28 Mascarpone Recipes That Instantly Elevate Any Dish

Get the recipe: Fresh Berry Mascarpone Pizza al Metro

Mascarpone cheese is Italian cream cheese popular in the Lombardy Region of Northern Italy. It dates back to the Middle Ages and was given the P.A.T. (Prodotto agroalimentare tradizionale) or "traditional regional food product" label so that no other country can claim its origin. It's used to add an extra creamy, luscious quality to everything from pasta and soups to decadent desserts and once you try these 28 mascarpone recipes, there's no going back.

Related: 7 No-Bake Cream Cheese Desserts

What is Mascarpone Cheese?

Mascarpone cheese is made from only two ingredients: cream and citric acid and has a higher fat content than traditional American cream cheese, making it a delicious alternative. I am particularly fond of the Vermont Creamery brand of mascarpone cheese, as it is ridiculously creamy and super delicious. I try to use it as much as possible when I want to elevate otherwise ordinary recipes.

Where to Buy Mascarpone Cheese

Mascarpone cheese can be purchased at most grocery stores, near the cream cheese and crème fraîche section.

Different Ways to Use It

Although using mascarpone is widely associated with desserts, like Lemon Mascarpone Cake and classic Tiramisu, it's also wonderful used in savory recipes such as Smoked Salmon and Mascarpone, Pancetta and Mascarpone Anelli and Braised Beef and Mascarpone Polenta. It's often found as a main ingredient in pasta sauces adding to the creaminess and flavor of the dish. And can be added to both polenta and risotto to enrich the thickness and flavor.