Description
This delicious Baked Goat Cheese Dip combines creamy goat cheese with a savory tomato mixture seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and balsamic vinegar. Warmed to bubbling perfection in the oven, it’s perfect for serving with toasted slices of crusty bread for an irresistible appetizer or snack that’s both flavorful and comforting.
Ingredients
Baked Goat Cheese Dip
- 8 ounces goat cheese (log)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Toasted Bread
- 1 loaf bread (French, Italian, sourdough, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×6-inch rectangular pan or a 9×5-inch glass or ceramic loaf pan. Avoid using a metal pan to ensure even baking.
- Mix Tomato Base: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup marinara sauce, 15 ounces diced tomatoes, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir to blend all ingredients well.
- Layer Ingredients: Pour half of the tomato mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Place the goat cheese log in the center, then pour the remaining tomato mixture evenly over the goat cheese.
- Add Finishing Touches: Drizzle 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar followed by 1 tablespoon olive oil over the top of the goat cheese and tomato mixture. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley evenly on top.
- Bake the Dip: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes until the dip is bubbly and heated through.
- Prepare Bread for Toasting: While the dip is baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice your chosen bread into individual serving-sized pieces.
- Toast the Bread: Arrange the bread slices on a large baking sheet. Brush the tops evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Bake for about 8 minutes until the bread is toasted but still soft enough to hold the dip without crumbling.
- Serve Warm: Remove the goat cheese dip from the oven and serve it warm alongside the toasted bread for dipping and spreading.
Notes
- Do not use a metal pan for baking the dip as it may affect the texture and cooking time.
- Adjust the baking time if you prefer a firmer or softer dip consistency.
- The bread should be toasted enough to hold the goat cheese but still soft for easy dipping.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor; you can substitute with fresh basil if preferred.
- Leftover dip can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
