Delicious Prosciutto Wrapped Mozzarella Bites
Are you yearning for a snack that’s the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and utterly satisfying? Look no further than prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bites! These little nuggets of joy are fantastic for gatherings, parties, or simply for treating yourself during a cozy night in. Inspired by Italian cuisine, this recipe captures the essence of creamy mozzarella embraced by the rich, salty flavor of prosciutto. It’s a delightful appetizer that’s easy to prepare and always leaves everyone wanting more!
Why you’ll love this dish
You’ll adore prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bites for so many reasons! First and foremost, they’re quick to whip up – perfect for when guests drop by unannounced or when you need a last-minute party snack. Plus, they cater to a variety of taste buds, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings or game day festivities. They’re savory, crispy, and creamy — a trio of textures that creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
"These prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bites were a total hit at our party! Everyone was raving about them, and I loved how simple they were to make." — A happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Making prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bites is a straightforward endeavor that anyone can tackle, regardless of cooking skill. Here’s a brief overview of how the magic happens:
- Preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheet.
- Gently wrap each mozzarella ball in prosciutto slices.
- Brush with a delicious olive oil and seasoning mixture.
- Bake until crispy and golden.
With the roasting in the oven adding a delightful crunch, this recipe is a breeze that results in a gourmet-like experience!
What you’ll need
To gather everything you need for these tasty bites, you’ll require:
- 1 package prosciutto
- 1 package mozzarella balls (around 12 oz)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (optional)
If you’re looking to customize, you can easily switch out the mozzarella with burrata for an extra creamy delight, or even try different herbs based on your preference!
Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s dive into the simple steps to create these delights!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Open the package of prosciutto and gently separate the slices, laying them flat on a clean surface.
- Remove the mozzarella balls from their packaging and drain any excess liquid. If the mozzarella balls are large, consider cutting them in half for easier wrapping.
- Place one mozzarella ball in the center of each prosciutto slice.
- Carefully wrap the prosciutto around the mozzarella ball, ensuring it is fully enclosed. Repeat for all mozzarella balls.
- In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper once hot. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until fragrant and then remove from heat.
- Brush the seasoned olive oil mixture over each prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bite.
- Arrange your wrapped bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately, or prepare to be bombarded with requests for more!
Best ways to enjoy it
These mozzarella bites are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm as a delectable appetizer, or pair them with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping. They also shine alongside a crisp salad to balance out the richness, or as part of a charcuterie board featuring assorted cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bites fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For a crisp reheating, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the prosciutto to regain its crunchy texture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your mozzarella balls are well-drained to avoid excess moisture that could affect the crisping process of the prosciutto.
- For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the olive oil mixture.
- Use a silicone baking mat instead of parchment paper for an extra non-stick surface if you have one on hand.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few variations to elevate your bites:
- Swap out the prosciutto for thin slices of salami for a spicy kick.
- Infuse the olive oil with red pepper flakes for a slight heat.
- Experiment with flavored mozzarella, such as basil or herb-infused varieties.
Common questions
1. How long does it take to prepare these bites?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and baking takes another 10-12 minutes!
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just pop them in the oven when your guests arrive!
3. Are there any substitutions I can make?
Absolutely! If you can’t find prosciutto, try bacon or turkey bacon for a similar taste with a different twist.
4. Can these be served cold?
While best served warm, they can be enjoyed at room temperature, but the texture will be different.
These prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bites are bound to be a hit, whether it’s a casual gathering or a special occasion. Dive in and enjoy sharing this flavorful treat with your loved ones!
Prosciutto-Wrapped Mozzarella Bites
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package prosciutto
- 12 oz mozzarella balls About one package
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil Optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Open the package of prosciutto and gently separate the slices, laying them flat on a clean surface.
- Remove the mozzarella balls from their packaging and drain any excess liquid. If the mozzarella balls are large, consider cutting them in half for easier wrapping.
- Place one mozzarella ball in the center of each prosciutto slice.
- Carefully wrap the prosciutto around the mozzarella ball, ensuring it is fully enclosed. Repeat for all mozzarella balls.
Cooking
- In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper once hot. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds until fragrant and then remove from heat.
- Brush the seasoned olive oil mixture over each prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella bite.
- Arrange your wrapped bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately, or prepare to be bombarded with requests for more!
