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 fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed; 100ml dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fusion Kitchen

I absolutely adore preparing Fondue with Mozzarella and Basil, as it brings a unique twist to the classic cheese fondue experience. The creamy mozzarella combined with the aromatic basil creates an indulgent dip that’s perfect for gatherings with friends or a cozy night in. The best part? It's surprisingly easy to whip up, making it an accessible treat for both novice and experienced cooks alike. I often serve it with a mix of fresh bread, vegetables, or even some delightful bites of seafood for an unforgettable taste journey.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:09:34.792Z

As I ventured into the world of fondue, I quickly realized that the secret to a great cheese mix lies in the quality of the cheese used. For this recipe, I chose fresh mozzarella, which melts beautifully, creating a creamy texture that glides effortlessly onto whatever you're dipping. Pairing it with basil not only enriches the flavor but also gives it a vibrant aroma that’s hard to resist.

Once I discovered that adding a touch of white wine helps to create a smooth consistency, my fondue nights transformed into culinary celebrations. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness, making each bite delightful. Don't forget to use a sturdy bread or vegetables for dipping - trust me, you’ll want every bit of this deliciousness!

        Reasons to Love This Fondue
        Creamy mozzarella melts and envelops every bite.
Fresh basil adds a fragrant twist and a burst of flavor.
Perfect for sharing, making it a great party dish.

      

The Art of Melting Mozzarella

When making fondue, the texture of the cheese is crucial. Fresh mozzarella is known for its creamy melt and slightly chewy texture, which beautifully complements the richness of the dish. To achieve the perfect melt, ensure your heat is set to low; this prevents the cheese from becoming stringy or clumpy. Stir the mixture continuously until the mozzarella has fully melted into a glossy, smooth consistency, which typically takes about 5–7 minutes.

Remember, the quality of the mozzarella makes all the difference. Opt for high-moisture, fresh mozzarella rather than pre-shredded varieties, as they often contain stabilizers that can impact texture and flavor. I find that using a good-quality mozzarella elevates each dip, enveloping your chosen dippers in a luxuriously creamy layer.

Choosing Accompaniments

The choice of dippers can enhance your fondue experience significantly. Fresh, crusty bread is a classic, but consider serving alongside colorful, crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or blanched broccoli. These not only add visual appeal but also provide a refreshing balance to the rich cheese. For a gourmet twist, try pairing with lightly seared shrimp or scallops, which complements the melted cheese with their delicate flavor.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, swap out bread for crispy vegetable chips or slices of roasted sweet potato. Just ensure that whatever you choose is sturdy enough to hold up to the gooey mozzarella without falling apart. Each bite should be a delightful dance of textures and flavors, making your fondue gathering an event to remember.

Ingredients

Fondue Ingredients

300g fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
100ml dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Serve with a selection of bread, vegetables, or seafood.

Instructions

Prepare the Fondue

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the white wine and minced garlic. Gradually add the mozzarella cubes while stirring continuously to ensure a smooth melt.

Thicken the Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the melted cheese while stirring. Continue stirring until it thickens.

Add the Basil

Once thickened, fold in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately in a fondue pot or a warm serving bowl.

Enjoy this delightful fondue with your favorite dippers!

Pro Tips

For a flavor twist, try adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat or experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftover fondue, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it regains its silky consistency. If it appears too thick after refrigeration, you can add a splash of white wine or a splash of water to help restore its creamy texture.

To make meal prep easier, you can prepare the components of this fondue ahead of time. The mozzarella can be cubed and stored in the refrigerator, and the fresh basil can be chopped and kept in a separate container. When you're ready to serve, simply follow the melting and combining steps for a quick assembly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your fondue isn't melting smoothly, one common issue might be the heat level. If the heat is too high, the cheese can become grainy instead of creamy. If this happens, remove the pan from heat immediately and continue to stir until it begins to cool slightly. Then return to low heat and gently continue melting.

Additionally, if the fondue seems too thick after adding the cornstarch slurry, you can remedy this by whisking in a bit more white wine until reaching your desired consistency. Remember, a perfectly made fondue should be luscious and dip-able, so don't hesitate to make adjustments to get it just right.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this fondue in advance?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.

→ What can I dip in this fondue?

Fresh bread, blanched vegetables, cooked seafood, or even fruit like apple slices can be fantastic dippers.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is delightful, feel free to mix in Gruyère or Fontina for a different flavor profile.

→ What type of wine should I use?

A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works best as it complements the cheese flavor.