If you're looking for a simple, yet indulgent appetizer that will impress your guests, this Baked Goat Cheese Bruschetta Dip is a must-try. It combines creamy, tangy goat cheese with the freshness of a bruschetta topping, all baked to perfection. Served warm with crispy baguette slices or crackers, it's a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
8 oz goat cheese
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bruschetta Topping:
1 cup cherry tomatoes (diced)
2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped)
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
1 teaspoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix the goat cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper until smooth and well-combined.
Bake the Cheese: Spread the cheese mixture in a small baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is warm and slightly golden on top.
Make the Bruschetta Topping: While the cheese is baking, prepare the bruschetta topping. In a separate bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, balsamic glaze, olive oil, and salt. Stir well.
Assemble & Serve: Once the cheese dip is out of the oven, spoon the bruschetta topping over the warm cheese. Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices or crackers for dipping.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 6-8 servings. The preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and baking takes 15-20 minutes. The total time is about 25-30 minutes.
Variations
Add a Sweet Twist: Drizzle honey over the top of the dip for a sweet-savory combo that enhances the flavors.
Use Fresh Mozzarella: For an extra creamy texture, try adding some fresh mozzarella to the cheese base.
Roasted Garlic: If you're a fan of garlic, try roasting it first for a deeper, milder flavor.
Swap Tomatoes: Try substituting the cherry tomatoes with diced sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
Storage/Reheating
To store leftovers, place the dip in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. The bruschetta topping can be stored separately in the fridge and added on top just before serving.
FAQs
How do I make sure the cheese mixture is smooth?
To ensure the cheese mixture is smooth, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing. You can also use a hand mixer for a fluffier texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute goat cheese with cream cheese or ricotta for a milder flavor, though the taste will be slightly different.
Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving, and prepare the bruschetta topping fresh.
Can I make this dip spicy?
For a spicy kick, try adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the bruschetta topping.
What should I serve with this dip?
I like to serve it with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or even fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.
Conclusion
This Baked Goat Cheese Bruschetta Dip is a perfect combination of creamy, tangy cheese and fresh, zesty toppings. It’s a quick and easy dish to prepare that will become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a party or just enjoying a snack, this dip is guaranteed to satisfy!
Recipe:
Baked Goat Cheese Bruschetta Dip
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Goat Cheese Bruschetta Dip is the perfect appetizer, combining tangy goat cheese with a fresh, zesty tomato basil topping. Baked to perfection and served warm with crispy baguette slices or crackers, this indulgent dip is guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Easy to make in just 30 minutes, it's an irresistible blend of creamy and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Dip:
8 oz goat cheese
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Bruschetta Topping:
1 cup cherry tomatoes (diced)
2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped)
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
1 teaspoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
-
Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix the goat cheese, cream cheese, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper until smooth and well-combined.
-
Bake the Cheese: Spread the cheese mixture in a small baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is warm and slightly golden on top.
-
Make the Bruschetta Topping: While the cheese is baking, prepare the bruschetta topping. In a separate bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, balsamic glaze, olive oil, and salt. Stir well.
-
Assemble & Serve: Once the cheese dip is out of the oven, spoon the bruschetta topping over the warm cheese. Serve immediately with toasted baguette slices or crackers for dipping.
Notes
Tip: You can add honey on top for a sweet-savory twist or fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dip
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8 servings
