Creamy Gorgonzola & Walnut Pasta with Pear Slices is an elegant yet comforting Italian-inspired dish that beautifully balances bold and delicate flavors. The sharp, tangy creaminess of Gorgonzola cheese melts into a silky sauce, while toasted walnuts add crunch and depth.

Fresh pear slices bring a subtle sweetness that cuts through the richness, creating a harmony that feels refined and indulgent without being heavy.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s sophisticated comfort food. The contrast of creamy, salty cheese with sweet pears and crunchy walnuts makes every bite interesting. It’s quick to prepare, but tastes like something you’d order at a charming Italian trattoria.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Unique balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy
• Restaurant-quality pasta at home
• Simple ingredients with gourmet results
• Perfect for date nights or dinner parties
• Ready in under 30 minutes

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings, Calories, Course & Cuisine

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~610 calories per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or tagliatelle)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz (115 g) Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
• ½ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 2 ripe but firm pears, thinly sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water; drain.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in Gorgonzola until melted and smooth.
6. Season with black pepper and nutmeg if using.
7. Add cooked pasta to sauce, tossing to coat.
8. Add walnuts and pear slices; toss gently.
9. Thin sauce with reserved pasta water if needed.
10. Adjust seasoning and remove from heat.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Boil pasta: Cook until al dente and reserve pasta water.
2. Build sauce base: Melt butter and gently cook garlic.
3. Create cream sauce: Simmer cream and melt cheese.
4. Season: Add pepper and nutmeg.
5. Combine: Toss pasta with sauce.
6. Finish: Fold in pears and walnuts carefully.
7. Serve immediately: Garnish with herbs.

How to Serve

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Gorgonzola crumbles, toasted walnuts, and fresh herbs. A crisp green salad and a glass of dry white wine or light red wine pair beautifully with this dish.

Recipe Tips

• Use firm pears to prevent mushiness
• Don’t overheat Gorgonzola—it can separate
• Toast walnuts for deeper flavor
• Balance salt carefully; Gorgonzola is naturally salty

Variations (In Detail)

• Spinach Gorgonzola Pasta: Add fresh spinach to wilt into sauce
• Chicken & Gorgonzola: Add grilled chicken slices for protein
• Blue Cheese Substitute: Use Roquefort or Stilton
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of cream
• Autumn Version: Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted squash

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Freezing: Not recommended; cream sauce may separate
• Reheating: Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or milk

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or tongs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned pears?
A: Fresh pears are best for texture and flavor.

Q: Is this dish very strong in flavor?
A: Gorgonzola is bold, but pears and cream balance it well.

Q: What pasta shape works best?
A: Short pasta like penne or ribbons like tagliatelle.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: It’s best served fresh for ideal texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Gorgonzola & Walnut Pasta with Pear Slices is a beautifully balanced dish that feels luxurious yet comforting. With its rich cheese sauce, crunchy walnuts, and sweet pear accents, it delivers an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for special dinners or when you want to elevate everyday pasta, this recipe is a true celebration of contrast and harmony on a plate.