Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Place the goat cheese in the center of the baking dish and slightly flatten it into a disk using a spoon or spatula.
In a small bowl, mix cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the goat cheese. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar if using.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and bubbly and the goat cheese is warm and creamy.
Remove from oven and top with fresh basil. Serve warm with toasted baguette slices or your favorite crackers.