Imagine diving into a creamy, decadent spread that transforms an ordinary gathering into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Baked Truffle Ricotta Spread is not just a recipe—it's a journey into the realm of gourmet indulgence that will elevate your appetizer game from mundane to magnificent. With the rich, earthy notes of truffle oil and the smooth, velvety texture of ricotta, this dish promises to be the star of any table, leaving your guests utterly impressed and craving more.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons truffle oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bread for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will allow the ricotta to warm through and the cheeses to melt beautifully.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese and 2 tablespoons of truffle oil. Use a spatula or a whisk to mix them together until they are well blended and creamy.
- Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the ricotta mixture. Stir until the Parmesan is fully incorporated, giving the spread a rich and savory flavor.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Be cautious with the salt, as the Parmesan cheese can be salty on its own. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Transfer the ricotta and cheese mixture into a small baking dish or oven-safe ramekin. Spread it evenly with the back of a spoon to create a smooth top.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly bubbling. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
- While the spread is baking, prepare your choice of bread for serving. You can use slices of baguette, crostini, or even crackers. Toast the bread lightly if desired for added crunch.
- Once the Baked Truffle Ricotta Spread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve.
- Serve the warm truffle ricotta spread with your prepared bread. You can also drizzle a little extra truffle oil on top for added flavor and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Baked Truffle Ricotta Spread as an appetizer or a delightful snack with friends and family!
Tips
- Quality Matters: Use high-quality ricotta and authentic truffle oil for the most intense flavor profile.
- Temperature Control: Watch your oven carefully to achieve that perfect golden-brown top without burning the spread.
- Seasoning Secrets: Start with a small amount of salt and taste as you go, as Parmesan cheese already adds significant saltiness.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with fresh thyme or finely chopped chives before serving.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Bread Pairing: Choose crusty artisan bread or toasted baguette slices for the best texture contrast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
