Goat cheese is a tart and creamy ingredient that can enhance dishes with a wide range of flavor profiles, from savory breakfast foods to rich desserts. There are so many ways to use this versatile ingredient that you may not know where to begin. Here are a few delicious recipe ideas to get you started.

5 Creative Ways to Use Goat Cheese in Cooking

1. Cheesecake Bites

When you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, try a decadent cheesecake. Goat cheese has a smooth, thick texture and touch of tanginess that makes it perfect for this bite-sized treat. Mix powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract with your cheese and spoon the mixture into phyllo cups. Top them with strawberry preserves for a final touch.

2. Stuffed Chicken

Goat cheese-stuffed chicken is a quick, easy, and healthy main course the whole family will love. Combine the cheese with fresh minced parsley and thyme. Cut a slit into the side of each chicken breast, then spread the cheese and herb mixture inside. Season the breasts as desired, and heat them on medium-high until fully cooked.

3. Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a simple yet tasty appetizer that is best topped with fresh and flavorful ingredients. Toast baguette slices drizzled in olive oil in the oven for about 15 minutes at 400°F. As the bread is toasting, mix diced tomatoes, chopped shallots, fresh basil, and finely chopped garlic. Give each bread slice a generous spread of goat cheese, then top it off with the tomato mixture. For a unique twist, substitute plain goat cheese with a flavored variety, such as fresh garlic chives or sun-dried tomato.

4. Tomato & Cheese Pasta

If you’re tired of using the same spaghetti and meatball recipe, try a creamy tomato and goat cheese pasta. Cook up some penne pasta and start your sauce. Sauté half a chopped onion with olive oil, then add minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer and stir in the cheese and fresh basil. Serve over your drained pasta with freshly grated Parmesan.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Grilled cheese sandwiches aren’t just for kids. With goat cheese, you can serve up a gourmet, grown-up version. You can use any combination of cheeses you like, but creamy and mild mozzarella goes especially well with goat cheese. Layer pesto, peppers, cheese, and arugula on buttered bread, and heat the sandwich on a skillet until it's golden-brown.

If you’re eager to try out these recipes, pick up some fresh goat cheese from Surfing Goat Dairy. Serving Maui and neighboring islands since 1999, this family-owned goat farm offers delicious cheeses in a wide range of unique flavors, from sriracha to Mango Supreme, made with fresh Hayden mangoes and mango chutney. Visit their online store to browse their cheese collection. If you have any questions about their products, call (808) 878-2870.