Fresh mozzarella is a versatile cheese that can add creamy texture and mild flavor to many dishes. Its soft, pillowy texture and delicate taste make it perfect for both cold and hot recipes.

From classic Italian favorites to creative new twists, fresh mozzarella can elevate your meals.

You’ll find plenty of ways to use fresh mozzarella in appetizers, main courses, and even some desserts. Try it in salads, on pizzas, in pasta dishes, or simply eaten on its own with a drizzle of olive oil.

The cheese’s ability to melt smoothly also makes it great for baked dishes. With so many options, you’re sure to discover new favorite recipes featuring this beloved cheese.

1. Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction

Caprese salad is a simple yet delicious dish that you can easily make at home. Start by arranging slices of fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes on a platter.

Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the top. Add fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.

To make the balsamic reduction, simmer balsamic vinegar in a small pan until it thickens. Let it cool before drizzling over your salad.

This reduction adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes. Serve your Caprese salad as a light lunch or appetizer.

2. Grilled Peach and Mozzarella Salad

This tasty summer salad combines sweet grilled peaches with creamy mozzarella. To make it, cut peaches in half and brush them with olive oil.

Grill the peaches for 2-3 minutes per side until they have nice char marks. Arrange lettuce on a platter and top with the grilled peaches, fresh mozzarella, and blueberries.

Add some thinly sliced red onion and pine nuts for crunch. Drizzle the salad with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mix of warm peaches, cool cheese, and tangy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors.

3. Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs

Mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are a tasty twist on classic Italian cuisine. You can make them with ground beef or turkey for a lighter option.

Mix your chosen meat with breadcrumbs, eggs, herbs, and spices. Form small balls and press a cube of mozzarella into the center of each one.

Bake the meatballs in a 375°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. They’re done when browned on the outside and no longer pink in the middle.

Serve these gooey, cheesy meatballs with pasta and tomato sauce for a satisfying meal. They’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

4. Tomato and Mozzarella Tart

Tomato and mozzarella tart is a tasty dish that combines fresh ingredients with a flaky crust. You can make this tart using puff pastry or homemade dough.

To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread a layer of ricotta cheese on the pastry base. Then, arrange sliced tomatoes on top.

Sprinkle fresh mozzarella over the tomatoes. Add some caramelized onions for extra flavor.

Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

For a finishing touch, add fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. This tart is perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer.

5. Eggplant Rollatini with Fresh Mozzarella

Eggplant rollatini is a tasty dish that uses fresh mozzarella. To make it, you’ll slice eggplant thinly and salt it to remove excess moisture.

After patting the eggplant dry, you’ll fill each slice with a cheese mixture. This usually includes ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh mozzarella.

Add some herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor. Roll up the filled eggplant slices and place them in a baking dish.

Top with tomato sauce and more fresh mozzarella. Bake until the cheese melts and the eggplant is tender.

This dish is great for dinner parties or family meals. It’s a nice twist on classic eggplant Parmesan.

6. Classic Margherita Pizza

You can’t go wrong with a classic Margherita pizza. Start by preheating your oven to 450°F.

Make a simple sauce by mixing crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, salt, and a pinch of sugar. Roll out your pizza dough and spread the sauce evenly.

Top with slices of fresh mozzarella and a few torn basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil before baking.

Place the pizza on a stone or baking sheet in the lower third of the oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Let it cool slightly before slicing. The combination of crispy crust, tangy sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil is hard to beat.

7. Mozzarella and Prosciutto Panini

A mozzarella and prosciutto panini is a tasty Italian-inspired sandwich. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.

Start with a ciabatta roll or focaccia bread. Layer on thin slices of prosciutto and fresh mozzarella.

Add some arugula for a peppery bite. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze for extra flavor.

Press the sandwich in a panini maker or grill pan until the cheese melts.

The result is a warm sandwich with gooey cheese and salty prosciutto. It’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

8. Creamy Mozzarella Risotto

Creamy mozzarella risotto is a comforting dish that combines the classic Italian rice with melty cheese. You’ll need arborio rice, broth, onions, garlic, and fresh mozzarella.

Start by sautéing diced onions in olive oil until soft. Add the rice and toast it for a few minutes.

Gradually add warm broth, stirring often, until the rice is cooked and creamy. For extra flavor, mix in some roasted cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.

Finish by stirring in cubes of mozzarella until they melt slightly.

Serve your creamy mozzarella risotto hot, garnished with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. It makes a satisfying main dish or a tasty side for grilled meats or fish.

