Pistachio and Mushroom Cheesecake with Feta & Parmesan Crust

Are you ready to treat your taste buds to something truly special? This Pistachio and Mushroom Cheesecake with Feta & Parmesan Crust is a savory delight that’s sure to steal the show at your next gathering! Whether you’re a fan of rich, earthy mushrooms or love the nutty crunch of pistachios, this dish brings together layers of flavor in a way that’s both indulgent and sophisticated. The creamy filling, paired with the salty feta and crunchy pistachio crust, makes this savory cheesecake a memorable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is nothing short of spectacular, and here’s why:

• Unique Flavor: A savory cheesecake? Yes, please! The combination of mushrooms, creamy cheeses, and the subtle nuttiness from the pistachios is a flavor profile you’ll fall in love with.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This dish is a fantastic option for dinner parties or special occasions when you want to surprise your guests with something unexpected.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a standout side. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature!
• Nutty & Crunchy Crust: The crust is the perfect balance of salty, crunchy, and nutty, thanks to the pistachios, feta, and Parmesan.

Trust me, the smell when this is in the oven is irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the crust:

• 1/2 cup pistachios, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

For the filling:

• 2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Springform pan (9-inch recommended)
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make Pistachio and Mushroom Cheesecake

Let’s break this down step by step. You’re going to love how easy and rewarding it is to make!

Step 1: Make the Crust

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped pistachios, crumbled feta cheese, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well-coated in the butter and has a slightly crumbly texture.

Take your springform pan, and press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom. Make sure it’s compact so it holds its shape when baked. Pop the crust into the oven for 10 minutes, or until it’s golden and firm. Remove and set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped mushrooms and minced garlic, sautéing until the mushrooms are soft and most of their moisture has evaporated. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Set them aside to cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add the sour cream, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until fully combined and creamy. Now, fold in the sautéed mushrooms and season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the creamy mushroom mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and has a slight golden hue on top.

Once baked, allow the cheesecake to cool for at least 10 minutes before removing it from the springform pan.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your Pistachio and Mushroom Cheesecake with fresh thyme sprigs and an extra sprinkle of chopped pistachios for a gorgeous finish. You can serve it warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s going to be a hit!

What to Serve with This Savory Cheesecake

This cheesecake is rich and flavorful on its own, but if you want to create a complete meal, consider these pairings:

• Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved Parmesan will complement the richness of the cheesecake.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted veggies like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add a vibrant and healthy side.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping and enjoying with the creamy filling.

Tips for the Best Cheesecake

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and sour cream are softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the filling.
2. Don’t Overmix the Filling: Overbeating the eggs can introduce too much air into the filling, causing it to crack or puff up.
3. Let It Cool: Give your cheesecake time to cool slightly before serving so the flavors have a chance to settle and the texture firms up.
4. Customize the Filling: Want to change things up? Try adding caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or even spinach for extra flavor.

Storage Instructions

Have leftovers? No problem! This cheesecake stores well in the fridge. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can enjoy cold slices or warm them slightly in the oven before serving.

FAQs about Savory Cheesecake

Q: Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cheesecake a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just let it come to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving.

Q: Can I freeze savory cheesecake?
Yes, you can! Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Q: What other cheeses can I use in the crust?
If you don’t have feta or Parmesan on hand, you can substitute with goat cheese, ricotta, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor twist.

Q: Can I use other nuts besides pistachios?
Yes, feel free to substitute pistachios with walnuts, almonds, or pecans for the crust.

Conclusion

This Pistachio and Mushroom Cheesecake with Feta & Parmesan Crust is a must-try for any adventurous foodie! It’s unique, flavorful, and perfect for adding a wow factor to your meals. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at brunch, dinner parties, or even as a holiday appetizer. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Looking for more delicious cheesecakes? Be sure to check out these other amazing recipes:

• Refreshing Lime Mousse Cheesecake
• No-Bake Peanut Butter Cheesecake
• Luscious Lemon Lime Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake

Don’t forget to leave a comment below or share your creation on Pinterest! I’d love to see your photos—visit me at EMMARECIPES18 on Pinterest.

Print