Pappardelle with Gorgonzola and Walnuts (30 Minutes)

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Here is a rich and elegant pasta dish that combines the bold flavors of creamy Gorgonzola cheese with the earthy crunch of walnuts. This dish is a wonderful choice for those who appreciate the luxurious textures and deep flavors in their pasta.

Pappardelle, with its wide, ribbon-like noodles, is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, ensuring each bite is as flavorful as the last. Ideal for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is simple to prepare yet offers a gourmet dining experience.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb pappardelle pasta
  • 1 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped and toasted
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta (10-12 minutes): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
  2. Toast Walnuts (5 minutes): In a dry skillet, toast the chopped walnuts over medium heat until they are fragrant and slightly browned. Set aside.
  3. Make Gorgonzola Sauce (5-7 minutes): In the same pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the heavy cream and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce (3 minutes): Return the cooked pappardelle to the pot with the Gorgonzola sauce. Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
  5. Serve with Walnuts and Parmesan (2 minutes): Serve the pasta hot, topped with toasted walnuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Notes

To perfect this dish, focus on balancing the richness of the Gorgonzola with the cream. The walnuts add a delightful crunch and earthiness that contrasts well with the creamy pasta. Be careful not to overcook the pasta – it should be al dente to hold up against the rich sauce.

This dish can be customized to your liking – consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or some sautéed spinach for color and nutrition. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy your meal!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 700
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 65g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Pair this with...

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"Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab some fresh asparagus stalks and snap off the woody ends—no knife needed, they'll naturally break where the tender part starts. Then, take a slice of thin prosciutto and wrap it snugly around each asparagus stalk, spiraling from one end to the other. Lay these wrapped beauties side by side on a baking tray. A sprinkle of black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil will amplify the flavors. Slide them into the oven for about 10-12 minutes. You're aiming for the prosciutto to crisp up a bit and the asparagus to be tender yet still have some bite. When they're ready, plate them up, maybe with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad

Start with a base of mixed greens, combining varieties like arugula, spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you love. Slice up a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Next, peel and shave or thinly slice a carrot for a sweet and crunchy addition. Now, here's where you get to be creative. Raid your fridge for veggies – maybe some leftover bell peppers, slices of cucumber, or even some steamed broccoli or green beans. Toss them all into your salad. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing, give it a good mix, and you've got a vibrant, crunchy, and fresh salad that goes well with just about any meal.

Homemade Boule Loaf

Grab 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 packet (or 2 ¼ tsp) of active dry yeast, about 1 ½ cups warm water, and 1 ½ tsp salt. Dissolve that yeast in warm water and let it sit until it's foamy, around 5 minutes. Now, mix in the flour and salt, get your hands dirty, and knead until smooth. Let the dough rise in a cozy spot until it's doubled in size, about an hour. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Shape your dough into a ball and score the top with an "X" or design of your choosing. Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool and enjoy the magic of homemade bread.

Hi, I'm Alaina! As a busy mom of two, I'm tired of always wondering "what's for dinner?" That's why I created this website; to share easy and tasty recipe ideas the whole family will love. If you're not subscribed yet, join 47,098 others here - thanks for stopping by!