Obviously yes.
It takes minimal effort. Mix, bake, eat. That is a full meal plan in three verbs.
It is idiot proof. Even if you overthink things, the oven covers most sins.
It plays well with chips, bread, veggies, or your own questionable life choices.
It makes you look thoughtful at parties while actually being lazy. Win win.

This recipe works for game day, casual get togethers, or a solo binge-watch session where you need a dip that actually respects your time. Want to impress your friends with minimal dread? Do this.

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 oz cream cheese, softened. Let it hang out on the counter for a bit.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Because pizza is basically cheese therapy.
1/2 cup diced ham. Use good ham, not the sad mystery stuff.
1/2 cup diced pineapple. Fresh or canned, your call.
1/4 cup chopped green onions. For color and mild sass.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Garlic freshens the vibe.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Keep it simple, keep it tasty.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating matters. Do not skip this.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, ham, pineapple, green onions, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything looks like it belongs together.
Spread the mixture in a baking dish. Use a shallow dish so everything bakes evenly.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. You want bubbly with a little browning on top.
Serve warm with tortilla chips or sliced baguette. Bring napkins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Thinking you do not need to preheat the oven. Rookie move. Heat is important.
Overcrowding the dish. Too thick and the center stays cold. Keep it spread out.
Using cold cream cheese. It clumps and makes you sad. Soften it first.
Skimping on cheese. This is a pizza dip. Be brave.
Forgetting to drain your canned pineapple if you use it. Wet dip equals soggy chips.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Want to switch things up? Cool. Try these swaps.

No ham or vegetarian? Use diced bell peppers or mushrooms. They add texture and personality. Also works if you just forgot to buy meat.
Out of mozzarella? Try provolone or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a sharper kick.
Hate pineapple controversy? Fine. Use chopped tomatoes or roasted red peppers. Still tasty, less debate.
Want smoky flavor? Swap ham for diced smoked turkey or smoked ham if you can get it.
Craving more herbs? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh basil on top after baking for freshness.

PS FYI adding a splash of pineapple juice to the mix is unnecessary and messy. Keep the fruit diced and drained. If you want more dip ideas, I also like the tangy twist in my banana pepper chicken dip which pairs well with a beer and bad reality TV.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q Why not use low fat cream cheese?
A You can, but the dip will lose some creaminess and luxe factor. If you are counting calories, sure. If you want decadence, full fat wins.

Q Can I make this ahead of time?
A Yes. Mix it, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Warm it up in the oven until bubbly when you are ready.

Q Can I use canned ham?
A Yes. Just dice it well. Fresh slices or leftover holiday ham both work beautifully.

Q Is pineapple really supposed to be on pizza or in dip?
A Some will say no with passion. I say yes with cheese. This dip celebrates the sweet and savory duet.

Q Can I freeze it?
A Technically yes, but the texture changes. Freeze only if you need to. Reheat slowly and stir.

Q What do I serve it with besides chips?
A Sliced baguette, pita wedges, veggie sticks, or crackers. Honestly, your hands and a spoon work too.

Q How spicy can I make it?
A Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce after baking. Keep it balanced.

Final Thoughts

There you have it. Hawaiian Pizza Dip: the love child of lazy and delicious. It melts like a dream, tastes like sunshine, and comes together without drama. Remember to soften your cream cheese, spread the mixture evenly, and bake until bubbly. That is literally the recipe for success.

Make it for friends, family, or yourself. Dip responsibly. IMO you deserve a snack that feels like a treat without requiring a whole production.

Conclusion

Want inspiration for more outrageous fair and festival food ideas while you snack on this dip? Check out this fun write up on the latest state fair eats in Minnesota in 2025 at Minnesota State Fair food reviews.