3-Ingredient Baked Goat Cheese Dip Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Quantities will automatically adjust for different serving sizes, but cooking times and steps should remain the same. Keep in mind that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 (8 ounce) log of goat cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• teaspoon kosher or sea salt (optional)
• cup fresh basil, cut into ribbons

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375F (190C).
2. Press the goat cheese into a small baking dish, shaping it to fit and leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Carefully spoon the marinara sauce around the border of the goat cheese, covering the edges but leaving the center exposed. Sprinkle with salt if desired.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the goat cheese is soft and warm, and the marinara sauce is bubbling.
5. Remove from the oven and finish by sprinkling the fresh basil over the top before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 216
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 29mg
• Sodium: 837mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 12g
• Vitamin C: 3mg
• Calcium: 116mg
• Iron: 2mg
• Potassium: 442mg

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data; consult a healthcare professional for medically restrictive diets.

The Story Behind 3-Ingredient Baked Goat Cheese Dip

Baked goat cheese has long been a symbol of simple yet elegant cuisine. Its roots trace back to Mediterranean traditions, particularly in France and Italy, where fresh goat cheese was commonly paired with tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil. The contemporary 3-ingredient version, combining goat cheese, marinara sauce, and fresh basil, is a modern American adaptation that celebrates convenience without compromising flavor. This easy-to-make dip became popular in home kitchens in the early 2000s, as more cooks sought quick, crowd-pleasing appetizers.

Regional Characteristics

While goat cheese is produced worldwide, this particular dish reflects a fusion of Italian and American culinary sensibilities. In the U.S., it is often baked in small individual dishes or shared family-style in a single serving dish. Regional variations might include the addition of local cheeses, roasted peppers, or a drizzle of honey in Southern states, while coastal regions might serve it with crusty artisanal bread or seasonal vegetables. The emphasis remains on balancing the creamy texture of the goat cheese with the acidity of tomato sauce and the freshness of herbs.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional hot cheese dips that often incorporate multiple cheeses, heavy cream, or thickening agents, this dip stands out for its minimalism and focus on pure flavors. The goat cheese provides a tangy creaminess, the marinara adds a bright, acidic contrast, and the basil gives a fragrant herbal note. Compared to baked brie or pimento cheese dips, the goat cheese version is lighter, less fatty, and offers a more pronounced, distinctive taste profile that appeals to gourmet and casual eaters alike.

Where It Is Commonly Served

This dip is frequently featured at dinner parties, wine tastings, and casual gatherings. It pairs beautifully with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh vegetables. In restaurants, it often appears as a starter or small plate in Italian-American or contemporary American menus. Its simplicity and visual appeal make it a favorite for both home cooks and chefs aiming for a dish that is elegant yet approachable.

Interesting Facts

• The dish requires only three main ingredients but can be customized endlessly with toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or pine nuts.
• Goat cheese, also known as chvre, has been made for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
• Contrary to popular belief, goat cheese does not taste strongly goaty to most people; its flavor is mild, tangy, and creamy, especially when baked.
• Some chefs serve this dip with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a sweet-savory dimension.
• Baking the cheese softens its texture while intensifying its natural flavor, making it ideal for dipping or spreading.

FAQ about 3-Ingredient Baked Goat Cheese Dip Recipe

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