Name: Goat Cheese and Marinara Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean / Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 8 oz goat cheese log; 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or good-quality jarred); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish); 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Crusty bread, crackers, or pita for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dip is irresistibly creamy with a balance of tangy goat cheese and savory tomato flavors. It takes just minutes to prepare, bakes beautifully, and feels both rustic and gourmet. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing game-day snacks, or looking for a quick appetizer, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Goat cheese log
Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Crusty bread, crackers, or pita for serving

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread goat cheese evenly in a small oven-safe baking dish.
Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add marinara sauce and simmer for a few minutes.
Pour the marinara over the goat cheese.
Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve hot with bread or crackers.

Servings and timing

Serves 6–8 people.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Herb-Infused: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the goat cheese before baking.
Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top for extra melty goodness.
Spicy Kick: Stir chopped jalapeños or chili flakes into the marinara.
Mediterranean Twist: Top with olives and sun-dried tomatoes before baking.
Layered Dip: Add a layer of ricotta or cream cheese under the goat cheese for extra creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly again.
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the cheese can change.

FAQs

Can I use another cheese instead of goat cheese?

Yes, cream cheese or ricotta makes a milder substitute, but goat cheese gives the best tang.

Can I use jarred marinara?

Yes, a good-quality jarred sauce works perfectly for convenience.

Do I need to soften the goat cheese first?

No, it softens as it bakes, but letting it sit at room temperature helps spread it evenly.

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What’s the best bread for dipping?

A crusty baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough pairs beautifully.

Can I add meat to this dip?

Yes, crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef can be stirred into the marinara.

Is this dip gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread.

Can I make it spicier?

Yes, add chili flakes, hot sauce, or spicy marinara.

Can I cook it in a skillet instead of a baking dish?

Yes, a cast-iron skillet works well for both cooking and serving.

How do I make it look fancy for guests?

Top with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or shaved Parmesan.

Conclusion

Goat Cheese and Marinara Dip is a quick, flavorful appetizer that’s creamy, tangy, and full of rich tomato goodness. With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can serve up a warm, crowd-pleasing dip that’s perfect for any occasion.