Are you looking for some delicious dinner ideas that feature the star of the show: mozzarella cheese? Look no further! Mozzarella is a classic Italian cheese known for its creamy texture and mild flavor. When melted, it adds a richness and depth to any dish. In this article, we’ll explore 18 creative recipes that showcase the versatility of mozzarella. From classic margherita pizza to stuffed chicken breasts and cheesy breads, these dishes are sure to become new family favorites.
We’ll start with some timeless Italian classics, including a traditional margherita pizza and a simple yet impressive caprese salad featuring fresh tomatoes and basil. Then we’ll move on to some more adventurous recipes, such as mozzarella-stuffed meatballs and creamy mac and cheese. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or exciting and new, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to hit the spot.
Classic Margherita Pizza
Savor the simplicity of Italy’s most iconic pizza with this timeless recipe, featuring fresh mozzarella, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant basil. This classic margherita pizza is a masterclass in understated elegance.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-protein flour
– 625ml lukewarm water
– 10g active dry yeast
– 2 tbsp (30g) extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 12 oz (340g) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
2. Combine flour, yeast, and salt in a mixing bowl.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water, then knead for 5 minutes.
4. Form dough into a ball, let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to 12-inch (30cm) diameter.
6. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough.
7. Top with mozzarella slices and chopped basil.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy mozzarella stuffed masterpiece. A flavorful and moist dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together softened butter, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with mozzarella slices, dividing evenly among the four.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella and Tomato Caprese Salad
This classic Italian salad is a staple for any gathering, showcasing the perfect union of creamy mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this delicious and easy-to-make salad in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Place the mozzarella slices on top of the tomatoes.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic vinegar.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes. Enjoy!
Baked Mozzarella Garlic Bread
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make Baked Mozzarella Garlic Bread recipe. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a side to your favorite pasta dish, this cheesy delight is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto the cut side of the bread.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the bread, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this creative recipe that combines the richness of mozzarella cheese with tender beef and pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated 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, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
4. Flatten each meatball slightly in the center to create a pocket.
5. Place a tablespoon of mozzarella cheese inside each meatball.
6. Fold the meat over the cheese, making sure it’s sealed tightly.
7. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and spinach-filled twist on traditional stuffed shells. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-mozzarella mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella and Basil Pesto Panini
Transform ordinary paninis into a flavorful Italian-inspired treat with this simple recipe. Fresh mozzarella, basil, and pesto come together to create a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Italian or baguette)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay slices of bread on a clean work surface.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each bread slice.
4. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto on top of the cheese.
5. Add chopped basil leaves on top of the pesto.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Assemble the paninis by placing the topped slices together, forming a sandwich.
8. Place the paninis in the preheated press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella Pull-Apart Bread
This mouthwatering bread is perfect for snacking or as a side dish for your next gathering. With its gooey mozzarella cheese and buttery goodness, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (14 oz)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the mozzarella cheese and softened butter until well combined.
4. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the dough up over the cheese to create a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mozzarella and Prosciutto Stuffed Mushrooms
A flavorful and elegant appetizer or side dish, these stuffed mushrooms combine the creaminess of mozzarella with the salty sweetness of prosciutto.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 6 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin pieces
– 4-6 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– 2 cloves of 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 small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese and chopped prosciutto.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over mushrooms and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mozzarella-prosciutto mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food gets a creamy twist with this recipe that combines the richness of mozzarella cheese with the simplicity of macaroni. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated mozzarella cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mozzarella and Sausage Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful treat by filling them with mozzarella cheese and savory sausage. This simple recipe yields a satisfying and healthy snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Stuff each pepper with cooked sausage, followed by mozzarella cheese slices.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella and Pesto Grilled Cheese
Elevate the classic grilled cheese sandwich with the creamy richness of mozzarella and the vibrant flavor of pesto. This twist on a comfort food favorite is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 tablespoon of pesto
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of fresh 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 bread slice.
3. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of pesto on the unbuttered side of one bread slice.
4. Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the pesto.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-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 the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe combines the rich flavors of mozzarella cheese, eggplant, and tomato sauce for a delicious twist on classic Italian-American comfort food. With minimal prep time and easy assembly, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzling with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Assemble by placing a layer of tomato sauce on a baking dish, followed by a layer of eggplant slices and mozzarella cheese. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with cheese on top.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Mozzarella and Tomato Bruschetta
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy snack or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Top each toasted bread slice with a piece of mozzarella cheese, a few diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella Garlic Knots
Elevate your snack game with these soft, cheesy, and garlicky knots that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 (13.8 oz) package of pizza dough
– 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut into 8 equal pieces.
3. Place each piece on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each knot.
4. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese and minced garlic.
5. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the knots, placing it in the center of each one.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a knot shape. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mozzarella and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Mozzarella and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms is a mouthwatering twist on the classic mushroom dish. The combination of earthy portobellos, creamy mozzarella, and nutrient-rich spinach will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 large Portobello mushrooms
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach leaves, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the spinach-mozzarella mixture.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mozzarella and Bacon Quiche
A savory twist on the classic quiche, this Mozzarella and Bacon Quiche is perfect for brunch or a quick dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Sprinkle diced bacon and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the toppings.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.
7. Let it cool before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mozzarella and Roasted Red Pepper Flatbread
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet impressive flatbread recipe, featuring creamy mozzarella cheese and sweet roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 large roasted red peppers, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
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 lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top the dough with sliced roasted red peppers and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy goodness with these 18 mouthwatering mozzarella cheese recipes! From classic Margherita Pizza to Creamy Mozzarella Mac and Cheese, there’s something for everyone. Stuff chicken, meatballs, or mushrooms with melted mozzarella for a satisfying main course. Or, try your hand at making cheesy pull-apart bread, garlic knots, or grilled cheese sandwiches. With these easy-to-make recipes, you’ll be the star of any dinner party. So go ahead, get creative, and let the creamy goodness flow!
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