17 Italian Cream Cheese Recipe Deliciousness Awaits You!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
Italian cream cheese is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. This creamy and tangy cheese adds a unique flavor to any recipe, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. While many may think of cream cheese as a staple in American cuisine, it actually originated in Italy. In this article, we will explore the history of Italian cream cheese and share a delicious recipe for you to try at home.
If you love creamy desserts, then this Italian cream cheese cake is a must-try. Made with a rich and velvety cream cheese filling and a buttery, crumbly crust, this cake will satisfy all your sweet cravings. The addition of vanilla extract gives it a warm and comforting flavor, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.
This hearty and flavorful Italian chicken casserole is a great way to use up leftover chicken. Layered with Italian sausage, zesty marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Serve it over pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Crock Pot Creamy Italian Chicken
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Good Seasons Italian
If you're looking for an easy and delicious weeknight dinner, then this crock pot creamy Italian chicken is the perfect solution. Simply toss chicken breast, Italian dressing, and cream cheese in a slow cooker and let it cook to tender perfection. Serve it over rice or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
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Creamy Italian Pasta Casserole
Main Ingredients: Penne Pasta, Half And Half, Heavy Cream, Red Pepper
This creamy Italian pasta casserole is a comforting and indulgent dish that is sure to please. Made with ground beef, penne pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce, this casserole is topped with parmesan cheese and baked to perfection. Serve it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
If you're tired of the same old chicken dishes, then give these Italian chicken thighs a try. The marinade made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning adds a burst of flavor to the chicken thighs. Serve them with your favorite vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.
This Italian ricotta cheesecake is a lighter and fluffier version of the classic cheesecake. Made with ricotta cheese and lemon zest, this cheesecake has a refreshing and tangy flavor. Top it with some fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
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Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Main Ingredients: Fettuccine Pasta, Cajun Seasoning, Salt, Cracked Black
Spice up your pasta night with this Cajun chicken Alfredo. Made with penne pasta, cajun-spiced chicken, and a creamy alfredo sauce, this dish is full of bold flavors. The addition of sliced bell peppers and onions adds a nice crunch to the dish.
This crock pot Italian chicken pasta is a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Simply toss chicken breast, Italian seasoning, and marinara sauce in a slow cooker and let it cook to tender perfection. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a delicious and easy meal.
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Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Flour
This chicken fettuccine alfredo is a classic and indulgent dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Made with homemade alfredo sauce and tender chicken, this dish is rich and creamy. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a complete and comforting meal.
This crockpot Italian chicken is a simple and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort. Made with chicken breasts, Italian dressing, and brown sugar, this dish has a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Serve it over rice or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
This creamy Italian chicken is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The creamy sauce made with cream cheese and Italian seasonings adds a delicious and indulgent touch to the chicken breasts. Serve it with your favorite pasta for a satisfying meal.
Indulge in this delicious and tangy Italian lemon cream cake for your next special occasion. Made with a light and fluffy sponge cake and a lemon cream cheese frosting, this cake is a refreshing and delightful dessert. Top it with some fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor.
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Italian Sausage Penne & Four Cheese Tomato Sauce
Main Ingredients: Italian Sausage, Penne Pasta, Cream Cheese, Tomato
This Italian sausage penne with four cheese tomato sauce is a decadent and flavorful dish that will have you going back for seconds. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, penne pasta, and four different types of cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish. Serve it with a crusty bread for a complete meal.
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Fettuccine Alfredo
Main Ingredients: Alfredo Sauce, Butter, Cream Cheese, Heavy Cream
Nothing beats a classic fettuccine alfredo when you're craving a comforting and indulgent meal. This dish is made with fettuccine pasta and a creamy alfredo sauce that is rich and flavorful. Add some shrimp or chicken for some protein and serve it with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
This Italian cheese ball is a perfect appetizer for any party or gathering. Made with a blend of Italian cheeses, herbs, and spices, this cheese ball is full of flavor and pairs well with crackers or sliced vegetables. It's also a great make-ahead dish that can be prepared ahead of time.
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Easy Chicken Piccata
Main Ingredients: Skinless Chicken Breasts, Salt, Black Pepper, All
This easy chicken piccata is a quick and delicious dinner option for busy weeknights. The thinly sliced chicken breast is coated in a lemon butter sauce and topped with capers for a burst of flavor. Serve it with roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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Easy Alfredo Sauce
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Cream Cheese, Italian Seasoning
If you're a fan of creamy and indulgent pasta, then this easy Alfredo sauce is a must-try. Made with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and garlic, this sauce is rich and flavorful. Toss it with your favorite pasta and fresh herbs for a quick and delicious meal.
This one pot Italian sausage pasta is not only delicious, but it also saves you from doing a ton of dishes. The sweet Italian sausage, penne pasta, and creamy tomato sauce all cook together in one pot, making clean up a breeze. Serve it with some garlic bread for a complete meal.
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Spinach Tomato & Garlic Penne Pasta
Main Ingredients: Tomato Paste, Cream Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Penne
This spinach tomato and garlic penne pasta is a simple and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh spinach, tomatoes, and garlic creates a light and refreshing sauce that pairs perfectly with penne pasta. Top it with some parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
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Keto Italian Garlic Bread Sticks
Main Ingredients: Mozzarella Cheese, Cream Cheese, Large Eggs, Almond
If you're following a keto diet, then these Italian garlic bread sticks are a must-try. Made with a low carb and gluten-free dough, these bread sticks are topped with Italian seasoning and garlic butter for a flavorful and satisfying snack. Dip them in some sugar-free marinara sauce for a complete appetizer.
The History of Italian Cream Cheese
Italian cream cheese, also known as mascarpone, has been a beloved ingredient in Italian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, where it was first made by farmers who used leftover cream from their cows. The name "mascarpone" comes from the Lombard word "mascherpa," which means "to curdle." This refers to the process of making the cheese, where the cream is heated and curdled with an acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar.
The Traditional Recipe
The traditional recipe for Italian cream cheese involves heating cream and adding an acid to create curds. The curds are then drained and pressed to remove excess liquid, resulting in a rich and creamy cheese. This process is still used today, but modern techniques have made it easier and more efficient to produce large quantities of mascarpone.
Uses in Italian Cuisine
Italian cream cheese is used in a variety of dishes in Italian cuisine. It is a key ingredient in many desserts, such as tiramisu and cheesecake, as well as savory dishes like pasta sauces and risottos. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor add a depth of flavor to these dishes, making them rich and indulgent.
Recipe for Homemade Italian Cream Cheese
If you want to try making your own Italian cream cheese at home, here is a simple and delicious recipe to follow:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it reaches 190 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and salt.
3. Let the mixture cool for 10 minutes, then pour it through a cheesecloth-lined strainer.
4. Gather the edges of the cheesecloth and tie them together, then hang the bundle over a bowl for 2-3 hours to allow the excess liquid to drain out.
5. Once drained, transfer the mascarpone to a container and refrigerate for at least 12 hours before using.
In Conclusion
Italian cream cheese, also known as mascarpone, is a versatile and delicious ingredient that has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. By learning the history behind this ingredient and trying out a homemade recipe, you can add a touch of authentic Italian flavor to your dishes. So why not give it a try and elevate your cooking to the next level!
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