Name: Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe for a Sweet Savory Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Pears (Bosc or Anjou) (Choose firm varieties to retain shape); 4 ounces Blue Cheese (Can substitute with gorgonzola or goat cheese); 1/2 cup Walnuts (Toasted and chopped); 2 tablespoons Honey (Use high-quality honey); 1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs (thyme or rosemary) (For added aroma)

As I arranged the pears on the baking sheet, a wave of anticipation washed over me—after just ten minutes in the oven, I knew these Baked Pears with Blue Cheese and Walnuts would shine on my table. This Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe celebrates the delightful union of sweet, ripe pears and the bold tang of creamy blue cheese, all crowned with the crunch of toasted walnuts. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; it effortlessly serves as an elegant appetizer or a unique side that can elevate any gathering. Plus, with such quick prep time, you can whip these up even on your busiest evenings. Have you ever tasted such a harmonious blend of flavors? Let’s dive into creating this irresistibly simple yet sophisticated delight!

Why Choose This Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe?

Simplicity: In just 10 minutes, you can present a stunning dish with minimal effort.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a sweet and savory symphony, thanks to the pairing of juicy pears, tangy blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts.

Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer, side, or even a unique dessert substitute, it fits seamlessly into any meal occasion.

Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests with this elegant and sophisticated dish that’s bound to be a conversation starter.

Make-ahead Option: Prep ahead of time for stress-free entertaining—who doesn’t love that?

Explore more delightful combinations with our Spinach Ricotta Stuffed or indulge in the soothing flavors of Avocado Grilled Cheese.

Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe Ingredients

• Dive into a flavor adventure with these delightful stuffed pears!

For the Pears

Pears – Choose firm varieties like Bosc or Anjou to ensure they retain their shape while baking.

For the Filling

Blue Cheese – This rich and creamy cheese brings a tangy flavor; try gorgonzola or goat cheese for a twist.

For the Topping

Walnuts – Toasted chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch and nuttiness; don’t skip this step!
Honey – Use high-quality honey to balance the savory and sweet components beautifully in this Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe.

Optional Garnish

Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking. A hot oven will help achieve that perfect tender texture for the pears while melting the blue cheese beautifully. Make sure to use a reliable oven thermometer if you’re not sure your oven is calibrated correctly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pears
While the oven is heating, take two firm pears, like Bosc or Anjou. Carefully core and slice each pear in half, removing the seeds while keeping the halves intact. You want the juicy pear flesh to remain for the Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe. Place the halved pears cut side up on a baking dish, ready for filling.

Step 3: Fill the Pears
Using a small spoon, generously fill the hollowed portion of each pear half with tangy blue cheese. Make sure to press it in slightly so it holds during baking. Feel free to substitute with gorgonzola or goat cheese for a different flavor profile that suits your taste buds.

Step 4: Add Walnuts and Honey
Chop some walnuts and sprinkle them over the blue cheese filling in each pear half. Next, drizzle high-quality honey over the stuffed pears, allowing the sweetness to seep into the filling. This step is crucial for balancing the flavors in this Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe and providing delightful contrasts in every bite.

Step 5: Bake the Pears
Now, carefully place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake the stuffed pears for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for melted cheese and soft, tender pears that still hold their form. The edges may caramelize slightly, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the Pears cool slightly before serving. Present them warm or allow them to reach room temperature for a delightful addition to your appetizer spread. The Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe is sure to impress your guests as an elegant dish that combines both sweetness and savory richness.

How to Store and Freeze Cheese Stuffed Pears

Fridge: Store leftover Cheese Stuffed Pears in an airtight container for up to 2 days; they are best enjoyed fresh, but you can gently reheat them in the oven to restore their delightful texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze stuffed pears after baking. Wrap each pear tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Thawing: To enjoy frozen Cheese Stuffed Pears, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently in your oven until warm and gooey.

Reheating: When ready to serve, warm the pears in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and the cheese is luscious again.

Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this delightful dish to suit your taste!

Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative that offers a unique flavor twist.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the blue cheese filling for an aromatic burst that elevates each bite.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the pears before baking to add a touch of warmth and excitement.
Maple Drizzle: Swap honey for pure maple syrup to introduce a subtly sweet depth of flavor with a hint of caramel.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with creamy goat cheese or sharp aged cheddar for completely different flavor profiles that suit your mood.
Fruit Fusion: Add sliced figs or cranberries alongside the blue cheese for a fruity contrast that enhances the overall experience.
Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: Finish with a splash of balsamic glaze before serving to add a gourmet touch and rich acidity.
Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, combine panko breadcrumbs with your walnuts before baking, adding a delightful crunch once baked.

Enjoy exploring these variations! They may inspire your next cheese-stuffed creation. Don’t miss out on other delightful recipes like our Cottage Cheese Chickpea or delicious Pecan Pie Balls.

What to Serve with Baked Pears with Blue Cheese and Walnuts

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of baked pears.

Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad provides a fresh contrast to the sweet and savory pears, adding crispness to each bite. Toss with a simple lemon vinaigrette to brighten the flavors.
Toasted Baguette Slices: Serve with slices of toasted baguette for an elegant cheese board experience, perfect for scooping up the melted blue cheese and creamy honey drizzle.
Roasted Asparagus: The earthy taste of roasted asparagus complements the dish, offering a lovely crunch that enhances the creamy cheese and soft pear combination.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the meal with its fruity notes and crisp acidity, creating a perfect balance to the rich cheese and sweet honey.
Savory Quiche: A slice of savory quiche brings warmth and richness, introducing a comforting contrast to the vibrant flavors of the pears and cheese, making your meal feel complete.
Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, pair with a light dark chocolate mousse, making a luxurious end to your meal that echoes the sweet and savory elements of the stuffed pears.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: These bright and sweet carrots echo the honey used in the pears, creating a delightful harmony of flavors while adding a pop of color to your plate.
Spiced Nuts: Offer a small bowl of spiced nuts for snacking, complementing the texture and flavor while adding an element of crunch that echoes the walnuts in the dish.

Expert Tips for Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe

Choosing Pears: Select ripe yet firm pears to ensure they hold their shape during baking; overripe pears can become mushy.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the pears while baking; aim for perfectly melted blue cheese and tender pears without losing structure.
Opt for Quality Ingredients: High-quality blue cheese and honey enhance the flavors, ensuring your Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe is truly memorable.
Experiment with Flavor: Don’t hesitate to try different cheese varieties or nuts; feta and pecans offer delightful twists on this classic.
Balance the Sweetness: Drizzle honey judiciously; too much can overpower the dish. Adjust according to your taste for a harmonious blend of flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheese Stuffed Pears are perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining! You can core and slice the pears, as well as fill them with blue cheese, up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Toast the walnuts ahead of time to preserve their crunch, and keep them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle with honey and bake the pears at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making meal prep a breeze and allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment with friends and family!

Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe FAQs

What type of pears are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s best to choose firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for this Cheese Stuffed Pears Recipe. They offer a sweet, juicy flavor while maintaining their shape when baked, ensuring a perfect texture every time.

How should I store leftover stuffed pears?
Leftover Cheese Stuffed Pears can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I recommend rewarming them gently in the oven for a few minutes before serving to bring back their flavors and texture.

Can I freeze Cheese Stuffed Pears?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Cheese Stuffed Pears, first, let them cool completely. Wrap each pear tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm and gooey.

What should I do if my pears end up mushy?
Very! To prevent mushy pears, make sure to use ripe but firm varieties, and watch them closely while baking. Aim for about 10 minutes in the oven; if you notice them softening too quickly, you can reduce the time slightly to retain that delightful texture.

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to someone with a nut allergy, you can simply omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds, such as sunflower seeds, to maintain that crunch without compromising safety.