Baked Tomato Goat Cheese Dip Ingredients: 2 cups RAGÚ Simply® Traditional Sauce 3 cloves garlic, divided 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped 1/8- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes 1 (10-10.5 oz) log goat cheese, softened 1/4 tsp fresh thyme Kosher salt and pepper, to taste 1 large baguette, sliced on the bias Olive oil, as needed Blistered tomatoes, for garnish (optional) Directions: Prepare the Baking Dish: Position a rack in the upper third and one in the lower third of the oven. Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a small round baking dish with cooking spray. In a small bowl, mix the RAGÚ sauce, grated garlic (2 cloves), half of the chopped basil, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Prepare the Goat Cheese: Form the goat cheese into a ball, then flatten it between two sheets of plastic wrap to form a thick, round disc about 1 inch smaller in diameter than the baking dish. Remove plastic wrap and place the cheese disc in the center of the sauce. Drizzle with 2 tsp olive oil, sprinkle with thyme, and season with kosher salt and fresh pepper. Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the lower third of the oven, uncovered, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the goat cheese is warmed through. Make the Crostini: While the dip bakes, arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle or brush each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Place the baking sheet in the upper third of the oven during the last 10-12 minutes of baking. Flip halfway through for even toasting. Once golden and crispy, rub each slice with a halved garlic clove for added flavor. Serve: Top the dip with the remaining chopped basil and garnish with blistered tomatoes, if desired. Serve warm with crostini on the side. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 6 servings This Baked Tomato Goat Cheese Dip brings a delicious blend of flavors with warm, melted goat cheese nestled in a tangy tomato sauce, accented by fresh basil and a hint of red pepper flakes. Paired with crispy, garlicky crostini, this dip is ideal for a cozy appetizer that’s as beautiful as it is flavorful. The creamy texture of the goat cheese complements the rich tomato sauce, making each bite warm and satisfying. Perfect for gatherings or as an appetizer for fall and winter meals, this dip is easy to prepare and serves beautifully. Garnished with blistered tomatoes and fresh basil, the dip is invitingly rustic. Serve it warm with a side of toasted baguette slices, and watch as guests savor every bite. This dish brings warmth and elegance to any table.
