This warm and cheesy dip combines baked goat cheese with fresh tomatoes and herbs for a tasty treat! It’s great for sharing when you have friends over—or keeping all to yourself!
Honestly, I love how simple it is to whip this up. Just mix everything, bake, and serve with crunchy bread! Your taste buds will thank you later. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Goat Cheese: Fresh goat cheese (chèvre) is the star here. It has a tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes. If you can’t find goat cheese, cream cheese, or ricotta can be used, but the taste will change slightly—still delicious, though!
Cherry Tomatoes: They bring sweetness and acidity to the dish. You could use grape tomatoes instead, or even canned diced tomatoes in a pinch, but fresh is definitely best for flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice punch. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a substitute—just use about 1/4 teaspoon, as it’s more concentrated.
Baguette: I love using a baguette, as its crusty texture adds great crunch! You can swap it with pita chips or other bread like ciabatta or sourdough if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Roasted Tomatoes?
The key to roasting tomatoes is to let them get nice and caramelized. Here’s how:
- Make sure to cut the tomatoes in half; this helps them release their juices and roast better.
- Toss them with olive oil and seasonings. This adds flavor and helps them brown.
- Keep an eye on them while they bake; you want them soft and slightly roasted, not mushy.
Let them cool for just a minute before adding them to the dip; this helps keep the flavors fresh!
Baked Goat Cheese Bruschetta Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dip:
- 8 oz fresh goat cheese (chèvre)
- 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced for garnish
For Serving:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch slices
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dip takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20–25 minutes to bake, for a total time of around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and easy appetizer, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the dip.
2. Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are well coated and all the seasonings are mixed in.
3. Assemble the Dip:
In a shallow baking dish or ovenproof skillet, spread the goat cheese evenly in a single layer. Then, take the tomato mixture and spoon it evenly over the goat cheese. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the top for added flavor and richness.
4. Bake the Dip:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the goat cheese is hot and just starting to brown around the edges, and the tomatoes are slightly roasted and soft.
5. Toast the Baguette:
While the dip is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the baguette slices in the skillet and toast them until they are golden and crispy on both sides. You can brush a little olive oil on them just before toasting for an extra crunch!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the dip is out of the oven, sprinkle the sliced fresh basil over the top for a burst of flavor. Now, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy the warm dip with the toasted baguette slices for dipping. If you like a little heat, sprinkle on some red pepper flakes!
Enjoy this creamy, tangy, and vibrant appetizer perfect for parties or cozy nights in!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with cream cheese or ricotta. Just note that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Dip?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make the Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the dip ahead of time! Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Else Can I Serve With This Dip?
In addition to toasted baguette slices, you can serve it with pita chips, crackers, or even fresh veggies like bell pepper strips and cucumber for a healthy crunch!
