Baked Goat Cheese Dip is a creamy, warm, and tangy appetizer that always gets everyone’s attention. This dish features soft goat cheese baked until golden and slightly gooey, often combined with herbs, garlic, and a touch of olive oil for extra flavor. The result is a rich and inviting dip that’s perfect for sharing.
I love making this dip when friends come over because it feels fancy but is so easy to prepare. My favorite part is watching everyone eagerly scoop up the warm cheese with crusty bread or crunchy crackers—it’s a total crowd-pleaser every time. A little tip: try adding some honey or roasted red peppers on top for a sweet contrast that really brightens the flavors.
Serving it straight from the oven keeps the cheese perfectly melted and soft, making the experience extra cozy and satisfying. I always pair it with a crisp salad or fresh veggies to balance the richness. This dip has a way of bringing people together, encouraging relaxed conversation and sharing, which is exactly why I keep returning to it for casual get-togethers.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Goat Cheese
- This is the star of the dip with its tangy and creamy flavor. If you can’t find goat cheese, try cream cheese mixed with a bit of feta for a similar tanginess.
- Cream Cheese & Sour Cream
- These add extra creaminess. You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
- Fresh Sage
- Sage gives a nice earthy note. If you don’t have sage, try fresh basil or thyme; both pair well with goat cheese.
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Roasted cherry tomatoes bring sweetness and a juicy burst. Grape tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes (rehydrated) can also work here.
- Bread for Serving
- Toasted baguette slices or crostini are perfect for dipping. Gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks are good if you want a gluten-free option.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy and Golden Baked Goat Cheese Dip?
Getting the right texture means you want the cheese mixture smooth and creamy, and the top golden but not dried out. Here’s how:
- Soften cheeses well before mixing to avoid lumps and help blend the flavors.
- Cook the cherry tomatoes just enough to soften and blister, so they add moisture but don’t make the dip watery.
- Spread the cheese evenly in the baking dish and top with the tomatoes for even baking.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until edges are lightly browned and the center is hot, about 20-25 mins.
- Watch closely near the end to prevent overbaking, which can dry the dip out.
I like to remove the dip as soon as the edges brown and it’s heated through for silky cheese that’s easy to scoop. Adding fresh herbs after baking keeps the flavors bright and fresh. Serve it hot so the cheese stays soft and spreadable!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small oven-safe baking dish – perfect for even baking and easy serving right from oven to table.
- Mixing bowl – to combine the cheeses and herbs smoothly without mess.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you spread the cheese mixture evenly and scrape the bowl clean.
- Small skillet – ideal for lightly cooking the cherry tomatoes before baking.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping fresh herbs and slicing bread or crostini.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap fresh sage for rosemary or thyme for different herbal notes that complement goat cheese well.
- Add a drizzle of honey on top before baking for a touch of sweetness that balances the tangy cheese.
- Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to give the dip a salty, savory kick.
- Toss in some cooked spinach or artichoke hearts for extra veggies and a heartier dip.
How to Make Baked Goat Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dip:
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (sage or basil), for garnish
For Serving:
- Baguette or crostini slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10–15 minutes for preparation, plus 20–25 minutes for baking. So, from start to finish, you’ll spend around 35–40 minutes before you get to enjoy this creamy, warm dip with your favorite bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Dip Mixture:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, and finely chopped fresh sage. Mix everything well until the texture is smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cooking the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, heat the olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they blister and soften—this usually takes about 5 minutes. This step brings out a wonderful sweetness and enhances their flavor.
3. Baking the Dip:
Transfer your cheese mixture into a small oven-safe baking dish, spreading it evenly. Spoon the cooked cherry tomatoes on top, then place the dish in your oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is hot and bubbly and the edges start to brown lightly.
4. Finishing Touches and Serving:
Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and garnish it with fresh herbs like sliced sage or basil for a bright kick. Serve the dip warm with toasted baguette slices or crostini, perfect for scooping up that creamy goodness.
Can I use frozen goat cheese for this dip?
It’s best to use fresh, softened goat cheese for a smooth texture. If using frozen, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and let it come to room temperature before mixing.
Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix the cheeses and herbs, then store in the baking dish covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add the tomatoes and bake just before serving for the best freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I add other ingredients to customize this dip?
Absolutely! Try adding roasted red peppers, olives, or spinach to mix up the flavors and add extra texture.