Description
This Pistachio and Mushroom Cheesecake with Feta & Parmesan Crust is a unique and savory twist on the classic cheesecake. With a crunchy, nutty pistachio and cheese crust and a creamy mushroom filling, it’s perfect for dinner parties or a special occasion. The earthy mushrooms combined with rich cheeses and a hint of fresh thyme make this an elegant appetizer or main course. Try it warm or at room temperature!
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Make Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine finely chopped pistachios, crumbled feta, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes until golden and set aside. - Prepare Mushroom Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms and garlic until soft and moisture has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool slightly. - Mix Filling Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sour cream, eggs, and grated Parmesan until smooth. Stir in the sautéed mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. - Bake the Cheesecake:
Pour the mushroom filling over the baked crust. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and slightly golden. - Cool, Garnish & Serve:
Let the cheesecake cool for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make Ahead Tip: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Serve at room temperature or lightly warmed.
- Substitutions: Feel free to swap pistachios for walnuts or almonds, and feta with goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a light salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 100mg