Are you looking for a way to elevate your meals with rich, creamy flavors? Look no further than mascarpone! This triple-cream cheese is a game-changer when it comes to adding depth and complexity to both sweet and savory dishes. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious recipes that showcase the best of mascarpone’s creamy, dreamy goodness.
From comforting pasta dishes to decadent dips and appetizers, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. Whether you’re a cheese lover, a foodie, or just looking for inspiration for your next meal, we’ve got you covered with these 18 creamy, savory mascarpone delights.
Garlic and Herb Mascarpone Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, aromatic recipe that combines the richness of mascarpone cheese with the pungency of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together mascarpone cheese, garlic, parsley, and basil until well combined.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the mascarpone mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mascarpone and Mushroom Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish featuring sautéed mushrooms and a tangy mascarpone sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in mascarpone cheese and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, mushroom-mascarpone sauce, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Mascarpone Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, spinach-filled take on classic stuffed shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, mascarpone cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-mascarpone mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Mascarpone Dip
Roasted Red Pepper and Mascarpone Dip Recipe
A creamy and vibrant dip perfect for snacking or entertaining
Ingredients:
- 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika for added smokiness
Instructions:
- Precareat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the chopped red peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
- Let the peppers cool slightly, then peel off the skin and chop into small pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine the roasted red peppers, mascarpone cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Mascarpone Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this elegant and flavorful bite-sized treat. The creamy mascarpone cheese pairs perfectly with the rich, smoky salmon, all on a crispy baguette base.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) package smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Fresh dill or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix mascarpone cheese with lemon juice and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spread a layer of mascarpone mixture onto each toasted baguette round.
5. Top with flaked smoked salmon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh dill or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes toasting the baguette)
Truffle Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes
These decadent mashed potatoes combine the richness of truffles with the creaminess of mascarpone cheese, making them a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 teaspoon truffle oil or shaved fresh truffles (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with butter, mascarpone cheese, truffle oil (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mascarpone and Sun-Dried Tomato Risotto
This rich and flavorful risotto combines the creaminess of mascarpone with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 3 ounces mascarpone cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until tender, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in sun-dried tomatoes and white wine (if using).
5. Remove from heat; stir in mascarpone cheese until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Mascarpone Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the richness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spread the cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Dollop the mascarpone cheese over the onions.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the pastry with a little water and sprinkle with sugar.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Prosciutto and Mascarpone Stuffed Mushrooms
These decadent bite-sized treats combine the rich flavors of prosciutto, mascarpone cheese, and earthy mushrooms for a truly unforgettable experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (button or cremini work well)
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 4 slices prosciutto, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mascarpone cheese and chopped prosciutto until well combined.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and remove stems. Fill each cap with the mascarpone-prosciutto mixture, mounding slightly in center.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is lightly browned.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon and Mascarpone Ravioli with Asparagus
Brighten up your pasta game with this refreshing spring-inspired dish, featuring tender asparagus, creamy mascarpone, and a burst of citrusy lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 package fresh wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix mascarpone, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the mascarpone mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook asparagus in boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
7. Cook ravioli in boiling, salted water for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain.
8. Toss cooked ravioli with olive oil, asparagus, and a pinch of salt. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Mascarpone Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a decadent twist on the classic breakfast treat. Crunchy bacon, creamy mascarpone cheese, and sweet bread come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( challah or brioche work well)
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg, heavy cream, and sugar until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix the crumbled bacon and mascarpone cheese in a small bowl.
6. Once the French toast is cooked, spread about 1 tablespoon of the bacon-mascarpone mixture onto each slice.
7. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes per batch of 4 slices.
Pumpkin and Mascarpone Gnocchi
This recipe combines the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of mascarpone cheese to create a unique and delicious twist on traditional gnocchi. Perfect for fall and winter celebrations, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed pumpkin, flour, Parmesan cheese, and salt.
2. Gradually add the mascarpone cheese and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each into a long rope.
5. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
7. Remove with a slotted spoon and serve with your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Wild Mushroom and Mascarpone Polenta
This hearty dish combines the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms with the richness of mascarpone cheese, all wrapped up in a creamy polenta base. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir mascarpone cheese into cooked polenta until smooth. Combine with mushroom mixture and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Artichoke and Mascarpone Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy and savory stuffed breast, featuring artichokes and mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together artichoke hearts, mascarpone cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the artichoke-mascarpone mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto and Mascarpone Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the brightness of pesto with the creaminess of mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large beefsteak or heirloom tomatoes
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes, then scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together pesto and mascarpone cheese until well combined.
4. Stuff each tomato with the pesto-mascarpone mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the filling.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blue Cheese and Mascarpone Soufflé
Elevate your dinner party with this decadent soufflé, combining the bold flavors of blue cheese and mascarpone cream. This elegant dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) grated blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120g) mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with grated Parmesan cheese.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, melted butter, egg yolks, and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
3. Remove from heat and stir in blue cheese and mascarpone until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
4. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into the blue cheese mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Pour mixture into prepared soufflé dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Mascarpone and Cucumber Tea Sandwiches
Elevate your tea party with these refreshing sandwiches, featuring creamy herbed mascarpone cheese and crisp cucumber slices on soft white bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives
– 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
– 4 slices of white bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together mascarpone cheese, parsley, dill, and chives until well combined.
2. Spread a layer of the herbed mascarpone mixture onto each slice of bread.
3. Top with a cucumber round.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble sandwiches just before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Roasted Garlic and Mascarpone Pizza
This savory pizza combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic with the creaminess of mascarpone cheese, perfect for a unique dinner party or weekend treat. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll be enjoying a gourmet-inspired pizza in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cloves roasted garlic (see note)
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Spread roasted garlic over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Top with mascarpone cheese and chopped thyme (if using).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Note: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top third of a whole head of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until cloves are tender.
Summary
Mascarpone, a triple-cream cheese, adds an indulgent twist to these 18 savory recipes. From stuffed chicken and pasta dishes to tarts, crostini, and more, these creamy delights are sure to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and comforting or light and refreshing, this collection of recipes has got you covered. With flavors ranging from garlic and herbs to truffles and sun-dried tomatoes, there’s something for every palate.
