Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta?

Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta? - Close-Up Shot of a Can of Anchovies beside Olives

I have left over mascarpone that I don't want to waste



Best Answer

Although my own instinct would be to try using the mascarpone, there are undoubtedly some recipes that might not work.

Consider whether the moisture content, texture, or flavor of ricotta is essential for what your recipe is trying to achieve. For many dishes, such as lasagna or other baked pasta, mascarpone should be no less delicious than ricotta.

However, if your recipe truly needs the specific texture and more subtle flavor of ricotta, then it might be worth waiting until you have some, and make something else with the mascarpone instead of wasting it.

Part of the fun of cooking is experimenting with the ingredients you have on hand, and imagining in your mind how they might taste together. If you can imagine the taste of mascarpone in the dish you're making, then absolutely, you should go for it — it might turn out to be your own special creation!

If you use the mascarpone, I would love to hear what you made and how it turned out!




Pictures about "Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta?"

Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta? - Brown Coffee Beans in White Ceramic Mug
Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta? - Brown Round Fruits in White Ceramic Bowls
Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta? - Close-Up Shot of a Can of Anchovies beside Olives



Quick Answer about "Can I substitute mascarpone for ricotta?"

Due to the differences in texture, taste, and fat content, you should not use mascarpone and ricotta interchangeably in all recipes. You can use ricotta for mascarpone in a pinch—especially for baked goods—but the main difference will be in the texture: Look for a high-quality brand of ricotta with very fine curds.

Can you use mascarpone in lasagna instead of ricotta?

You can also vary the cheese you use for an untraditional lasagna. Mascarpone or cottage cheese can be used to replace the ricotta. Goat cheese, blue cheese, gruyere, swiss, cheddar or muenster cheese can be used instead of mozzarella. Romano or asiago cheese can be used instead of the parmesan.

What is the difference between mascarpone and ricotta cheese?

Ricotta is a medium to low fat Italian curd cheese that has a light, slightly grainy texture. Mascarpone is an Italian cream cheese with a high fat content and a dense texture.



Substitute for Mascarpone Cheese




Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: alleksana, alleksana, alleksana, alleksana