Baked Goat Cheese Marinara
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in this creamy and savory Baked Goat Cheese Marinara, a delightful dish perfect for sharing or as a comforting main course.
This Baked Goat Cheese Marinara combines the rich flavors of goat cheese and marinara sauce, creating a harmonious blend that will please your taste buds. Perfect for a cozy night in or entertaining guests!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy goat cheese that adds depth to the marinara sauce
- Perfectly baked for a bubbly, golden crust
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
- Versatile dish that pairs well with crusty bread or pasta
A Perfect Blend of Flavors
Baked Goat Cheese Marinara combines the rich creaminess of goat cheese with the tangy depth of marinara sauce. This dish is a wonderful harmony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The goat cheese melts beautifully, creating a luscious texture that enhances the marinara's robust flavor. Each bite is an experience, as the spices from the marinara mingle with the unique taste of goat cheese, making it a memorable dish to share or enjoy solo.
The addition of garlic powder and dried oregano in the marinara sauce not only elevates the flavor but also adds an aromatic quality that fills your kitchen with warmth. This comforting dish is perfect for cozy evenings, and it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for gatherings with friends and family.
Ease of Preparation
One of the standout features of this Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal that looks and tastes like a gourmet dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The steps are straightforward: prepare the marinara, assemble the layers, and pop it in the oven. It’s an easy recipe that even beginner cooks can master, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is incredibly versatile, making it easy to pair with a variety of sides. For a classic experience, serve it with warm, crusty bread that can be used to scoop up the creamy cheese and marinara. The bread adds a delightful crunch and complements the dish perfectly.
If you’re looking to make it a heartier meal, consider serving it over a bed of pasta. The marinara sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, making each bite satisfying. You can also add a simple side salad for a fresh contrast to the richness of the baked cheese.
Ingredients
For the Marinara
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Goat Cheese
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Enjoy your delicious Baked Goat Cheese Marinara!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Marinara Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
Assemble the Dish
In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Crumble the goat cheese over the sauce, then pour the remaining marinara sauce on top.
Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the marinara and goat cheese.
Bake
Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Pair this dish with a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Nutritional Information
This Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is not only delicious but can also be part of a balanced diet. Goat cheese is lower in calories and fat compared to many other cheeses, offering a good source of protein and calcium. The marinara sauce, typically made from tomatoes, provides vitamins C and A, along with antioxidants that are beneficial for your health.
Keep in mind that portion control is essential, especially since this dish is rich and creamy. Enjoy it as part of a meal that includes vegetables and whole grains for a well-rounded dining experience.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing Baked Goat Cheese Marinara is simple. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
When reheating, it’s best to do so in the oven to maintain the creamy texture of the cheese. Simply cover it with foil and warm it at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious as this may alter the texture slightly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with feta or mozzarella for a different flavor.
→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish and refrigerate until ready to bake.
→ What can I serve with Baked Goat Cheese Marinara?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or a fresh salad.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Baked Goat Cheese Marinara
Indulge in this creamy and savory Baked Goat Cheese Marinara, a delightful dish perfect for sharing or as a comforting main course.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Marinara
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Goat Cheese
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Crumble the goat cheese over the sauce, then pour the remaining marinara sauce on top.
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the marinara and goat cheese.
Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot with crusty bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g