Mascarpone, an Italian cream cheese known for its versatility and sweet, milky flavor, is often overlooked in savory dishes. However, it can add a rich creaminess to a variety of recipes beyond just desserts. In fact, it’s one of the key components in making tiramisu, a popular Italian dessert made with coffee and chocolate. But what about using mascarpone in savory meals? Its creamy texture pairs perfectly with pasta dishes and sauces, offering a unique twist on traditional flavors.
To inspire your culinary creativity, we’ve compiled 13 savory mascarpone recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From comforting Parsnip Risotto to crowd-pleasing Mascarpone Stuffed Mushrooms, these recipes showcase the versatility of this underrated ingredient.
Parsnip Risotto
With just nine ingredients, you’ll be smitten with this indulgent parsnip and sage risotto, where the harmonious trio of mascarpone, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a richly creamy foundation. The subtle nuances of white wine then emerge, boasting a delicate floral and citrusy essence that perfectly balances the dish’s overall flavor profile. To take it to the next level, consider finishing the risotto with an extra dollop of mascarpone for an unparalleled creaminess.
Fresh Tomato Soup
This delectable tomato soup is elevated by the rich, creamy indulgence of mascarpone, an Italian cream cheese that adds depth and velvety texture. The best part? It only takes 45 minutes to prepare, allowing you to serve it alongside a perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty loaf for a comforting meal.
Cauliflower Mascarpone Gratin
What makes this cauliflower gratin truly exceptional is its effortless preparation. Despite its rich flavors, the dish requires minimal effort to assemble. The key lies in the tender yet crisp texture of the cauliflower, which serves as the perfect base for a creamy and cheesy sauce crafted from mascarpone, cream, and parmesan.
Mascarpone Spinach Pasta
Imagine serving a spinach pasta that defies expectations with a creamy sauce crafted from rich mascarpone cheese. The game-changing twist? A sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts adds an unexpected textural depth to each bite. To temper the indulgence, a squeeze of lemon juice brings balance and harmony to the dish. And if you’re wondering how quickly this delightful creation will disappear, be warned: double the recipe at your own risk, as it’s sure to vanish in no time.
Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in these show-stopping mashed potatoes, elevated by the harmonious union of mascarpone and chopped chives. This delightful combination yields a rich, creamy, and tantalizingly tangy flavor profile that’s sure to impress at any holiday gathering. The velvety texture is simply irresistible, making it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of main courses, such as tender roast beef, crispy fried chicken, or a succulent steak. And the best part?
They keep beautifully in the fridge, making them a convenient and stress-free addition to your holiday menu.
Shaved Asparagus Galette
Indulge your passion for asparagus with this delectable shaved asparagus galette, an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more. The rich and creamy filling is crafted from a harmonious blend of mascarpone cheese, parmesan cheese, and Jarlsberg cheese, perfectly balanced to tantalize your taste buds. To add an extra layer of depth, season the dish with a subtle dash of cayenne pepper, infusing a spicy undertone that complements the asparagus’s natural sweetness.
Sweet Potato And Mascarpone Ravioli
Clearing your culinary doubts about mascarpone can start with this delectable homemade dish that’s sure to leave you indulging in its creamy goodness! While making ravioli pasta from scratch may require some time and effort, the reward lies in savoring each bite of the final product, where the richness of mascarpone truly shines.
Keto Cloud Bread
This gluten-free cloud bread, affectionately known as oopsie bread, relies on only three essential ingredients to rise above the rest. The absence of flour allows for a unique texture and taste experience.
The real magic happens when you take a bite, which is surprisingly light and airy with subtle notes of buttery goodness courtesy of eggs and mascarpone cheese.
To unlock the perfect loaf, it’s crucial to bake the dough at a low temperature, a technique that requires patience but yields impressive results.
Mushroom, Thyme, and Mascarpone Parcels
The star of these delectable hand pies lies in the harmonious union of savory ingredients within their flaky crusts. Specifically, the filling’s allure stems from a rich combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy mascarpone cheese, and fragrant thyme. The synergy between these elements is truly exceptional.
I must confess that I’m particularly fond of this flavor profile. Moreover, the recipe’s versatility is another compelling aspect.
Not only can you substitute thyme with an equal amount of fresh rosemary for a distinctively herbaceous twist, but you’re also free to swap out cremini mushrooms for any other variety you have on hand, allowing you to personalize the taste experience even further.
Savory Garden Harvest Veggie Tart
Indulge in the rich flavors of this savory tart at your next gathering! The combination of mascarpone, parmesan, and goat cheese creates a delightful medley that will surely impress. To assemble this masterpiece, begin with a flaky tart or pie crust, then spread a layer of creamy garlic parmesan cheese. Next, add a colorful array of your favorite vegetables on top for a visually appealing presentation.
Lemon Risotto
With a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your dinner game with this sublime lemon risotto recipe. The star of the show is mascarpone, which brings an unparalleled richness and creaminess to the dish. Its velvety texture harmonizes perfectly with the brightness of lemon, while saffron’s subtle floral notes add depth and complexity.
Feel free to take it up a notch by incorporating a medley of ingredients, such as tender peas, succulent chicken, crisp asparagus, earthy mushrooms, or even seafood for a decadent twist.
One-Pot Pasta
Indulge your family’s cravings with this mouthwatering one-pot pasta recipe, as its rich tomato-mascarpone sauce and subtle notes of dried Italian herbs come together in perfect harmony. The creamy mascarpone adds an unparalleled depth to the dish, making it a must-have for repeat performances.
Mascarpone Stuffed Mushrooms
These delectable stuffed mushrooms are sure to tantalize your taste buds and become a crowd-pleaser during holiday gatherings. As they emerge from the oven, their mouthwatering aroma will draw everyone in, prompting them to flock to the kitchen to uncover the culinary delight being prepared. And with a rich stuffing made from a generous blend of parmesan cheese, you’ll create a velvety, tangy, and indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
The bottom line
While mascarpone is often associated with sweet treats like tiramisu, its uses extend far beyond the realm of dessert-making. This rich and creamy cheese has a multitude of applications in both sweet and savory dishes, making it a versatile addition to any culinary repertoire.
