Name: Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ripe but firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou); 1/3 cup blue cheese (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or preferred type); 1–2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons chopped toasted walnuts or pecans; Fresh thyme leaves or arugula (optional, for garnish); 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)

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Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears are a beautifully simple appetizer that I love to serve when I want something refined, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. These tender pear halves are filled with creamy blue cheese, finished with a drizzle of honey, and topped with toasted nuts or herbs for the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy. Whether I’m hosting a holiday dinner or a wine night with friends, they always impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines contrasting flavors and textures into one elegant bite. The sweetness of ripe pears pairs so well with the bold, salty flavor of blue cheese. Add a drizzle of honey and some crunch from nuts, and I get a dish that feels upscale without being complicated. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for different diets with a few simple swaps.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe but firm pears (like Bosc or Anjou)
Blue cheese (Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or your favorite variety)
Honey
Chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted)
Fresh thyme or arugula (optional, for garnish)
Lemon juice (to prevent pears from browning)

Directions

I start by cutting the pears in half lengthwise and scooping out the cores with a spoon or melon baller.
I rub the cut sides with a bit of lemon juice to keep them from browning.
I place the pears cut-side up on a serving tray or baking sheet, depending on whether I’m serving them warm or cold.
I fill each hollow with a generous spoonful of blue cheese.
If serving warm, I bake the pears at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes until just softened and the cheese is slightly melted. If serving cold, I keep them chilled until ready to serve.
Just before serving, I drizzle with honey and sprinkle with toasted nuts. A few fresh thyme leaves or arugula on the side adds a lovely visual and herbal touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings (one pear per person, halved) and takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10–12 minutes of cook time (if baking), for a total of around 20–25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap blue cheese for goat cheese or Brie for a milder flavor. If I want more savory depth, I add a crack of black pepper or a few drops of balsamic glaze. For a fancier presentation, I serve the pears on a bed of arugula dressed lightly with lemon juice and olive oil. If I need a nut-free option, I skip the nuts and use crispy shallots or sunflower seeds instead.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I prefer eating them cold, but I can reheat them gently in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5–7 minutes if I want to serve them warm again. I add the honey and garnishes fresh right before serving to keep the textures and flavors just right.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the pears and fill them with cheese a few hours in advance. I keep them covered in the fridge and add the honey and nuts just before serving.

What kind of blue cheese works best?

I like using a creamy Gorgonzola or Danish blue for its smooth texture and strong flavor, but any variety that crumbles nicely will work.

Should I serve these warm or cold?

Both ways are delicious. I serve them cold for a crisp, fresh appetizer or warm when I want something more comforting and rich.

What can I use instead of honey?

I sometimes use maple syrup or a balsamic reduction if I want a slightly different sweetness or a more savory twist.

Are these suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, as long as the blue cheese is made without animal rennet, these are a great vegetarian-friendly appetizer.

Conclusion

Elegant Blue Cheese Stuffed Pears are one of my go-to recipes when I want something that looks impressive but is effortless to make. The mix of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors makes each bite memorable, and they always feel special, no matter the occasion. Whether I’m entertaining or treating myself, these pears bring a touch of sophistication to the table.