Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, melty goodness with these 20 delicious recipes that feature shredded mozzarella cheese as the star of the show. From classic Italian dishes like pizza and lasagna to creative twists on comfort food favorites, we’ve got you covered with a variety of easy-to-make recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of shredded mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or a show-stopping appetizer or main course, we’ve got a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and let the melted magic begin!
Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil
Classic Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil Recipe
A quintessential Italian classic, this simple yet flavorful pizza is a must-try for any pizza enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb high-protein flour (00 or all-purpose)
– 0.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups lukewarm water
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 20-30 leaves)
– San Marzano tomato sauce (or other similar variety)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water while kneading the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Form into a ball, place on a floured surface, cover with plastic wrap, and let rest for 1 hour.
5. Roll out dough to 12-inch (30 cm) diameter circle.
6. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 0.5 inch border around edges.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
8. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious homemade Margherita pizza!
Homemade Mozzarella Sticks with Marinara Sauce
Transform your snack time with this easy-to-make recipe that combines crispy mozzarella sticks with a tangy and rich marinara sauce. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip mozzarella cheese into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Fry mozzarella sticks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Bread with Herbs
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make cheesy garlic bread infused with fresh herbs. Perfect as a quick appetizer or side dish, it’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French baguette (about 12 inches long)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each half of the baguette.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the garlic butter.
6. Top with chopped parsley and thyme.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast
Spinach and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this deliciously easy-to-make chicken breast stuffed with fresh spinach and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded 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, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay each chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision in the center of each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Place the stuffed breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Caprese Salad
Baked Mozzarella Caprese Salad: Elevate the classic Italian salad by baking mozzarella cheese to a golden brown perfection and pairing it with fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy burrata.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 ball of burrata cheese (about 6 oz)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the mozzarella slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mozzarella and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and slightly puffed.
5. Arrange the tomato slices on a serving plate.
6. Top with the baked mozzarella, burrata cheese, and chopped basil (if using).
7. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Three-Cheese Lasagna with Ground Beef
A hearty and satisfying twist on the classic lasagna, this recipe combines ground beef, three types of cheese, and layers of pasta for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, cheese mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mozzarella and Tomato Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the perfect combination of melted mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 large tomato slices
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a tomato slice, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and another bread slice (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
7. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
This recipe combines the flavors of tender Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and creamy melted mozzarella cheese to create a satisfying and comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-14 ziti pasta
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture and cooked ziti pasta. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms with Mozzarella
A savory and satisfying vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. These stuffed mushrooms are packed with flavor from the earthy portobellos, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 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 bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, garlic, and mozzarella.
3. Brush mushroom caps with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Mozzarella and Pesto Flatbread
This recipe brings together the creamy richness of mozzarella cheese and the savory flavor of pesto on a crispy flatbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package flatbread (or pita bread)
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 6 slices fresh mozzarella cheese, torn into small pieces
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Top with torn mozzarella cheese pieces.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Parmesan with Melted Mozzarella
Elevate your comfort food game with this straightforward recipe for crispy chicken topped with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle marinara sauce over chicken breasts and top with mozzarella slices.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
A buttery, cheesy, garlicky delight that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup warm water (about 105°F to 115°F)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down dough, then roll out into a 12×15-inch rectangle.
7. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and minced garlic over the butter.
9. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one of the long sides.
10. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
11. Brush with egg wash and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mozzarella-Stuffed Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with these creamy, cheesy meatballs smothered in rich tomato sauce. A perfect comfort food for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Olive oil, for cooking
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 well.
3. Divide the mixture into 12-15 portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly, then place a mozzarella cheese cube in the center. Fold the meat over the cheese to form a ball shape.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the meatballs are baking, heat crushed tomatoes with chopped onion and garlic in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
8. Remove the meatballs from the oven and add them to the tomato sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable and Mozzarella Quiche
A delicious and versatile brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion. This quiche is packed with sautéed vegetables, melted mozzarella cheese, and a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, onions)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. Sauté the mixed vegetables until tender, then set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the sautéed vegetables in the pie crust, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling, making sure to cover it evenly.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Mozzarella Dip with Garlic and Herbs
Baked Mozzarella Dip with Garlic and Herbs: A rich and creamy dip that’s perfect for snacking or entertaining.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and grated mozzarella cheese.
3. Add the chopped parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture; mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish or ramekin.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the dip.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Mozzarella Casserole
A delicious and comforting casserole that combines the goodness of broccoli, mozzarella cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked broccoli in an even layer. Top with cheese mixture, followed by breadcrumbs.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Layered Mozzarella
This iconic dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring tender eggplant slices coated in a crispy breading and layered with creamy mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy-to-make, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Arrange fried eggplant slices in a baking dish, overlapping slightly.
6. Spread tomato sauce over the eggplant, followed by mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Homemade Calzone with Ricotta and Mozzarella
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic homemade calzone recipe, filled to the brim with creamy ricotta cheese and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 8 ounces ricotta cheese
+ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
+ 1 egg, beaten
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil.
3. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
4. Roll out the dough into a thin sheet.
5. Spread ricotta mixture over half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of ricotta mixture.
7. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
8. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with optional toppings.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Mozzarella and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Treat your taste buds to a creamy, cheesy delight with these stuffed shells packed with mozzarella, spinach, and a hint of Italian flavor.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Mozzarella and Veggie Skewers
Get ready for a flavorful and healthy snack! This recipe combines creamy mozzarella cheese with colorful vegetables, all wrapped up in a easy-to-make skewer.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Assorted colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, green), cut into 1-inch pieces
– Cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate mozzarella slices with bell pepper pieces and cherry tomatoes on skewers.
3. Brush skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cheese is melted and vegetables are tender.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Mozzarella lovers rejoice! This article brings together 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the star of the show – shredded mozzarella cheese. From classic Margherita pizza to cheesy garlic bread, and from stuffed chicken breast to baked ziti with Italian sausage, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or a pasta lover, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious recipes featuring the creamy, melty goodness of mozzarella cheese.
