Chef Mitchell preparing Roasted Pears with Cheese
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered this recipe while traveling through the Mediterranean, where I fell in love with the combination of sweet and savory flavors. After experimenting with various cheeses and toppings, I finally perfected this version with blue cheese and walnuts. It has since become a favorite among my friends and family and is a staple at my dinner parties."

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on desserts. His expertise lies in blending traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. Known for his innovative recipes, he has created over 1000 dishes that celebrate the richness of Mediterranean ingredients.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Roasted Pears with Cheese served on a plate

Why This Roasted Pears with Cheese Recipe Works

This recipe works beautifully because it balances the sweetness of the roasted pears with the rich flavor of the cheese. The honey and balsamic vinegar create a wonderful glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the pears. Using blue cheese adds a tangy contrast that elevates the dish.

The roasting technique allows the pears to caramelize, bringing out their sweetness while the cheese melts beautifully. This combination results in a dish that is not only flavorful but also visually stunning, making it perfect for any special occasion.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, choose ripe pears that are slightly firm to ensure they hold their shape during roasting. Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the pears ahead of time by halving and coring them, then storing them in the refrigerator. For best results, add the cheese and nuts right before roasting to maintain their texture and flavor.

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute blue cheese with goat cheese or feta cheese. Both options offer a creamy texture and delicious taste that complements the pears well.

The pears are done when they are tender and caramelized, which usually takes about 35-40 minutes in the oven. You can check by piercing the flesh with a fork; it should slide in easily.

It's not recommended to freeze roasted pears with cheese, as the texture may change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the pears before roasting them. Just thaw and roast them when you're ready to serve.

Roasted Pears with Cheese pairs wonderfully with a side of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream. You can also serve it alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

Roasted Pears with Cheese can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving to maintain its delicious flavors.

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately. Just assemble the dish and roast it right before serving for the best taste and texture.

The best way to reheat Roasted Pears with Cheese is to place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain the texture of the pears and cheese.

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the nuts on top aren't crispy.

Solution: To achieve a crispier topping, you can toast the walnuts separately before adding them to the pears. This will enhance their crunchiness.

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Overcooked

Problem: If the pears are overcooked and mushy.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, check the pears a few minutes before the suggested cooking time. Remove them from the oven once they are tender yet firm.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the pears is still hard.

Recovery: If you find the pears are undercooked, cover the baking dish with foil and return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness frequently.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the outer part of the pears is burnt while the inside remains undercooked.

Prevention: To prevent burning, consider lowering the temperature slightly and covering the dish with foil for part of the cooking time, then uncovering it for the last few minutes.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: Add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the sweetness of the pears and honey.

Too Salty: Add a little more honey or more pears to dilute the saltiness and restore balance.

Bland: Increase the amount of cheese or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for added depth of flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Roasted Pears with Cheese

Essential Ingredients for Roasted Pears with Cheese

The key ingredients for this dish include ripe pears, which should be sweet and firm, blue cheese for a rich, tangy flavor, and walnuts for crunch. Honey adds a natural sweetness that complements the pears beautifully.

Using high-quality cheese and fresh, ripe pears will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Choose a cheese that's creamy and has a strong flavor to contrast with the sweetness of the fruit.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Pears: Select pears that are ripe but still firm to the touch. Varieties like Bosc or Anjou are great choices as they hold their shape well when roasted.
  • Blue Cheese: Opt for a high-quality blue cheese that has a strong flavor. This will provide a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the pears.
  • Walnuts: Toasting walnuts before adding them to the dish enhances their flavor and provides a delightful crunch, making the texture of the dish even more enjoyable.
Cooking process for Roasted Pears with Cheese

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process begins with preheating your oven and preparing the pears. Each step is straightforward, making this recipe accessible for all skill levels. Ensuring proper seasoning before roasting is crucial for achieving the best flavor.

To achieve perfect results, monitor the cooking time closely. The goal is to have tender, caramelized pears topped with melted cheese, creating a dish that's both visually appealing and delicious.

Key Technique for Perfect Roasted Pears with Cheese

The secret to perfect roasted pears lies in the balance of flavors and careful roasting. Make sure to coat the pears evenly with olive oil and honey, and keep an eye on them in the oven to achieve caramelization without burning.

Roasted Pears with Cheese

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup honey
    Natural sweetener
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
    For drizzling
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
    Add crunch
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
    For roasting
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
    For warmth

For the Sauce

  • 4 ripe pears
    Halved and cored
  • 6 oz blue cheese
    Crumbled
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Natural sweetener
  • 1/4 cup walnuts
    Chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
    For roasting
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
    For warmth

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Prepare Pears

    Halve and core the pears, then place them cut side up in a baking dish.

  3. Season Pears

    Drizzle the pears with olive oil, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

  4. Add Cheese and Nuts

    Top each pear with crumbled blue cheese and chopped walnuts.

  5. Roast Pears

    Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes or until the pears are tender and caramelized.

  6. Garnish

    Remove the pears from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme and almond slivers.

  7. Serve

    Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Roasted Pears with Cheese, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the cheese and walnuts separate if you intend to reheat them later.

Serving Suggestions

These roasted pears make an excellent dessert by themselves, but they can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the presentation.

Recipe Variations

Try substituting blue cheese with goat cheese for a milder flavor. You can also add cranberries or pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color. Experimenting with various nuts like pecans or hazelnuts can also provide a delightful twist.