9. Pesto Mozzarella Pull-Apart Bread

This tasty bread combines fresh mozzarella with zesty pesto for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. You’ll need a loaf of bread, pesto sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cut diagonal slices into the bread, creating a crosshatch pattern. Be careful not to cut through the bottom crust.

Spread pesto sauce between the cuts, then stuff shredded mozzarella into the cracks. Wrap the loaf in foil and bake for about 20 minutes.

The result is a warm, gooey, cheesy bread that pulls apart easily. Serve it as a party snack or alongside your favorite Italian dishes.

10. Mozzarella-Stuffed Chicken Breast

You can make a delicious dinner with mozzarella-stuffed chicken breast. Start by cutting a pocket in boneless chicken breasts.

Fill each pocket with fresh mozzarella cheese. You can add other ingredients like spinach or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.

Coat the stuffed chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. This creates a crispy exterior.

Cook the chicken in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown on both sides. It usually takes 3-4 minutes per side.

Serve your mozzarella-stuffed chicken with tomato sauce or on its own. It’s a tasty meal that looks impressive but is simple to make.

11. Roasted Vegetable and Mozzarella Quinoa

This dish combines healthy quinoa with tasty roasted veggies and creamy mozzarella. Start by cooking quinoa in water or chicken stock for about 15-20 minutes until soft.

While the quinoa cooks, roast your favorite vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Toss them with olive oil and spices before baking.

Mix the cooked quinoa with the roasted vegetables in a large bowl. Add cubed fresh mozzarella and gently stir to combine.

You can serve this dish warm or cold. It makes a great main course or side dish. For extra flavor, drizzle with a simple balsamic dressing before eating.

12. Mozzarella Basil Pesto Pasta

Mozzarella basil pesto pasta is a quick and tasty meal you can whip up in no time. Start by cooking your favorite pasta according to package instructions.

While the pasta cooks, blend fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese to make a homemade pesto sauce. You can also use store-bought pesto to save time.

Drain the pasta and toss it with the pesto sauce. Add chunks of fresh mozzarella and halved cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

Garnish with some extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

This dish works great hot or at room temperature, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

13. Zucchini and Mozzarella Fritters

Zucchini and mozzarella fritters are a tasty way to use up extra zucchini. You’ll love these crispy, cheesy bites as a side dish or snack.

To make them, grate zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture. Mix with eggs, flour, shredded mozzarella, and seasonings like Italian herbs.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Flatten slightly and cook until golden brown on both sides.

These fritters are best served warm. Try them with a dollop of sour cream or marinara sauce for dipping.

14. Heirloom Tomato and Mozzarella Bruschetta

This classic Italian appetizer combines fresh heirloom tomatoes and creamy mozzarella. To make it, start by toasting slices of baguette until golden brown.

Rub each slice with a clove of garlic for extra flavor. Chop ripe heirloom tomatoes and mix them with torn basil leaves, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.

Top each bread slice with the tomato mixture and add slices of fresh mozzarella. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a tangy finish.

This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal. The bright colors and fresh flavors will impress your guests.

15. Fresh Mozzarella and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

These stuffed mushrooms are a tasty appetizer or side dish. You’ll need small cremini or white mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, and spinach.

Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Chop some fresh spinach and mix it with shredded mozzarella cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor.

Spoon the spinach and cheese mixture into each mushroom cap. Place them on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake the stuffed mushrooms in a preheated oven until the cheese melts and the mushrooms are tender. Serve them warm as a delicious vegetarian snack or party food.

16. Mozzarella Arancini

Mozzarella arancini are delicious Italian rice balls with a gooey cheese center. You can make these tasty treats at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start by cooking risotto and letting it cool. Form the rice into balls, placing a cube of fresh mozzarella in the center. Roll the balls in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.

Deep fry the arancini until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. The outside will be crispy while the inside stays soft and cheesy.

Serve your homemade mozzarella arancini hot as an appetizer or snack. They’re perfect for parties or a fun weekend cooking project.

17. Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls

You’ll love these tasty chicken rolls stuffed with gooey mozzarella. Start by pounding chicken breasts thin.

Spread each with marinara sauce and top with mozzarella. Roll up the chicken and secure with toothpicks. Dip in egg whites, then coat in seasoned breadcrumbs.

Place seam-side down in a baking dish. Bake the rolls at 450°F for about 25 minutes until cooked through.

Top with extra marinara and mozzarella slices. Return to the oven briefly to melt the cheese.

Serve your baked mozzarella chicken rolls hot, sliced to show off the cheesy center. They’re perfect with a side salad or pasta.

