Garlic Goat Cheese Dip Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Goat Cheese dip is a creamy, savory spread that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and tangy goat cheese. Perfect for parties or a cozy snack, it pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables or crusty bread.

Ingredients

• 1 head of garlic
• 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh vegetables or bread, for serving

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Wrap it in aluminum foil and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Step 3: Place the wrapped garlic in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the cloves are soft and golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
4. Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and remaining olive oil.
5. Step 5: Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to the mixture.
6. Step 6: Stir in the fresh thyme, salt, and pepper, adjusting to your taste.
7. Step 7: Use a hand mixer or a food processor to blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.
8. Step 8: Spoon the dip into a serving dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Step 9: If desired, garnish with additional thyme leaves or a drizzle of olive oil.
10. Step 10: Serve warm or at room temperature; it’s delicious either way!

Tips & Variations

• For a tangier flavor, add a splash of lemon juice before blending.
• Try substituting fresh rosemary for thyme for a different herbal note.
• To make a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.
• Serve with pita chips or crackers in addition to fresh vegetables and bread.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or allow it to come to room temperature before serving to restore its creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip in advance?

Yes, you can make the dip a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Can I use pre-roasted garlic or garlic paste instead of roasting fresh garlic?

While pre-roasted garlic or garlic paste can work in a pinch, roasting fresh garlic enhances the flavor and gives the dip a sweeter, milder garlic taste.

Garlic Goat Cheese Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 236 reviews

This creamy and flavorful Garlic Goat Cheese Dip combines the rich tang of goat cheese with the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic. Enhanced with cream cheese, sour cream, and fresh thyme, this versatile dip is perfect for serving with fresh vegetables or crusty bread. Easy to prepare and delicious served warm or at room temperature, it makes an excellent appetizer or party snack.

• Author: Nethan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: About 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 head of garlic
• 8 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

• Fresh vegetables or bread

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting the garlic.
2. Prepare the Garlic: Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the individual cloves. Wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to help it roast evenly and develop a sweet, caramelized flavor.
3. Roast the Garlic: Place the foil-wrapped garlic in the oven and roast for 30-35 minutes or until the cloves are soft, golden, and fragrant. Then remove it carefully and allow it to cool slightly for easier handling.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend together the softened goat cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This creates a creamy base for the dip.
5. Add Roasted Garlic: Squeeze the softened roasted garlic cloves out of their skins directly into the cheese mixture, ensuring you get all the sweet roasted garlic flavor without the tough skins.
6. Seasoning: Stir in the fresh thyme leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.
7. Blend Mixture: Use a hand mixer or food processor to blend all the ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring an even and luscious texture.
8. Transfer to a Serving Dish: Spoon the finished dip into a serving dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula for a nice presentation.
9. Garnish: If desired, garnish with extra fresh thyme leaves or a light drizzle of olive oil for added aroma and visual appeal.
10. Serve Warm or Room Temperature: Serve the dip warm straight away or allow it to come to room temperature. It tastes delicious either way, perfect for dipping fresh vegetables or bread.

Notes

• To soften goat cheese and cream cheese faster, leave them out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
• Use fresh thyme for the best flavor, but dried thyme works well in a pinch.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This dip can also be served chilled if preferred.

Keywords: Garlic Goat Cheese Dip, Roasted Garlic Dip, Creamy Cheese Dip, Appetizer, Party Food, Easy Dip Recipe