Baked Goat Cheese Marinara

Name: Baked Goat Cheese Marinara
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz goat cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Soulful Supper Recipes

Experience the delightful combination of creamy goat cheese and tangy marinara sauce in this easy-to-make dish.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-22T21:02:28.213Z

This Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is a perfect appetizer or side dish that's sure to impress your guests.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy goat cheese paired with savory marinara sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Great for entertaining or as a delicious snack

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is a culinary delight that showcases the wonderful contrast between creamy and tangy flavors. The creamy goat cheese melts beautifully, creating a luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with the robust marinara sauce. As the cheeses meld with the rich tomato base, each bite delivers a satisfying burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds craving more.

The addition of fresh herbs like basil and parsley elevates this dish, adding a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese. When combined with the garlic-infused marinara, each component harmonizes, making this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the sauce and the creamy white cheese create an inviting presentation, perfect for any occasion.

Versatile and Easy to Prepare

One of the best aspects of Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is its versatility. This dish can easily be served as a main course, a side dish, or even an appetizer for gatherings. It’s ideal for parties, where guests can enjoy a warm, cheesy dip with crusty bread or crispy crackers. Additionally, it’s a fantastic option for cozy weeknight dinners, requiring minimal prep time and effort.

With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. The ease of preparation means you can whip it up in under an hour, leaving you with more time to spend with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is a go-to dish that never disappoints.

Pairing Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Marinara

2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Goat Cheese

8 oz goat cheese, softened
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Combine all ingredients and prepare to bake!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Marinara

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine Goat Cheese and Herbs

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese with chopped basil and parsley until well mixed.

Assemble the Dish

Spread the marinara sauce in a baking dish and dollop the goat cheese mixture on top.

Bake the Dish

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired, and serve warm with bread or crackers.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Goat Cheese Marinara!

Tips for Perfecting Your Marinara

To achieve a truly flavorful marinara sauce, consider making your own from scratch using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices. This allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. If you're short on time, however, a high-quality store-bought marinara works just as well, especially when enhanced with fresh garlic and herbs.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with additional seasonings, such as crushed red pepper or a splash of balsamic vinegar, to elevate your marinara. The key is to taste as you go, adjusting the flavors until they meet your expectations. A well-seasoned marinara will be the foundation of this delightful dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is easy and convenient. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is simple; just place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, the flavors can actually deepen after resting, making leftovers a tasty option for lunch or dinner. Just be sure to keep the goat cheese creamy by not overcooking during reheating. Serve with fresh bread or crackers to enjoy the experience all over again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute with cream cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinara and cheese mixture ahead of time and bake just before serving.

→ What can I serve with Baked Goat Cheese Marinara?

It pairs well with crusty bread, crostini, or vegetable sticks.