18. Asparagus and Mozzarella Tart

This springtime tart combines crisp asparagus with creamy mozzarella. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.

Roll out puff pastry and score the edges to create a border. Spread a layer of cheese mixture on the pastry.

Arrange blanched asparagus spears on top. Bake until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted.

For extra flavor, add some prosciutto after baking. This tart makes a great appetizer or light meal.

You can customize it with other spring vegetables or herbs to suit your taste.

19. Mozzarella and Herb Stuffed Pork Tenderloin

Elevate your pork tenderloin with a savory mozzarella and herb stuffing. Start by butterflying the tenderloin, opening it up like a book.

Pound it to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Mix fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil with sliced mozzarella.

Spread this mixture over the flattened pork. Roll the tenderloin tightly, securing it with kitchen twine.

Season the outside with salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil. Roast in a preheated 375°F oven for about 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Let it rest before slicing to keep the juices in.

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a light salad. You’ll love the melty cheese and aromatic herbs in every bite.

20. Peach and Mozzarella Crostini

Peach and Mozzarella Crostini is a tasty summer appetizer. You’ll love the mix of sweet peaches and creamy mozzarella on crispy bread.

Start by toasting baguette slices until golden.

Top each slice with thin peach and fresh mozzarella pieces.

Add a slice of ripe tomato for extra flavor. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thinly sliced basil.

Drizzle a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top. This adds a nice tangy finish to the dish.

Serve these crostini at your next gathering. They’re perfect for warm weather parties or a light snack.

21. Fig and Mozzarella Salad

This fresh salad combines sweet figs with creamy mozzarella for a delicious summer dish.

Start by cutting fresh figs into halves or quarters. Arrange them on a plate with torn pieces of mozzarella.

Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the figs and cheese. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess. Sprinkle sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.

Top the salad with torn basil leaves for a burst of flavor.

Let it marinate for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. This simple salad makes a great appetizer or light lunch on a warm day.

22. Mozzarella and Sun-Dried Tomato Pizza

This pizza combines the creamy richness of fresh mozzarella with the intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes.

Start with a simple pizza dough and spread it into a rectangular shape.

Top the dough with slices of fresh mozzarella and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Add some pine nuts for crunch and a few basil leaves for freshness.

Sprinkle a pinch of salt and drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the toppings.

Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For extra zing, try adding some lemon zest after baking. This pizza is ready in under 30 minutes and makes a tasty meal any time of day.

23. Mozzarella-Stuffed Italian Burgers

Surprise your taste buds with these mouthwatering mozzarella-stuffed Italian burgers. They combine juicy beef patties with gooey cheese centers for a truly indulgent meal.

To make them, mix ground beef with Italian seasonings, breadcrumbs, and an egg. Form the mixture into thin patties.

Place a thick slice of fresh mozzarella in the center of one patty and top it with another. Seal the edges well to keep the cheese inside.

Grill or pan-fry the burgers until cooked through.

The melted mozzarella will ooze out when you bite into them. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze for an Italian twist.

24. Classic Mozzarella Carrozza

Mozzarella Carrozza is a tasty Italian sandwich. You make it with bread, mozzarella, and a crispy coating.

Start by cutting the crust off white bread slices. Place mozzarella between two slices and press the edges to seal.

Dip the sandwich in flour, then beaten egg, and finally breadcrumbs.

Fry it in hot oil until golden brown on both sides.

For extra flavor, add ham or anchovy inside. Some recipes include Parma ham and basil for a twist.

Serve your Mozzarella Carrozza hot and crispy. It’s a perfect snack or appetizer that everyone will love.

25. Smoked Mozzarella and Mushroom Frittata

This tasty frittata combines smoky mozzarella with earthy mushrooms for a delicious breakfast or brunch dish. You’ll need eggs, smoked mozzarella, mushrooms, and some basic seasonings.

Start by sautéing sliced mushrooms in a skillet.

Beat the eggs with salt and pepper, then pour them over the mushrooms. Sprinkle chunks of smoked mozzarella on top.

Cook the frittata on the stovetop until the edges set. Then transfer it to the oven to finish cooking.

The result is a fluffy egg dish with gooey cheese and tender mushrooms.

Serve your frittata hot, cut into wedges. It makes a filling meal on its own or pairs well with a side salad. You can also make it ahead and reheat individual slices for quick breakfasts.

26. Beet and Mozzarella Salad with Dill

This salad combines sweet roasted beets with creamy fresh mozzarella and fragrant dill. To make it, start by roasting beets in the oven until tender, about 40-50 minutes at 350°F.

