When it comes to Italian cuisine, one ingredient stands out from the rest – mozzarella cheese. And what’s better than melted mozzarella? Mozzarella balls! Also known as caprese balls or mozzarellini, these bite-sized treats are made by wrapping mozzarella cheese in breadcrumbs and frying them until crispy. But they’re not just a tasty snack on their own – they can also elevate a variety of dishes from salads to pasta bakes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of mozzarella balls.
Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella Balls
A classic Italian salad gets a creative twist with fresh mozzarella balls! This colorful and flavorful dish is perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, sliced
– 1 pint of fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into small balls (about 20-25)
– 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 a mozzarella ball on top of each tomato slice.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, making sure each piece is lightly coated.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves evenly over the salad.
5. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar in a zig-zag pattern over the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Balls with Marinara Sauce
Transform mozzarella balls into a crispy, cheesy delight with this simple recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch balls
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Dip each mozzarella ball into the breadcrumbs, gently coating all sides.
3. Place the coated mozzarella balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the balls and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mozzarella Ball Stuffed Garlic Bread
This recipe combines the simplicity of garlic bread with the indulgence of mozzarella balls, creating a delightful and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
4. Brush the garlic mixture onto each bread round, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Place a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each bread round.
6. Roll each bread round into a ball, ensuring the mozzarella is enclosed.
7. Place the stuffed garlic balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each ball.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Mozzarella Ball Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of creamy mozzarella, tangy marinara sauce, and savory basil, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bow-tie or penne work well)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese balls (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese balls, and chopped basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add marinara sauce and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Mozzarella Balls
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of grilled vegetables with the creamy delight of mozzarella balls, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed colorful bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls (about 8-10)
– 2 tablespoons 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 bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush both sides of the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, place mozzarella balls on a plate or tray.
6. Serve grilled vegetable skewers with warm mozzarella balls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Tomato Bruschetta
Enjoy a flavorful start to your meal with this classic Italian appetizer. Fresh mozzarella balls, crispy bread, and sweet tomatoes come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt, for seasoning
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour and egg. Mix well.
3. Cut mozzarella into small balls and coat each ball in the flour mixture, then roll in breadcrumbs.
4. Place bread slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
5. Top each bread slice with a mozzarella ball, a cherry tomato half, and a sprinkle of salt.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Mozzarella Balls with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your snack game with these crispy fried mozzarella balls served with a tangy and spicy aioli dip. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Dip each mozzarella piece into the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the mozzarella balls for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with Spicy Aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Basil Pesto Pizza
Combine the creamy richness of mozzarella balls with the bright, herby flavor of basil pesto on a crispy pizza crust for a unique and delicious twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 package pizza dough
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mozzarella cheese and a pinch of salt.
3. Using your hands, shape the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 6-8 balls.
4. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Place the mozzarella balls on top of the pesto, leaving a little space between each ball.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the cheese and 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 and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spinach and Mozzarella Ball Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dinner with this indulgent recipe that combines the freshness of spinach, creaminess of mozzarella, and the juiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, mozzarella, garlic, and cream until well combined.
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.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place stuffed 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 Prosciutto Wraps
Elevate your snack game with these creamy, savory wraps filled with melted mozzarella cheese and crispy prosciutto. Perfect for a quick appetizer or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 mozzarella balls (fresh or frozen)
– 6 slices of prosciutto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the mozzarella balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the mozzarella and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, wrap each prosciutto slice around a toothpick (or use skewers if preferred).
7. Once the mozzarella balls are done, remove from the oven and immediately wrap each ball with a prosciutto-wrapped toothpick.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Mozzarella Balls
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes with Mozzarella Balls: A Simple yet Flavorful Antipasto
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted cherry tomatoes with the creamy delight of mozzarella balls, perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch balls
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the cherry tomato halves on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the tomatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Add the mozzarella balls and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Serve the roasted cherry tomatoes with the warm mozzarella balls and garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Avocado Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creaminess of mozzarella cheese with the richness of ripe avocados, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for dressing
Instructions:
1. Cut the mozzarella ball into small pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil leaves.
3. Add the mozzarella pieces to the bowl and gently toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Mozzarella Balls
A decadent seafood treat that combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce and crispy mozzarella balls.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a separate pan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and cook until golden brown, stirring frequently.
5. Meanwhile, roll mozzarella balls into small spheres (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Serve shrimp with garlic butter sauce spooned over top, accompanied by crispy mozzarella balls.
Cooking Time:
– Shrimp and garlic butter sauce: 4-5 minutes
– Mozzarella balls: 3-4 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Combine the creaminess of mozzarella balls with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes for a quick and delicious pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, shape the mozzarella cheese into small balls.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sun-dried tomato mixture, and mozzarella balls. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Mozzarella Balls
Transform ordinary portobello mushrooms into an extraordinary appetizer or main course with this easy-to-make recipe featuring crispy mozzarella balls.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch balls
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each mushroom.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. While the mushrooms are baking, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the mozzarella balls until they’re crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve the stuffed portobello mushrooms with the crispy mozzarella balls on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Olive Tapenade Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this creamy and savory combination of fresh mozzarella, rich olive tapenade, and crispy baguette. Perfect for a quick gathering or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) ball of fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup olive tapenade
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Cut the mozzarella ball into 1-inch thick slices.
4. Spread a small amount of olive tapenade onto each toasted baguette slice.
5. Top with a mozzarella slice, slightly overlapping the edges.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Grilled Peach and Mozzarella Ball Salad
Sweet and savory, this refreshing salad combines the flavors of grilled peaches, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh greens for a perfect summer side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz), cut into small pieces
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic glaze or honey (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. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, mozzarella balls, and grilled peaches.
4. Sprinkle chopped mint leaves over the top and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Pesto Stuffed Shells
This Italian-inspired recipe combines the creaminess of mozzarella balls with the bold flavors of pesto, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells. A perfect twist on traditional stuffed shells, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. pesto sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and pesto sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese mixture, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle egg wash over shells to prevent sticking.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Mozzarella Ball Skewers
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized, flavorful skewers featuring creamy mozzarella balls smothered in a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the mozzarella ball into small cubes.
3. Thread 2-3 mozzarella cubes onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey until well combined.
5. Brush the glaze over the mozzarella balls on the skewers.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the glaze caramelized.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mozzarella Ball and Roasted Red Pepper Panini
This panini combines the creaminess of mozzarella balls with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 mozzarella balls
– 2 roasted red peppers (see note)
– 1 baguette
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
3. Arrange 2-3 mozzarella balls on each half of the baguette.
4. Top with roasted red peppers, sliced into strips.
5. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the baguette halves in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy and melted.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with these 20 delicious recipes that feature mozzarella balls as the star ingredient. From classic Caprese salad to innovative dishes like grilled vegetable skewers and stuffed portobello mushrooms, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find mouthwatering combinations like baked mozzarella balls with marinara sauce, creamy pasta salads, and savory wraps. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
