Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy goodness! Mozzarella cheese is a staple ingredient in many cuisines, and when combined with other flavors, it becomes truly irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian dishes or looking for creative twists on old favorites, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious recipes that showcase the creamy, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese. From pizzas and pasta bakes to salads and sandwiches, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy any cheesy craving.
Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Mozzarella
This simple yet iconic pizza recipe showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients, requiring only a few key components to create an unforgettable taste experience. With its delicate balance of flavors and textures, this classic margherita pizza is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and sugar (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the olive oil evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the dough, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Sprinkle with salt and sugar (if using).
6. Top with fresh basil leaves.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Stuffed Garlic Bread
Transform ordinary garlic bread into an extraordinary treat with this creamy mozzarella stuffed twist!
Ingredients:
• 1 (14.1 oz) loaf Italian-style bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic and softened butter.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on each bread half.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter layer.
6. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Caprese Salad
Elevate the classic Italian salad by adding a creamy twist with this baked mozzarella caprese recipe. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a show-stopping side dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange mozzarella slices on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each slice.
4. Top each mozzarella slice with a tomato round and sprinkle with basil leaves.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze (if using).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Elevate your meatball game with this creamy and savory recipe that combines tender beef, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara 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 into a ball. Flatten each ball slightly and place a tablespoon of mozzarella in the center.
4. Fold the meat over the cheese to form a ball and secure with toothpicks if needed.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with marinara sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive chicken breast recipe, filled with the creamy goodness of mozzarella cheese and the nutrients of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, garlic, and mozzarella 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. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crispy Mozzarella Arancini Balls
Transforming leftover risotto into crispy, cheesy bites has never been easier! This recipe yields a delicious and addictive snack that’s perfect for game days or impromptu gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked risotto
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Mozzarella balls (about 20-25)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together risotto, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Flatten each portion slightly.
4. Place a mozzarella ball in the center of each risotto patty. Fold the edges over the mozzarella to form a ball, pressing gently to seal.
5. Dip each arancini ball in olive oil and then coat with breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between each ball.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Elevate your snack game with these creamy and crispy cheese sticks made from scratch! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the perfect combination of melted mozzarella and crunchy bread in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 12-15 slices of baguette (about 1 inch thick)
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and salt.
4. Dip each baguette slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the coated bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top each bread slice with a piece of mozzarella cheese, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese sticks.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley or basil, if desired.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mozzarella and Tomato Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering, this mozzarella and tomato bruschetta is a simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast until crispy.
3. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Top toasted bread with a slice of mozzarella cheese, followed by a spoonful of the tomato mixture.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Mozzarella and Pesto Panini
Elevate your sandwich game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. The combination of melted mozzarella, creamy pesto, and crispy bread is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rustic Italian bread
– 2 tablespoons of pesto
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, olive oil, and garlic.
3. Brush both sides of the bread with the pesto mixture.
4. Place one slice of bread on the grill and top with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per side
Mozzarella-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the earthy flavor of portobello mushrooms with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture onto the mushroom caps, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place a mozzarella round on each mushroom cap.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Pasta Bake
A comforting, cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 1 cup cream
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pasta is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Salad
This classic Italian-inspired salad is a perfect combination of creamy mozzarella cheese, fragrant basil leaves, and tangy balsamic glaze. Enjoy it as an appetizer or side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the mozzarella slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves evenly over the mozzarella.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad, making sure each piece of cheese is coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep only)
Mozzarella and Prosciutto Roll-Ups
Elevate your appetizer game with these flavorful roll-ups that combine the creaminess of mozzarella cheese with the salty sweetness of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lay a slice of mozzarella on a flat surface.
3. Place one slice of prosciutto on top of the mozzarella, leaving a small border around it.
4. Roll up the cheese and ham tightly, but gently, to form a neat roll.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the prosciutto is crispy.
8. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Butter Mozzarella Pull-Apart Bread
Savor the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and melted mozzarella cheese in this mouthwatering pull-apart bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (14.1 oz) pizza dough, thawed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined. Spread evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter mixture.
5. Fold the 1-inch border of dough up over the filling to form a neat package.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella and Roasted Red Pepper Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the creaminess of mozzarella cheese with the sweetness of roasted red peppers. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note), sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, salsa, or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with mozzarella cheese.
3. Top with sliced roasted red peppers.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until tortilla is lightly browned and cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes, until other side is also lightly browned.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Dip with Herbs
Elevate your snack game with this creamy, cheesy, and aromatic dip that’s perfect for parties or a cozy night in. This recipe combines the richness of mozzarella with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and parsley until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is warm, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve: Warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Perfect with crackers, chips, or veggies!
Mozzarella and Sausage Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this innovative recipe that combines the creaminess of mozzarella with the savory flavor of sausage. This twist on traditional stuffed shells is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, shredded
– 1/2 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage-mozzarella mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Peach and Mozzarella Salad
A sweet and savory summer salad featuring grilled peaches, creamy mozzarella, and a hint of basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush peach slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey.
5. Arrange grilled peaches, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil (if using) on a serving platter.
6. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mozzarella and Sun-Dried Tomato Frittata
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, flavorful frittata packed with mozzarella and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick morning meal or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until edges start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes over the eggs.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Homemade Mozzarella Pizza Rolls
Transform your pizza night into a fun and easy snack with these delightful mozzarella pizza rolls. Perfect for a quick gathering or party, they’re sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional toppings: pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, etc.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Spread a tablespoon of marinara sauce over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add your desired toppings (if using).
6. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling to form a roll shape.
7. Brush the tops with olive oil and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of mozzarella cheese with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic margherita pizza and creamy stuffed garlic bread, to baked caprese salads and savory meatballs, there’s something for every cheese lover. Satisfy your cravings with crispy arancini balls, homemade mozzarella sticks, or decadent pasta bakes. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad or a comforting, cheesy dip, this collection has it all. So go ahead, get creative, and let the melty goodness of mozzarella be your guide!
