Are you a fan of melty, gooey cheese? Then you’re in luck! Shredded mozzarella cheese is a versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide range of dishes from classic comfort foods to elegant entrees. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that feature shredded mozzarella as the star of the show.
From savory pizzas and pastas to indulgent breadsticks and sandwiches, these easy-to-make recipes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through the world of mozzarella, highlighting some of our favorite dishes that showcase its creamy, melty goodness. So grab a pen and paper (or pull up your tablet) and get ready to scribble down some new recipe ideas!
Classic Margherita Pizza
Experience the simplicity and elegance of this iconic Italian dish with our classic Margherita pizza recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) all-purpose flour
– 0.5 tsp active dry yeast
– 0.5 tsp salt
– 1 cup (240ml) lukewarm water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water while stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and roll out into a 12-inch (30cm) circle.
7. Spread olive oil evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch (1 cm) border.
8. Arrange mozzarella slices on top.
9. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Mozzarella Breadsticks
Elevate your snack game with these addictive garlic mozzarella breadsticks, perfect for parties or a quick treat. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying crispy, cheesy goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness. Cut into 6-8 strips, about 10 inches long.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto each breadstick.
4. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the garlic-infused breadsticks.
5. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste. Garnish with parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, cheesy recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, mozzarella, and juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, mozzarella, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure the filling with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this creative recipe that combines the flavors of Italy and satisfaction. Mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12-15 portions. Flatten each portion slightly and place a tablespoon of mozzarella cheese in the center.
4. Fold the meat over the cheese, forming a ball, and secure any open edges by gently pressing them together.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each for even cooking. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil
This classic Italian salad is a staple for any occasion, and with just three main ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Arrange the tomato slices on a serving plate or platter.
3. Place the mozzarella slices on top of the tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in mere minutes.
Baked Mozzarella Pasta
Savor the creamy, cheesy goodness of this comforting pasta dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and olive oil. Toss to coat.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella Quesadillas
Looking for a quick and delicious snack or meal? These Cheesy Mozzarella Quesadillas are the perfect solution. With melted mozzarella cheese, crispy tortillas, and a hint of spice, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
3. Brush one side of each tortilla with vegetable oil.
4. Place a tortilla, oiled-side down, in the skillet.
5. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture onto the tortilla.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes per quesadilla
Mozzarella and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, creaminess of mozzarella, and crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of baguette
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture onto toasted bread slices.
5. Top each slice with diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped basil (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Three-Cheese Lasagna
Satisfy your cheesy cravings with this rich and creamy lasagna dish, featuring a blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
6. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Mozzarella
A staple of Italian-American cuisine, this Eggplant Parmesan with Mozzarella recipe is a simple and delicious twist on the classic. By using fresh mozzarella cheese and rich tomato sauce, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil for frying
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and oregano.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, then coat in breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the coated eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the fried eggplant to a baking dish, topping with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mozzarella-Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy and flavorful take on classic stuffed mushrooms. Rich mozzarella cheese and savory mushroom caps make for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, garlic, and salt.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and remove stems.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
5. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
This mouthwatering pull-apart bread is filled with a rich blend of melted cheese and savory garlic, making it perfect for any gathering or meal. With its buttery aroma and soft, fluffy interior, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Gradually add warm water and melted butter; mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Roll out dough into a large rectangle, spread cheese and garlic evenly over the top.
6. Fold the dough in half lengthwise, then fold again to form a thick log shape.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with egg wash.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Cheese with Mozzarella and Pesto
This recipe combines the creaminess of mozzarella cheese with the vibrant flavor of pesto, all wrapped up in a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1 tablespoon of pesto
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 slices of mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of pesto on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread.
4. Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto.
5. Place the other slice of bread, buttered side up, on top of the cheese.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized Chicken Parmesan Sliders, featuring crispy breaded chicken, melted mozzarella cheese, and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 slider buns
– 4 slices mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing baked chicken on buns, topping with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mozzarella and Pepperoni Stromboli
A classic Italian-inspired appetizer or snack, this Mozzarella and Pepperoni Stromboli is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With its crispy crust, gooey mozzarella cheese, and savory pepperoni, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 12 slices of pepperoni
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a long rope.
2. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese along the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
4. Add the pepperoni slices on top of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a Stromboli shape.
6. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti
A comforting and satisfying Italian-American dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe combines al dente ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce and cooked ziti pasta. Mix well to coat.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Add the pasta mixture and top with the cheese blend.
6. Sprinkle parsley over the cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Savory peppers filled with a flavorful mix of Italian sausage, melted mozzarella cheese, and aromatic herbs make for a satisfying main course or impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stuff each pepper with cooked sausage, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and garlic.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Recipe
Get ready to elevate your snacking game with these crispy and gooey homemade mozzarella cheese sticks! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Beat the egg in a separate bowl and add it to the cheese mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a long, thin stick.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add 3-4 cheese sticks to the oil.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove the cheese sticks from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tomato Mozzarella Grilled Cheese
Tomato Mozzarella Grilled Cheese: Elevate the classic grilled cheese with the simplicity of fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 large tomato, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a tomato slice, followed by a mozzarella cheese slice.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Mozzarella
Elevate your seafood game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the shrimp.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the creamy goodness of shredded mozzarella cheese with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes. From classic margherita pizza to cheesy baked ziti, this collection has something for everyone. Enjoy melted mozzarella on garlic breadsticks, stuffed into chicken or meatballs, or as a topping for pasta, quesadillas, or bruschetta. You’ll also find creative twists like cheesy garlic pull-apart bread and shrimp with mozzarella. Perfect for any occasion, these recipes are sure to please!