When it comes to comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a warm, gooey mozzarella ball. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping appetizer, these creamy little bites are sure to please. And the best part? They’re incredibly versatile! From classic caprese salads to innovative pasta bakes and savory flatbreads, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering mozzarella ball recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Italy’s favorite cheese, highlighting creative twists on traditional dishes as well as bold new flavors. Whether you’re a foodie looking to spice up your menu or just a cheese lover at heart, these recipes are sure to delight. So grab a plate of pasta and get ready to indulge in the creamiest, most decadent mozzarella balls you’ve ever tasted!
Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella Balls
This classic Italian salad is a simple yet elegant combination of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. With only three ingredients, this recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls
– 2 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Place a few mozzarella balls on top of the tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the mozzarella.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, as this salad is best enjoyed fresh.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking at all. Just assemble the ingredients and enjoy!
Baked Mozzarella Balls with Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian appetizer gets a homemade twist with these crispy baked mozzarella balls served with a rich and tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for game days, parties, or as a snack to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Dip each mozzarella round 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.
6. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Mozzarella Ball Stuffed Garlic Bread
Elevate your garlic bread game with this creamy and savory recipe that combines the richness of mozzarella cheese with the pungency of garlic. This indulgent treat is perfect for snacking, party appetizers, or as a side dish for your favorite pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin balls
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and spread the minced garlic evenly on each half.
3. Place a few mozzarella balls onto one half of the bread, leaving a small border around them.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella balls.
5. Fold the other half of the bread over the filling to form a sandwich.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Ball Pasta Bake
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the comfort of mozzarella cheese with the simplicity of a weeknight meal. This Creamy Mozzarella Ball Pasta Bake is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup creamy pasta sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mozzarella balls, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss to combine.
6. Add the creamy pasta sauce and toss until well coated.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella balls if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Peach and Mozzarella Ball Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the creaminess of mozzarella balls, all on a bed of crisp arugula. A perfect blend of flavors and textures for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, formed into balls
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine grilled peaches, mozzarella balls, olive oil, and balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with arugula leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Mozzarella Balls with Spicy Aioli
These crispy fried mozzarella balls are served with a side of spicy aioli, providing the perfect balance of textures and flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Beat the egg in a separate bowl.
3. Dip each cube of mozzarella cheese into the egg, then roll in breadcrumb mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the mozzarella balls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve with Spicy Aioli (mix together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lemon juice).
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including frying time.
Mozzarella Ball and Tomato Skewers
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make Mozzarella Ball and Tomato Skewers recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying bite. These colorful skewers combine the creaminess of mozzarella with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh basil leaves
– Wooden skewers (about 6 inches long)
Instructions:
1. Cut the mozzarella ball into small pieces.
2. Alternate threading the tomato halves and mozzarella pieces onto the wooden skewers.
3. Finish each skewer with a fresh basil leaf.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! These skewers are best served at room temperature.
Spinach and Mozzarella Ball Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with this creamy and flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken breasts, spinach, mozzarella cheese, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, mozzarella cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-mozzarella mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place 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 Ball and Basil Pizza
This recipe brings together the flavors of fresh mozzarella, sweet basil, and crispy crust to create a deliciously simple pizza. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (about 12-15 balls)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange the mozzarella balls on one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the mozzarella balls.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal.
6. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Vegetable and Mozzarella Ball Tart
Roasted Vegetable and Mozzarella Ball Tart Recipe
A savory tart filled with roasted vegetables and creamy mozzarella balls, perfect as an appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella ball, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Spread the roasted vegetables over one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
3. Arrange the sliced mozzarella balls on top of the vegetables.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the tart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Prosciutto Wraps
Mozzarella Ball and Prosciutto Wraps: A Delicious Italian-Inspired Appetizer
Elevate your next gathering with this easy-to-make, mouthwatering appetizer that combines the creamy richness of mozzarella with the salty sweetness of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella (about 8 oz)
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the mozzarella ball into 6 equal pieces.
2. Wrap each piece of mozzarella with a slice of prosciutto, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
3. Drizzle the wrapped mozzarella balls with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembled and served immediately)
Creamy Mozzarella Ball Risotto
This creamy risotto dish features tender Arborio rice, rich mozzarella cheese, and a pop of flavor from fresh parsley. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Warm the broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to the rice mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments and stirring until absorbed, until all broth is used (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
Mozzarella Ball and Pesto Panini
Elevate your panini game with this creamy and flavorful combination of melted mozzarella, fresh pesto, and crispy bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 mozzarella balls (about 1 inch in diameter)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 slices of artisanal bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. Place one slice of bread on the bottom, followed by a mozzarella ball, a dollop of pesto, and another slice of bread.
4. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a slice of bread on top.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the sandwich and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the panini in the press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Mozzarella Balls
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the creamy goodness of mozzarella balls, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella balls, whole or sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, cook mozzarella balls according to package instructions (usually microwave-safe).
8. Serve stuffed mushrooms with warm mozzarella balls.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this quick and delicious recipe that combines the creaminess of mozzarella balls with the savory flavor of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (60g) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, olive oil, flour, and salt. Whisk until smooth and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and stir in sun-dried tomatoes and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the mozzarella mixture and top with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bruschetta with Mozzarella Balls and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy-to-make Tuscan-inspired bruschetta featuring creamy mozzarella balls and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until lightly browned.
3. Cut the mozzarella ball into small cubes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the mozzarella with a pinch of salt and pepper, and bake for 5-7 minutes or until slightly melted.
5. Brush the toasted baguette slices with garlic and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
6. Top each slice with a few mozzarella cubes and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines creamy mozzarella balls with ripe avocado, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to delight!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the mozzarella cheese into small balls.
2. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit. Slice each half into thin pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the mozzarella balls, avocado slices, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Garlic Butter Mozzarella Ball Breadsticks
Elevate your snack game with these savory and cheesy breadsticks, featuring the richness of garlic butter and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for parties or movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Add olive oil, salt, and 1 cup of flour. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add remaining flour and Parmesan cheese. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
5. Place mozzarella cheese in center of each breadstick, leaving a small border around edges. Fold the dough over to seal, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with garlic butter (mix minced garlic and softened butter) and bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and flavorful dip, paired with crispy mozzarella balls for a perfect combination. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the beaten eggs and mix until a dough forms.
4. Cut mozzarella cheese into small pieces and shape into balls.
5. Dip each ball into the dough, then roll in flour to coat.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, heat roasted red peppers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm mozzarella balls with roasted red pepper dip.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Mozzarella Ball and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your snacking game with this simple yet impressive combination of creamy mozzarella, fragrant herbs, and savory olive tapenade.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for serving (optional)
– Olive Tapenade (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, parsley, basil, and garlic powder.
3. Mix well until the cheese is evenly coated with the herb mixture.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the mozzarella is melted and slightly golden.
6. Serve warm with Olive Tapenade for dipping. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 creamy mozzarella ball recipes! From classic Caprese salad to stuffed garlic bread, and from pasta bakes to paninis, these mouthwatering dishes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive party appetizer, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creative and delicious recipes. So go ahead, get inspired, and start cooking up some creamy mozzarella goodness!
