🧀🍅 Three-Cheese Tomato Bruschetta Dip
Description
This Three-Cheese Tomato Bruschetta Dip is a warm, savory appetizer bursting with cheesy goodness and fresh Mediterranean flavors. Goat cheese, mozzarella, and cream cheese blend into a smooth and creamy base, layered with garlicky tomatoes and aromatic basil. Serve it bubbling hot with toasted baguette slices or crunchy tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing starter or game-day snack.
🛒 Ingredients
- 8 oz. goat cheese, softened to room temperature
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (cherry or Roma tomatoes recommended)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
- Tortilla chips or sliced baguette, for serving
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the goat cheese, cream cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella until smooth.
- Spread the cheese mixture into a small baking dish (about 8×8 inches or similar).
- In a separate bowl, toss diced tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Spoon the tomato mixture over the cheese layer evenly.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on the edges.
- Cool slightly before serving with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips.
🍴 Servings
- Makes 6 servings as an appetizer.
🧾 Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
💡 Notes & Tips
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dip a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Cheese Swaps: Try ricotta instead of cream cheese for a lighter version, or add Parmesan for an extra savory hit.
- Tomatoes: Drain excess juice from the diced tomatoes to prevent a watery dip.
- Add-ons: Sprinkle with pine nuts or a balsamic glaze drizzle for a gourmet touch.
🌟 Benefits
- High in Protein: Thanks to the cheese trio.
- Rich in Calcium: Great for bone health.
- Fresh Ingredients: Tomatoes and basil provide antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, potlucks, or casual family nights.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make this dip without goat cheese?
A: Yes! You can substitute goat cheese with more cream cheese or use feta for a slightly tangy alternative.
Q: Is it good served cold?
A: It’s best served warm so the cheeses are melty and smooth. If served cold, the texture becomes more firm—still tasty but different.
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil is best, but if needed, use 1 tsp dried basil. Add it to the tomato mixture and let it sit to rehydrate before baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.