Whipped Goat Cheese

We don't get a ton of unexpected holiday visitors out here on the ranch, but if we did, whipped goat cheese is exactly what I'd make the second they stepped in the door. This appetizer is so simple you can make it in under 20 minutes. It's basically tangy goat cheese whipped with some sour cream into a smooth, dreamy consistency. But what makes it extra special is the topping: pancetta cooked down until crisp and tossed with toasted panko breadcrumbs and parsley. It adds such a savory, crunchy essence to the cheesy dip! Make this for your friends and neighbors who stop by, make it for a holiday party, or make it as a dinner for one with a glass of wine. I think I like that idea best.

What can you use instead of pancetta?

Bacon is a great swap for pancetta! About two slices of bacon should do the trick.

What do you serve with whipped goat cheese?

You can dip practically anything in whipped goat cheese and it's delicious. Think sliced cucumbers, halved radishes, mini peppers, carrot sticks, crackers, crusty bread—just raid your fridge or pantry and grab what looks tasty.

Can you make whipped goat cheese ahead of time?

Yes! This dip takes just 20 minutes; sometimes, it's nice to have a snack already prepared in the fridge, especially if you're hosting a party. The goat cheese and sour cream can be whipped together up to one day ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The topping can be made up to two hours in advance. When it comes time to serve the dip, give it a good stir, then add the topping.