Are you a fan of creamy, melty goodness? Look no further! Mozzarella balls are the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, these bite-sized morsels can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that feature mozzarella balls as the star of the show. From classic caprese salads to savory meatballs and pasta bakes, we’ve got you covered. So grab a glass of your favorite wine, pull up a chair, and get ready to be inspired by these mouth-watering Mozzarella Ball Inspired Recipes!
Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella Balls
Celebrate the simplicity of Italian cuisine with this classic Caprese salad featuring fresh mozzarella balls, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This colorful dish is perfect for a quick summer meal or as a refreshing side.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 fresh mozzarella balls (about 1 inch in diameter)
– 2 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for serving (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 chopped basil leaves over the mozzarella balls.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Baked Mozzarella Balls with Marinara Sauce
Baked Mozzarella Balls with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Experience the perfect combination of crispy and creamy with these easy-to-make baked mozzarella balls served with a tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, drained and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each mozzarella piece into the egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated mozzarella balls on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs in Tomato Basil Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this mouthwatering recipe featuring tender meatballs filled with melted mozzarella, served in a rich and flavorful tomato basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form meat mixture into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While meatballs are baking, combine crushed tomatoes and chopped basil in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10-12 minutes.
7. Serve meatballs in tomato basil sauce over pasta or as an appetizer.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Mozzarella Balls
This colorful recipe combines the flavors of grilled vegetables with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, perfect for a quick and easy summer meal or snack. With minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying these tasty skewers in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, onions)
– 8-10 wooden skewers
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Place mozzarella balls on the grill or grill pan and cook until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Brush vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill vegetable skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total.
Mozzarella Ball and Pesto Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this indulgent recipe that combines the creaminess of mozzarella balls with the bright flavors of pesto. This show-stopping dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg.
3. Cut a horizontal slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
4. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with a dollop of pesto on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Ball and Spinach Pasta Bake
A comforting and creamy pasta bake that combines the flavors of melted mozzarella cheese, fresh spinach, and al dente penne pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
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 cherry tomatoes and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Tomato Bruschetta
Experience the simplicity of Italian cuisine with this delightful Mozzarella Ball and Tomato Bruschetta recipe, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Fresh mozzarella cheese and juicy tomatoes come together to create a flavorful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the mozzarella cheese into 8 equal pieces.
3. Shape each piece into a ball by gently stretching and folding the edges towards the center.
4. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Top toasted bread with tomato halves, a mozzarella ball, and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Mozzarella Balls with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with these crispy, cheesy, and utterly addictive mozzarella balls served with a creamy garlic aioli for dipping. Perfect for a quick lunch or a fun gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and breadcrumbs.
2. Dip each mozzarella cube into the beaten egg and then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry coated mozzarella balls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve chilled or at room temperature with fried mozzarella balls.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes for frying the mozzarella balls.
Mozzarella Ball and Basil Pizza Margherita
This recipe brings together the simplicity of a traditional Neapolitan-style pizza with the added delight of crispy mozzarella balls. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 2 cups San Marzano tomatoes
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
2. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
3. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese melted.
5. While pizza is baking, shape mozzarella balls by wrapping slices of cheese in plastic wrap and twisting into small balls.
6. Remove pizza from oven and top with mozzarella balls and fresh basil leaves.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Avocado Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing summer salad combines creamy mozzarella balls with the richness of avocado, all tied together with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the mozzarella into small balls.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado and a pinch of salt.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the avocado, gently tossing to coat.
4. Add the mozzarella balls to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Mozzarella Balls
Elevate your dinner game with these earthy, cheesy delights. Tender portobello mushrooms filled with savory goodness and topped with gooey mozzarella balls will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces mozzarella balls
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean the mushrooms by wiping them with a damp cloth. Remove stems.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and parsley.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Meanwhile, melt cream cheese in the microwave (10 seconds).
9. Remove mushrooms from oven and place mozzarella balls on top of each mushroom cap.
10. Drizzle melted cream cheese over the mozzarella balls.
11. Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until mozzarella is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Roasted Red Pepper Panini
Mozzarella Ball and Roasted Red Pepper Panini: A flavorful twist on the classic panini, this recipe combines creamy mozzarella balls with sweet roasted red peppers for a delightful sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 4 roasted red peppers (see note), sliced into thin strips
– 1 baguette, cut into 3-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, toss mozzarella slices with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the paninis by placing 2-3 slices of mozzarella on each bread piece, followed by a few strips of roasted red pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the filling and top with another bread piece.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Sun-Dried Tomato Quiche
A classic Italian-inspired quiche filled with creamy mozzarella balls, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Place the mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush egg wash over the quiche and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Pesto Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your snacking game with this creamy and flavorful combination of mozzarella balls, pesto, and roasted bell peppers. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. Slice the mozzarella ball into small pieces.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with pesto, then top with mozzarella pieces.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers, season with salt and pepper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Zucchini Fritters
This recipe combines the creamy goodness of mozzarella balls with the crispy delight of zucchini fritters, making it a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, mix together zucchini, flour, paprika, and salt. Add water as needed to form a thick batter.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the zucchini batter into the oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve with mozzarella balls.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Elevate your appetizer game with this elegant and flavorful combination of crispy prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, creamy mozzarella balls, and a touch of fresh parsley.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 asparagus spears
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of prosciutto, securing with toothpicks if needed.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
4. Cut the mozzarella ball into 12-15 pieces.
5. Dip each mozzarella piece into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
6. Place the coated mozzarella balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus with the baked mozzarella balls and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Cherry Tomato Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the creaminess of mozzarella balls with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all tossed together with some crispy basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packs a flavorful punch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella balls, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic glaze
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and cooked pasta.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the top and sprinkle with basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Basil Stuffed Artichokes
A Mediterranean-inspired twist on a classic appetizer, these stuffed artichokes combine the flavors of melted mozzarella, fresh basil, and tender artichoke hearts.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichoke hearts
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into small balls
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the top inch of each artichoke heart, leaving the leaves intact.
3. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella balls, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each artichoke heart with the mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly among the four artichokes.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the artichokes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the artichokes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Mozzarella balls are a delicious addition to many dishes. From classic Caprese salad to creative combinations like mozzarella-stuffed meatballs and chicken breast, these cheesy bites can elevate any meal. In this article, we showcase 18 mouthwatering recipes featuring mozzarella balls as the star of the show. Discover new ways to enjoy them with marinara sauce, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and more. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying main course, these inspired recipes are sure to impress.
