Let me tell you about my absolute obsession with Baked Feta Dip! This creamy and savory delight is like a warm hug for your taste buds. I first discovered it at a friend’s gathering, and I couldn’t believe how something so simple could pack such incredible flavor. The way the feta cheese softens and mingles with the bursting cherry tomatoes is pure magic! It’s become a staple at my dinner parties and family get-togethers. Everyone just can’t get enough of it! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up—you’ll feel like a gourmet chef in no time. Trust me, whether you’re hosting a crowd or just having a cozy night in, this dip is sure to steal the show. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients for Baked Feta Dip
- 200g feta cheese (block, not crumbled for best melting)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved for easy bursting)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for that rich flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (adds a lovely Mediterranean vibe)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked if you can)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (torn for a burst of freshness)
- 1 baguette, sliced (for dipping and scooping up every bite)
How to Prepare Baked Feta Dip
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to a toasty 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the feta cheese soften perfectly and the tomatoes burst beautifully, creating that luscious dip we all adore. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Assemble the Ingredients
Now, grab a baking dish and place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Surround it with those halved cherry tomatoes, making sure they’re cozy next to the cheese. The tomatoes will add that juicy sweetness we love, and the feta will get all melty—oh, it’s going to be divine!
Season and Bake
Next up, drizzle those beautiful cherry tomatoes and the feta with the olive oil. Then, sprinkle the oregano and black pepper over everything. This is where the magic begins! Pop it in the oven for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the feta should get soft, and the tomatoes will start to burst, releasing their juices into the dish. The aroma will be irresistible!
Finishing Touches
Once it’s out of the oven, let’s bring it to life! Garnish with the torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm with those sliced baguette pieces, and don’t forget to provide a little bowl for scooping up all that creamy goodness. Presentation is key, so arrange everything nicely—your guests will be wowed before they even take a bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for each serving of this scrumptious Baked Feta Dip! Keep in mind that these are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
This dip is not only delightful but also a simple way to enjoy some wholesome ingredients. So, go ahead and indulge a little—you deserve it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make—perfect for those last-minute gatherings!
- Creamy, savory flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Only requires a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Beautifully baked, it’s an impressive appetizer that looks as good as it tastes.
- Great for sharing—pair it with a crusty baguette or crunchy veggies.
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to fancy dinner parties.
Tips for Success
To make your Baked Feta Dip truly shine, always use high-quality feta cheese—it really makes a difference in flavor and texture! If you want a creamier dip, try adding a splash of heavy cream before baking. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so check it a few minutes early. Those tomatoes should be bursting and the feta soft, but you don’t want it to overbake! Lastly, don’t skip the fresh basil—it adds that fresh pop that elevates the whole dish!
Variations of Baked Feta Dip
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this Baked Feta Dip! For a Mediterranean twist, try adding some Kalamata olives or artichoke hearts—yum! You can also experiment with different herbs; fresh thyme or rosemary can bring a lovely aroma to the dish. If you want to add a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños! Feeling veggie-forward? Throw in some sliced bell peppers or zucchini around the feta for extra flavor and color. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Baked Feta Dip, the more, the merrier! I love pairing it with crispy crackers or crunchy pita chips for that perfect texture contrast. Fresh veggie sticks, like carrots and cucumber, are also fantastic for a light and healthy option. And if you really want to elevate the experience, why not enjoy it with a glass of chilled white wine? Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), storing your Baked Feta Dip is super easy. Just let it cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just scoop out what you want and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it for quick reheating, but watch it closely to avoid overcooking. Enjoy that creamy goodness again!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
For tips on how to make the best feta dip, you can visit Food Network for expert advice.
Print
Baked Feta Dip: 5 Irresistibly Creamy Recipes to Savor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and savory dip made with baked feta cheese, perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 200g feta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 baguette, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place feta cheese in a baking dish.
- Add cherry tomatoes around the feta.
- Drizzle olive oil over the feta and tomatoes.
- Sprinkle oregano and black pepper on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes until feta is soft and tomatoes burst.
- Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve with sliced baguette.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Great for parties or as an appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Baked Feta Dip