Fondue with Mozzarella and Basil

Name: Fondue with Mozzarella and Basil
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g mozzarella cheese, grated; 150ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 clove garlic, halved; Fresh basil leaves, to taste; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely love making fondue, especially this delightful variation with mozzarella and fresh basil. The creamy texture and rich flavor of the melted cheese paired with aromatic basil create a unique experience that instantly takes me back to lovely dinners with friends. It's perfect for gatherings, and I enjoy experimenting with different dippers, from crusty bread to vibrant veggies. The ease of preparation makes it a go-to dish, allowing more time for laughter and conversation around the table.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:13:35.244Z

When I first tried this fondue with mozzarella and basil, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors melded together. The mozzarella provides a creamy base, while the basil adds a fresh twist that brightens every bite. One key tip I learned is to keep the heat low once the cheese is melted to maintain that luscious, stringy texture!

In my experience, the choice of dippers can make all the difference. I love using artisan breads and fresh vegetables for a colorful, flavorful spread that enhances the overall enjoyment. Trust me, nothing compares to dipping a warm piece of bread into this cheesy delight!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy mozzarella that stretches beautifully with every dip
Fresh basil adds a delightful touch of flavor and aroma
Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a fun family meal experience

      

Getting the Right Cheese

The choice of mozzarella is crucial in this fondue. Fresh mozzarella provides a creamy texture that melts beautifully, giving you that signature stretch when dipping. Look for high-quality cheese from a local Italian deli, as it typically has a higher moisture content. For a stronger flavor, consider using aged mozzarella or adding a touch of provolone to the mix, but be cautious as it may alter the melting consistency slightly.

If you're in a pinch, low-moisture mozzarella works as well, but you may lose some of the creaminess and stretch. Remember that pre-shredded mozzarella often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the fondue’s smooth texture, so grating fresh mozzarella just before use is the best route for this recipe.

The Perfect Wine Pairing

Using dry white wine adds acidity that balances the richness of mozzarella. A Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio works wonderfully, providing a crisp backdrop that enhances flavor without overpowering the dish. Avoid sweet wines, as they can make the fondue overly rich and cloying.

If you prefer to avoid wine due to dietary restrictions, low-sodium vegetable broth can serve as an excellent substitute. However, this will alter the flavor profile slightly, so consider adding a splash of lemon juice for that touch of acidity. Ensure the broth is heated well before adding the cheese for best results.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful fondue experience:

Fondue Ingredients

300g mozzarella cheese, grated
150ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 clove garlic, halved
Fresh basil leaves, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

These simple ingredients will lead to a delightful fondue dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a smooth and tasty fondue:

Prepare the Pot

Rub the inside of a fondue pot with the halved garlic clove to impart flavor. Discard the garlic clove after rubbing.

Combine Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix the grated mozzarella with cornstarch until well coated. This helps to keep the cheese from clumping together during melting.

Heat the Wine

Pour the white wine into the fondue pot and heat it over low heat until it's just simmering.

Melt the Cheese

Gradually add the mozzarella mixture to the simmering wine, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

Stir in salt, pepper, and fresh basil leaves. Remove from heat and serve immediately with your choice of dippers.

Enjoy your delicious fondue with friends or family!

Pro Tips

Use high-quality mozzarella for the best flavor and texture. Keep the fondue pot on low heat to prevent the cheese from burning.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to dippers, creativity is key! Traditional choices like crusty bread or baguette slices are always a hit, but I love including an array of colorful vegetables like blanched asparagus, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh twist. Fruits like apple or pear slices can also add a surprising sweetness that's delightful against the savory cheese.

To enhance the experience, consider preparing a simple platter with your dippers arranged artfully around a small bowl of pesto or marinara sauce. These can provide an exciting contrast to the melted mozzarella, making the fondue experience even more engaging for guests.

Make-Ahead Tips

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance. Grate the cheese and mix it with cornstarch the night before, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also makes sure your cheese stays dry, helping it melt more smoothly when the time comes.

Keep the garlic-infused pot ready, too. Just make sure to clean it thoroughly after rubbing in the garlic, as any leftover bits can impart undesirable flavors. If you find yourself with leftover fondue, it can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of wine or broth to loosen the texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for added flavor.

→ What can I use as dippers?

Crusty bread, fresh vegetables, and even fruits like apples or pears work wonderfully.

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and melt cheese just before serving.

→ What wine is best for fondue?

A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, is ideal as it complements the cheese without overpowering it.