A warm and flavorful Italian classic, perfect for sharing with fresh or cooked vegetables.

Have you ever sat down at the table and immediately felt that it was going to be a special meal? That’s exactly what Bagna càuda does. The first time I made it, I remember the slow cooking process, the garlic gently softening in milk and the anchovies melting into a rich, creamy sauce. It’s simple, rustic and incredibly flavorful, but most of all it brings people together. Let’s see how to make Bagna càuda.

Traditional Bagna càuda served with vegetables
Traditional Italian Sharing dish

Bagna càuda

Bagna càuda is a traditional Piedmont hot dip made with anchovies, garlic, milk and olive oil, slowly cooked and served with raw or cooked vegetables. A rich and convivial Italian classic.

Prep: Cook time: Total time: Servings: 6 servings Cuisine: Italian Category: Sauces and dips
by Published on

Ingredients

  • Anchovies 300 g
  • Garlic 130 g
  • Milk 200 ml
  • Olive oil 200 ml
  • White wine as needed
  • Mixed vegetables

Tools

  • Saucepan
  • Strainer
  • Wooden spoon
  • Bowl
  • Serving warmer

Instructions

  1. Soak the anchovies in white wine for about 1 hour, then clean them removing bones.
  2. Cook the garlic gently in milk for about 10 minutes without boiling.
  3. Strain the milk and discard the garlic, keeping the flavored milk.
  4. In a saucepan, melt the anchovies over very low heat, stirring continuously.
  5. Slowly add the olive oil while stirring until smooth.
  6. Add the flavored milk and cook gently for about 10 minutes without frying.
  7. Transfer to a serving pot and keep warm.
  8. Serve with raw or cooked vegetables.

Nutritional values (per serving)

Calories
295 kcal
Fat
24 g
Carbohydrates
3 g
Protein
17 g
Sugar
1 g
Fiber
0 g
Sodium
1300 mg
Send me your recipe

Chef’s Tips

Keep the heat low

Never let the sauce fry. Low and slow cooking is the key to a smooth and balanced texture.

Balance the garlic

Cooking garlic in milk helps reduce its sharpness, making the sauce more delicate and enjoyable.

Serve it warm

Always keep Bagna càuda warm while serving to maintain its creamy consistency.

This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)

Privacy Preference Center