Gorgonzola Cream Sauce

Gorgonzola cream sauce, a luscious concoction of creamy richness punctuated by the bold flavors of Gorgonzola cheese, is a culinary delight that adds a luxurious touch to various dishes. Originating from Italy, this sauce has gained popularity worldwide for its velvety texture and intense, savory taste.

To create this indulgent sauce, one starts with a base of cream, which serves as the canvas for the Gorgonzola cheese to work its magic. Gorgonzola, a blue cheese hailing from Italy’s Lombardy and Piedmont regions, is renowned for its piquant flavor profile, tangy notes, and distinctive earthy aroma. When melted into the cream, it imparts a depth of creamy, tangy, and slightly sharp flavor.

Making the Sauce

To create this indulgent sauce, one starts with a base of cream, which serves as the canvas for the Gorgonzola cheese to work its magic. Gorgonzola, a blue cheese hailing from Italy’s Lombardy and Piedmont regions, is renowned for its piquant flavor profile, tangy notes, and distinctive earthy aroma. It imparts a depth of creamy, tangy, and slightly sharp flavor when melted into the cream.

While requiring finesse, the process of making Gorgonzola cream sauce is surprisingly simple. A chef begins by gently heating heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Then, crumbled Gorgonzola cheese is gradually added to the warm cream, allowing it to melt slowly and incorporate into the mixture. This gradual melting process ensures the cheese fully blends with the cream, producing a smooth and cohesive sauce.

Various ingredients can be introduced to enhance the sauce’s flavor profile, depending on personal preference and the intended dish. Garlic, shallots, and white wine are common additions, adding complexity and depth to the sauce. A splash of white wine not only infuses the sauce with a subtle sweetness but also helps balance the richness of the cream and cheese.

Once all the ingredients have melded together harmoniously, the sauce is typically seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Some chefs may add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and cut through the sauce’s richness.

Where Is Gorgonzola Cheese Made?

Gorgonzola cheese is traditionally made in Italy, primarily in the regions of Lombardy and Piedmont. The cheese takes its name from the town of Gorgonzola, located in the Lombardy region, where it is believed to have originated. This blue-veined cheese has a long history dating back to at least the 9th century, making it one of the oldest blue cheeses in the world.

The majority of Gorgonzola is produced today in the neighboring city of Novara, a city located in the Piedmont region of Italy. Lombardy is one of the main regions where Gorgonzola cheese is traditionally made.

Italian and European Union laws strictly regulate the production of Gorgonzola cheese to ensure its authenticity and quality. It is made from pasteurized cow's milk and inoculated with specific strains of Penicillium mold, which give the cheese its distinctive blue veins and tangy flavor. Gorgonzola cheese comes in two main varieties: Dolce (meaning sweet) and Piccante (meaning spicy). Dolce Gorgonzola is younger, milder, and creamier, while Piccante Gorgonzola is aged longer, resulting in a stronger, more pungent flavor.

How to Use Gorgonzola Cream Sauce

Gorgonzola cream sauce is incredibly versatile and can enhance the flavor of a wide range of dishes. Here are some delicious ideas for what to serve with gorgonzola cream sauce:

Pasta: Toss the gorgonzola cream sauce with cooked pasta such as fettuccine, penne, or gnocchi for a luxurious and comforting meal. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a decadent dish perfect for any occasion.
Steak: Drizzle gorgonzola cream sauce over grilled or pan-seared steak for an indulgent twist on a classic dish. The creamy sauce complements the rich flavor of the steak, adding depth and complexity to each bite.
Chicken: Serve gorgonzola cream sauce alongside roasted or grilled chicken breasts or thighs for a flavorful and elegant meal. The creamy sauce adds moisture and richness to the chicken, making it even more delicious.
Vegetables: Use gorgonzola cream sauce as a dip for roasted vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or asparagus. The creamy sauce adds flavor to the vegetables, making them irresistible.
Burgers: Spread gorgonzola cream sauce onto burgers for a gourmet twist on a classic favorite. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the juicy burger patties, creating a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures.
Pizza: Use gorgonzola cream sauce as a base for homemade pizza topped with caramelized onions, mushrooms, and crispy bacon. The creamy sauce adds richness and depth to the pizza, taking it to the next level of deliciousness.
Seafood: For a sophisticated and flavorful meal, serve gorgonzola cream sauce alongside grilled or baked fish such as salmon or halibut. The creamy sauce complements the delicate flavor of the seafood, creating a harmonious pairing.
Sandwiches: For a gourmet twist, spread gorgonzola cream sauce on sandwiches such as grilled cheese or panini. The creamy sauce adds a burst of flavor and richness, making the sandwiches irresistible.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but the possibilities are endless when serving gorgonzola cream sauce. Get creative and experiment with different dishes to discover your favorite combinations!

📖 Recipe

Print Recipe

Gorgonzola Cream Sauce

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: Sauces

Cuisine: French

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

2 cups cream
2 ounces Gorgonzola cheese
salt & white pepper to taste

Instructions

Add the cream to a saucepan and bring to a slow boil. Reduce the cream by two-thirds, which will take 5 - 8 minutes.
Remove the pan from the stove and add the Gorgonzola. Stir until the Gorgonzola melts.
Season with salt and white pepper.