If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your appetizers, this Homemade Marinated Goat Cheese recipe is just the thing. Creamy goat cheese is rolled into bite-sized balls and infused with herbs, spices, and olive oil, making them perfect for spreading over your favorite crackers or adding to a charcuterie board. It comes together with minimal effort but feels fancy enough to serve at any gathering—and it also makes a thoughtful, homemade gift for friends and neighbors.
These would go perfectly on a small charcuterie board. Homemade crackers are also delicious with this marinated goat cheese as well. I have recipes for rye crackers, einkorn crackers, and crunchy wheat crackers.
Ingredients
- Goat cheese- I used a goat cheese log, and rolled it into small balls. You can also slice it, but I prefer the balls for marinating and serving.
- Olive oil- A good olive oil is important in this recipe.
- Fresh thyme-dried will work as well, but fresh is better for flavor.
- Fresh garlic- this can either be minced or sliced. I minced mine.
- Peppercorns- I used a blend of black and pink peppercorns.
- Salt- I used kosher salt, but this is optional.
How to make
Form the goat cheese into small, 1-inch balls and set them gently into a mason jar or other container. To this container, add in the spices, tucking them in between and on the side of the goat cheese balls. Pour the olive oil over the goat cheese until it has covered all of them.
Top with a lid and place in the fridge for at least 24 hours before serving. When olive oil is chilled, it can get a little cloudy. There is nothing wrong with this, once it comes to room temperature, it clears again. Serve it as you like.
Variation options
You can use a wide variety of fresh herbs to season the goat cheese. I have used basil and oregano before as well and they offer delicious flavor to the goat cheese. Another favorite addition of mine is Herbs de Provence. In my mind, this is the perfect blend of herbs, especially for the goat cheese.
How to serve the marinated goat cheese
- Crusty Bread or Baguette Slices – Perfect for spreading the creamy, flavorful cheese.
- Crackers – Choose plain or lightly seasoned to let the cheese shine.
- Fresh Vegetables – Try cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper strips, or radishes.
- Olives – A mix of green and black olives pairs well with the tangy cheese.
- Charcuterie Meats – Prosciutto, salami, or cured ham complement the marinated flavors.
- Fresh Fruit – Grapes, figs, or apple slices add a sweet contrast.
- Nuts – Almonds, walnuts, or pistachios for extra crunch.
- Salads – Crumble over mixed greens, arugula, or roasted beet salad.
- Roasted or Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus make a great match.
- Pasta Dishes – Stir into warm pasta for a creamy, tangy touch.
- Pizza or Flatbreads – Add as a topping for an extra layer of flavor.
- Stuffed Peppers or Mushrooms – Use as a filling for a savory appetizer.
- Egg Dishes – Sprinkle over omelets, frittatas, or scrambled eggs.
If you love goat cheese as much as I do, let me give you a few other recommendations.
Homemade Marinated Goat Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 4-8 ounces goat cheese I used about 6 in mine, but this will depend on the size of your container.
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons peppercorns
- 1 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ¾-1 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Form the goat cheese into small, 1-inch balls and set them gently into a mason jar or other container. To this container, add in the spices, tucking them in between and on the side of the goat cheese balls. Pour the olive oil over the goat cheese until it has covered all of them.
- Top with a lid and place in the fridge for at least 24 hours before serving. When olive oil is chilled, it can get a little cloudy. There is nothing wrong with this, once it comes to room temperature, it clears again.
Jen says
The marinade solidified in the fridge. Is this supposed to happen?
Amy Sandidge says
Yes! Totally normal. This is the olive oil. Let it sit at room temperature for an hour or 2 (depending on how warm your house is) and it will liquefy again! Hope that helps.