Baked Feta Dip Recipe
Baked Feta Dip is a creamy, tangy delight that’s super simple to make and impossible to resist. This dish combines soft, warm feta cheese with juicy, roasted cherry tomatoes and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Baked Feta Dip is a creamy, tangy delight that’s super simple to make and impossible to resist. This dish combines soft, warm feta cheese with juicy, roasted cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of olive oil that melts everything together beautifully. You get that perfect mix of salty, slightly sweet, and buttery flavors, all baked until bubbly and ready to scoop up with bread or veggies.
I love making this dip when I need a quick snack that feels a little fancy but really isn’t. It’s one of those recipes where you just throw everything in a baking dish, pop it in the oven, and come back to a gooey, irresistible treat. I usually add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top to brighten it up and sometimes a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of zing. It’s simple, but it feels so special.
My favorite way to enjoy baked feta dip is with warm, crusty bread or crunchy pita chips, but it’s just as good with carrot sticks or cucumber slices. It’s always a hit at gatherings because everyone loves that creamy cheese mixed with the sweet tomatoes. Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to invite friends over just to share it—I always find myself eating way more than I planned!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: The star of this dip! A block of feta gives a nice tang and creaminess when baked. If you can’t find feta, goat cheese is a good creamy substitute, though it’s milder in flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: Use a mix of red and yellow if you can—they add sweetness and color. If tomatoes aren’t in season, roasted red peppers can be a tasty alternative.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for its rich flavor. If you’re low, any good quality oil like avocado oil works, but olive oil is my favorite here.
Garlic & Herbs: Fresh garlic adds a punch, but garlic powder can stand in if needed. Dried oregano or thyme give earthiness; fresh herbs like basil at the end brighten the whole dish.
How Do You Get the Tomatoes Perfectly Burst and the Feta Smooth?
Balancing the tomatoes and feta in the oven is key to a creamy dip with juicy tomatoes. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Place the feta block in the center of the baking dish, so it cooks evenly.
- Scatter tomatoes around and on top to roast and soften nicely.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes—this melts the feta and bursts the tomatoes, creating gorgeous juicy pockets of flavor.
- Keep the dish uncovered so the cheese firms up slightly on top and the tomatoes caramelize a bit.
- After baking, a quick drizzle of olive oil adds extra silkiness and shine.
Patience is key here. Rushing the bake may leave feta too firm or tomatoes undercooked. Giving it the full baking time results in that creamy dip everyone loves!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Small baking dish – perfect size to hold the feta and tomatoes without crowding, helping them roast evenly.
- Measuring spoons – for adding the right amount of olive oil, herbs, and garlic without guesswork.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop garlic and fresh herbs safely and easily.
- Spoon or small spatula – great for drizzling oil and scooping out the creamy dip once baked.
- Oven mitts – essential for handling the hot baking dish safely when you take it out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle spicy kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy feta.
- Mix in roasted red peppers or olives before baking for extra depth and a salty, tangy boost.
- Try topping with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts after baking for a crunchy texture.
- Swap fresh basil for fresh thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note that pairs well with tomatoes.
Baked Feta Dip Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225 g) block feta cheese
- 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (mixed colors preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread or pita, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, so plan for roughly 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend just a few minutes arranging ingredients in the baking dish, then let your oven do the rest while you relax or prepare your dipping bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a small baking dish and place the block of feta cheese right in the center.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Scatter the cherry tomatoes both around and on top of the feta. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the cheese and tomatoes. Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano or thyme, and freshly ground black pepper on top. This will give your dip a lovely aroma and flavor as it bakes.
3. Bake Until Perfect:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and beginning to burst, and the feta becomes creamy and bubbly. The colors will be vibrant and inviting.
4. Finish and Serve:
Take the dish out of the oven carefully using oven mitts. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top for extra richness. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve warm with crusty bread or pita for dipping into that deliciously creamy, savory goodness.
Can I Use Frozen Feta Cheese?
It’s best to use fresh feta for this recipe. If you have frozen feta, thaw it completely in the fridge overnight and drain any excess liquid before baking to avoid a watery dip.
Can I Make This Dip Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dip and bake it, then let it cool and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warm and bubbly before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy.
What Can I Use Instead of Cherry Tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes or chopped sundried tomatoes work well. Roasted red peppers are also a tasty alternative for a different flavor.