Once cooled, peel and slice the beets. Arrange them on a plate with torn fresh mozzarella. Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the top.

Drizzle the salad with a simple dressing of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.

The earthy beets, mild cheese, and aromatic dill create a delicious blend of flavors and textures.

This colorful salad works great as a light lunch or side dish. You can prepare the beets ahead of time to make assembly quick and easy.

27. Eggplant and Mozzarella Moussaka

This twist on traditional moussaka adds fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess. You’ll layer roasted eggplant slices with a savory meat sauce and cheese.

Start by salting eggplant slices to remove excess moisture. Then roast them until tender.

Brown ground lamb or beef with onions and spices for the meat layer.

Layer the eggplant, meat sauce, and sliced fresh mozzarella in a baking dish. Top with a creamy béchamel sauce.

Bake until golden and bubbling.

Let the moussaka cool slightly before serving. The melted mozzarella adds a delicious stringy cheese pull to each bite.

28. Prosciutto and Mozzarella-Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers make a tasty appetizer or side dish. You’ll need cherry peppers, fresh mozzarella, and prosciutto.

Cut small cubes of mozzarella and wrap them in thin slices of prosciutto. Stuff this mixture into the cored cherry peppers.

Place the stuffed peppers in a jar with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Let them marinate for a few hours before serving.

The salty prosciutto pairs well with the creamy mozzarella and tangy peppers. These are perfect for parties or as a quick snack.

29. Mozzarella Bacon Wrapped Dates

Mozzarella bacon wrapped dates are a tasty appetizer that combines sweet, salty, and creamy flavors. You’ll need fresh mozzarella, bacon, and pitted dates.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cut the mozzarella into small strips that will fit inside the dates. Stuff each date with a piece of mozzarella.

Wrap a strip of bacon around each stuffed date. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Place the wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These treats are perfect for parties or as a snack.

30. Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Omelet

You can make a tasty breakfast with fresh mozzarella and basil.

Whisk eggs with salt and pepper in a bowl. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.

Pour the eggs into the pan and let them set.

Add sliced fresh mozzarella and chopped basil to one half of the omelet. Fold the other half over the cheese and herbs.

Cook until the cheese melts and the eggs are done. Slide the omelet onto a plate and enjoy your simple but delicious meal.

Understanding Fresh Mozzarella

Fresh mozzarella is a soft, white cheese with a mild flavor and smooth texture. It’s made from cow’s or water buffalo milk using a special process.

The History of Mozzarella

Mozzarella cheese comes from Italy. It was first made in the Campania region around Naples. Farmers created it using milk from water buffaloes.

The name “mozzarella” comes from the Italian word “mozzare,” which means “to cut off.” This refers to how cheese makers cut the curds by hand.

In the past, mozzarella was only eaten fresh within a few hours. Now, thanks to better storage, you can enjoy it for longer.

Today, most mozzarella is made from cow’s milk. But some places still use traditional buffalo milk.

Nutritional Benefits

Fresh mozzarella is packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of protein, which helps build and repair your body’s tissues.

This cheese also gives you calcium for strong bones and teeth. It has vitamins A and B12, which support your immune system and nerve function.

Here’s a quick look at what you get in one ounce (28 grams) of fresh mozzarella:

• Calories: 70
• Protein: 5 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Calcium: 14% of daily value

Fresh mozzarella has less sodium than many other cheeses. This makes it a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake.

Cooking Techniques

Fresh mozzarella is versatile and can be used in many ways. The right techniques help bring out its best flavors and textures.

Slicing and Dicing for Salads

To slice fresh mozzarella for salads, use a sharp knife. Cut it into thin, even slices or small cubes.

For Caprese salad, slice the cheese into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Match the size of your tomato slices.

To dice mozzarella, first cut it into slices. Then cut those slices into strips, and finally into cubes.

For a rustic look, tear the mozzarella by hand. This works well in pasta salads or on top of pizzas.

Keep your mozzarella cold until you’re ready to slice it. This makes it easier to cut cleanly.

Melting Tips for Best Results

Fresh mozzarella melts differently than low-moisture types. It releases more water as it heats up.

For pizzas, slice the cheese thinly and pat it dry with paper towels before using. This reduces excess moisture.

When melting mozzarella in dishes like lasagna, use it sparingly. Too much can make your dish watery.

For the best melt, bring fresh mozzarella to room temperature before cooking. This helps it melt more evenly.

In baked dishes, add fresh mozzarella near the end of cooking time. This prevents it from releasing too much water.

For a golden top on casseroles, use the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. Watch closely to avoid burning.