Are you ready to take your taste buds on a culinary journey? Look no further than the humble mozzarella ball! This classic Italian staple can be transformed into a wide variety of dishes, from savory snacks to decadent desserts. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and creamy mozzarella ball recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
From classic caprese salads to innovative fusion dishes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these creamy mozzarella ball recipes are guaranteed to hit the spot. So go ahead, get creative, and start building your own mozzarella masterpiece!
Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella balls and basil
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet elegant salad featuring fresh mozzarella balls, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe showcases the best of seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 oz fresh mozzarella balls
– 2 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a serving plate or platter.
2. Place a mozzarella ball on top of each tomato slice.
3. Sprinkle torn basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, if desired (optional).
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 5 minutes.
Baked mozzarella balls with marinara dipping sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with these crispy baked mozzarella balls served with a tangy marinara dipping sauce. Perfect for parties or movie nights, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch balls
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt, to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each mozzarella ball into the egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated mozzarella balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with marinara dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mozzarella-stuffed meatballs in tomato sauce
Elevate your meatball game with this creative twist, where gooey mozzarella cheese is hidden inside tender beef and pork meatballs. Serve these flavorful bites over a rich tomato sauce for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
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 until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each meatball slightly and place 1-2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese in the center.
5. Fold the meat over the cheese to form a ball and seal the edges.
6. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot with tomato sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Garlic butter mozzarella bread bites
A delicious twist on traditional breadsticks, these garlic butter mozzarella bites are perfect as an appetizer or snack. With a crispy exterior and a gooey, cheesy interior, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Dip each bread cube into the garlic butter mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated bread cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each bite.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled peach and mozzarella ball skewers
Grilled Peach and Mozzarella Ball Skewers: Sweet and Savory Harmony
These bite-sized skewers combine the flavors of juicy grilled peaches, creamy mozzarella balls, and a hint of basil for a delightful summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: balsamic glaze or olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Cut the mozzarella ball into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Thread a peach wedge, followed by a mozzarella ball, and finishing with a basil leaf onto each skewer.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the peaches are slightly caramelized and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately, drizzled with balsamic glaze or olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls
This classic Italian dish combines the creamy richness of pesto, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the creaminess of mozzarella balls for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 12-16 mozzarella balls (about 6 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto and cherry tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to release their juices.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the tomato-pesto mixture.
4. Arrange the mozzarella balls on top of the pasta and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried mozzarella balls with spicy aioli
Elevate your snack game with these crispy fried mozzarella balls served with a side of spicy aioli. Perfect for parties or movie nights, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, salt, and garlic powder.
2. Dip each mozzarella ball into the beaten egg and then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry the mozzarella balls in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve with Spicy Aioli.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: For an extra crispy coating, chill the coated mozzarella balls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.
Mozzarella and prosciutto stuffed mushrooms
A twist on the classic caprese salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of mozzarella with the salty, crispy goodness of prosciutto inside a tender mushroom cap.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly cut
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese and a pinch of salt.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Top each mushroom with a slice of prosciutto, folding or tucking it under the mushroom to secure.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the prosciutto is crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bruschetta with mozzarella balls and balsamic glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive Bruschetta recipe featuring mozzarella balls and balsamic glaze!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices (preferably day-old)
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small balls
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the mozzarella balls by rolling each piece into a small sphere shape.
4. Once the bread is toasted, top each slice with a mozzarella ball, a few chopped basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toast time)
Spinach and mozzarella stuffed chicken breasts
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the creaminess of mozzarella cheese with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay 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 with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Margherita pizza with fresh mozzarella balls
This recipe brings together the simplicity of Italian flavors with a twist – using fresh mozzarella balls instead of slices. The result is a delightful combination of creamy, salty cheese and sweet tomato sauce on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
– 2 cups San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Place the dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
4. Spread the crushed tomatoes evenly, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Arrange the fresh mozzarella balls on top of the tomato sauce.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Garnish with basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato mozzarella ball salad with avocado
A fresh and flavorful twist on the classic caprese salad, this recipe adds creamy avocado for a deliciously satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick balls
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Place a mozzarella ball on top of each tomato slice.
3. Sprinkle the diced avocado over the cheese balls.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assemblage only)
Tips:
– Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
– Let the cheese come to room temperature before assembling the salad for easier slicing.
Lemon garlic shrimp with mozzarella balls
Brighten up your dinner table with this citrusy and savory dish that combines succulent shrimp, zesty lemon, and creamy mozzarella. A perfect blend of flavors and textures in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small balls
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and marinate for at least 5 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, place mozzarella balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
7. Serve shrimp hot with mozzarella balls on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Roasted vegetable and mozzarella ball lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this creative twist on the classic Italian dish. By roasting a medley of vegetables and incorporating mozzarella balls, you’ll create a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 bell peppers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
– 2 zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mozzarella balls (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss vegetables with garlic, salt, and pepper; spread on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese and mozzarella balls.
6. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked noodles, roasted vegetables, and cheese mixture.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese; bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mozzarella ball and basil stuffed zucchini boats
Transform summer zucchinis into a flavorful and visually appealing dish by filling them with creamy mozzarella balls, fragrant basil, and a hint of garlic. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into small balls
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the insides to create a “boat” shape.
3. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella balls, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the zucchinis and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with mozzarella balls and roasted garlic
This hearty pasta dish combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the richness of roasted garlic and mozzarella balls. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 large cloves of garlic
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (about 20-25 balls)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add mozzarella balls and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, roasted garlic, and mozzarella balls. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Grilled vegetable and mozzarella ball panini
A flavorful twist on the classic panini, this recipe combines the sweetness of grilled vegetables with the creaminess of mozzarella balls. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 vegetables of your choice (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms)
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, slice the mozzarella ball into thin rounds.
4. Assemble the panini by placing a grilled vegetable slice on each bread slice, followed by a mozzarella round.
5. Top with another bread slice and grill in a panini press or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mozzarella ball and sun-dried tomato stuffed peppers
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Mozzarella balls add a velvety texture, while sun-dried tomatoes bring a burst of savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 12 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, torn into small pieces
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Stuff each pepper with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy mozzarella ball and spinach stuffed shells
A classic Italian-American dish gets a creamy twist with the addition of mozzarella balls and wilted spinach. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top the stuffed shells with additional mozzarella balls (see note) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed mozzarella ball and olive tapenade crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet elegant combination of creamy mozzarella, fragrant herbs, and rich olive tapenade on toasted crostini.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– Olive tapenade (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, parsley, basil, and salt.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices by baking them for 2-3 minutes or broiling for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
6. Spread a dollop of olive tapenade on each toasted crostini round. Top with a herbed mozzarella ball. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of mozzarella balls! This collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes showcases the versatility of this Italian favorite. From classic caprese salads and baked mozzarella bites, to more adventurous dishes like garlic butter bread bites and grilled peach skewers, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at stuffed mushrooms, chicken breasts, or zucchini boats, or opt for a comforting lasagna or pasta dish. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to satisfy with their creamy, cheesy goodness.