Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears are one of my favorite appetizers to serve when I want something simple yet sophisticated. The natural sweetness of ripe pears pairs beautifully with the bold, creamy bite of blue cheese, creating a contrast that feels balanced, fresh, and indulgent. It’s a dish that’s as pretty on the plate as it is satisfying to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick to prepare, visually stunning, and always gets attention at the table. The combination of flavors—sweet, savory, creamy, and tangy—makes each bite feel complex and special. Whether I’m entertaining or just treating myself to a fancy snack, this dish always feels like a win.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ripe but firm pears (Bosc or Anjou work well)
- Blue cheese (crumbled)
- Walnuts or pecans (toasted and chopped)
- Honey or balsamic glaze
- Fresh thyme or arugula (optional, for garnish)
- Optional: lemon juice (to prevent pear browning)
Directions
- I slice the pears in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the core using a spoon or melon baller to make a small cavity.
- I sprinkle the cut side with a little lemon juice if I’m not serving immediately, to keep them from browning.
- I fill each hollowed center with crumbled blue cheese and a few chopped toasted nuts.
- I drizzle with honey or a touch of balsamic glaze for sweetness and acidity.
- I finish with fresh thyme leaves or serve them on a bed of arugula for a peppery contrast.
- I serve immediately, slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 (1 pear makes 2 servings).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: Around 10 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I use goat cheese or brie instead of blue cheese for a milder flavor. I’ve also roasted the pears briefly in the oven to warm and soften them slightly, which deepens their sweetness. For extra crunch, I add pomegranate seeds or thinly sliced radishes.
storage/reheating
I prepare this dish right before serving for the best texture and appearance. If needed, I store assembled pears in the fridge for up to 4 hours, covered. I don’t recommend reheating—this dish is best served fresh and cool or at room temperature.
FAQs
What kind of pears work best?
I usually go with Bosc or Anjou pears—they hold their shape well and have the right balance of firmness and sweetness.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, just slice and prep the pears a couple of hours ahead, keep them chilled, and drizzle with honey or glaze right before serving.
Is there a blue cheese that’s milder?
Absolutely. I use Gorgonzola for a creamy, less pungent blue cheese, or Danish blue for a middle-ground option.
Can I make this without nuts?
Yes. I skip the nuts or use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.
What can I serve this with?
I usually serve these as an appetizer, but they also work beautifully on a cheese board, with a light salad, or even as a fancy side to roasted meats.
Conclusion
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears are one of my favorite ways to serve something that feels both classy and effortless. With just a few ingredients, I can create a dish that’s visually striking and full of flavor. Whether it’s for a dinner party or a quiet evening in, this is one of those recipes that never fails to impress—and satisfy.
Print
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (using 2 pears, yield ~4 halves)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No Bake / Assembly
- Cuisine: Contemporary / Elegant
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears are a simple yet sophisticated appetizer where the sweet firmness of ripe pears meets bold, creamy blue cheese—elevated with toasted nuts and a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
- ¼‑½ cup crumbled blue cheese
- 2 tablespoons toasted and chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tablespoon honey or balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
- Optional: fresh thyme or a small handful of arugula (for garnish)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent pear browning)
Instructions
- Slice each pear in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the core and seeds using a spoon or melon‐baller, creating a small cavity.
- If you’re not serving immediately, sprinkle the cut sides lightly with lemon juice to slow browning.
- Fill each pear cavity with the crumbled blue cheese and then sprinkle the chopped toasted nuts on top.
- Drizzle each stuffed pear with honey or balsamic glaze.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or place the halves on a bed of arugula for a peppery contrast.
- Serve immediately, either slightly chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can use a milder cheese like Gorgonzola or even goat cheese if blue cheese feels too intense.
- For extra richness or a warm version, you can roast the pear halves (cut‑side up) in a 375 °F oven for 8‑10 minutes before stuffing to soften slightly. (Adapted from similar stuffed pear recipes) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- If nut allergies are a concern, substitute toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- This dish works beautifully as an appetizer, a side salad component, or a light dessert when drizzled with extra honey.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pear half
- Cholesterol: undefined
