Fondue with Mozzarella and Basil

Name: Fondue with Mozzarella and Basil
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g fresh mozzarella cheese, diced; 100g grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Bread cubes, veggies, or fruits for dipping

Highlighted under: Cultural World Food Favorites

I always find fondue evenings to be a delightful experience, especially when it’s made with mozzarella and fresh basil. The combination creates a creamy and aromatic dip that everyone loves. This recipe is straightforward yet packed with flavor, making it a favorite for gatherings. It invites creativity, allowing everyone to dip their choice of bread, veggies, or even fruits. Join me as I share my cherished recipe that has become a staple in my home for celebrations and cozy nights alike!

Created by

Esme Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:17:34.918Z

When I first tried a mozzarella and basil fondue, I was amazed by how the two ingredients complemented each other. The smoothness of mozzarella pairs so well with the aromatic notes of fresh basil, making it a perfect dip for any occasion. I remember serving it at a get-together, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it!

What I learned is that the key to a perfect fondue is maintaining the right temperature. Melt the cheese gradually over low heat and stir frequently to achieve that silky texture we all crave. I also love to add a splash of white wine to enhance the flavors; it turns this dish into a gourmet experience!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy mozzarella that stretches just right on every dip
Fresh basil adds a lovely aromatic dimension
Quick and easy to prepare for gatherings or a cozy night in

      

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

The quality of ingredients in this fondue recipe greatly impacts the flavor and texture of the final dip. Fresh mozzarella provides that desired stretch and creaminess, while grated parmesan contributes a sharper, nutty flavor that balances the dish beautifully. When selecting your mozzarella, go for a high-quality, fresh variety rather than pre-shredded versions, which often contain starches that inhibit melting.

Using fresh basil not only enhances the aroma but also infuses the fondue with a vibrant, herbaceous note. Basil's oils are released during the cooking process, enriching the cheese mixture. For the best flavor, make sure to chop the basil just before adding it to the mix—this way, you capture its essential oils at their peak freshness.

Perfecting the Fondue Technique

When combining the cheese with the wine, pay close attention to the temperature. Too high heat can cause the cheese to become grainy instead of silky. Aim for medium heat and stir continuously as you incorporate the cheese. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns glossy and flows smoothly; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes of gentle stirring.

If you find your fondue is too thick, you can adjust the texture by adding more wine, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, a bit more cornstarch dissolved in wine can help thicken it up. Just remember to adjust the seasonings accordingly!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious fondue!

Fondue Ingredients

200g fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
100g grated parmesan cheese
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Bread cubes, veggies, or fruits for dipping

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful fondue experience.

Prepare the Ingredients

In a bowl, toss the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses with the cornstarch. This will help the cheese melt smoothly without clumping.

Heat the Ingredients

In a saucepan, combine the white wine and minced garlic. Heat over medium heat until hot, but not boiling.

Add the Cheese

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the hot wine, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Season the Fondue

Stir in the chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the fondue warm over low heat.

Serve

Transfer the melted fondue into a serving pot and serve immediately with your choice of dippers.

Enjoy your delicious fondue with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a more complex flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a touch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture. It's a game-changer!

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive dining experience, present an assortment of dippers. Classic choices include crusty bread cubes, crisp vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli, and even fruits like apple slices or grapes. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as a sourdough or a baguette, to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Consider arranging your dippers on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. You could also include small bowls of seasonings, like crushed red pepper flakes or additional chopped herbs, that guests can sprinkle on their dippers to customize their experience. This adds an extra layer of fun and creativity to your fondue night!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to prep ahead of time, you can prepare the cheese mixture and toss it with cornstarch a few hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to start. Just remember to take it out about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which helps it melt evenly.

While fondue is best enjoyed fresh, if you find yourself with leftovers, store any uneaten fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm it over low heat while stirring—adding a splash of wine can help restore its creamy consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can experiment with cheese such as Gruyère or Emmental for different flavors.

→ What can I dip into the fondue?

I love using bread cubes, but you can also dip veggies like bell peppers, carrot sticks, or even fruits like apples or pears.

→ Can I make this fondue ahead of time?

It's best to serve fondue fresh, but you can prepare the cheese mixture in advance and heat it gently before serving.

→ What type of wine works best for fondue?

A dry white wine works best, as it balances the richness of the cheese. Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are great choices.