Skip to content

Robert St. John

Restaurateur, author, enthusiastic traveler, & world-class eater.

Italian Sausage and Mascarpone Crostini

This recipe is inspired by Rosanna, a Tuscan woman who cooked dinner for a large group of Mississippians, Milanese, and Tuscan locals at Villa Il Santo. These were served with the first course

Ingredients

1 loaf Ciabatta bread, sliced ¼” thick, about 16 slices
1 TBL Extra virgin olive oil
1 lb Ground Italian sausage
1 tsp Fresh garlic, minced
1/8 tsp Ground allspice
1/8 tsp Ground cloves
pinch Nutmeg
8 oz Mascarpone cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 300.

To par cook the crostinis, place the sliced Ciabatta on a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake until almost crispy, about 10 minutes. Allow to cool completely at room temperature.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and spices and stir frequently until half-way cooked, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool at room temperature.

Divide the partially cooked sausage among the crostinis, about 2-3 tablespoon each. Divide the mascarpone among the top of the sausage. Return to a baking pan lined with parchment paper and finish in the oven until sausage is cooked and cheese is melted, about 8-10 minutes.

Recent Recipes

Shrimp and Butternut Squash Bisque

One of the first recipes I ever created was a shrimp bisque. It’s been a staple at Crescent City Grill for years now, served to countless guests who have come through our doors. Back in those early days in the kitchen, there wasn’t any formal training to rely on— just curiosity, passion, and a willingness to experiment until it was just right. Adding butternut squash wasn’t a part of the original recipe. Though its natural sweetness balances the richness of the shrimp and the cream.

Read more

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

From the upcoming cookbook, Robert St. John’s Mississippi Christmas (due in October)

Read more

Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

If you're looking for a creative twist on traditional hummus, black-eyed pea hummus is a delicious and nutritious option. Made with creamy black-eyed peas, tangy lemon, and a hint of garlic, this dip offers a unique Southern flair while keeping all the classic flavors you love. Perfect as a party appetizer, a spread for sandwiches, or a healthy snack, this recipe is both easy to make and irresistibly tasty.

Read more