These Baked Goat Cheese Balls with Marinara are a delightful addition to your holiday gatherings, especially as Christmas Eve appetizers. They are easy to prepare and offer a wonderful combination of creamy goat cheese and savory marinara sauce.
This recipe is perfect for entertaining and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Easy Baked Goat Cheese Balls Recipe
These goat cheese balls are coated in breadcrumbs and baked until golden, served alongside a rich marinara sauce for dipping. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 8 oz goat cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the Balls: Using your hands, form the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Coat the Balls: Roll each cheese ball in the breadcrumbs until fully coated and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese balls are golden brown and heated through.
- Serve: Warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan. Serve the baked goat cheese balls with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
