Fondue with Mozzarella and Basil

Name: Fondue with Mozzarella and Basil
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g fresh mozzarella, shredded; 100g grated Parmesan cheese; 250ml dry white wine; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; Freshly ground black pepper to taste; Crusty bread, for dipping; Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, broccoli) for dippables

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely love making fondue with mozzarella and basil! It’s my go-to recipe when I want to indulge in a comforting yet sophisticated dish. The creamy, melted cheese combined with the fresh aroma of basil creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. I enjoy serving it with an array of dippables like crusty bread and seasonal vegetables, making it perfect for gatherings. Trust me, once you try this rich and flavorful fondue, it will become a favorite in your home too!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:25:34.830Z

When I first tried making fondue, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was, yet how gourmet it felt. I experimented by adding fresh basil to the melted mozzarella, and the result was nothing short of magical. The earthy notes of basil cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a balanced flavor profile that made my taste buds sing with joy.

One key detail I learned is the importance of slowly melting the cheese over low heat while stirring continuously. This ensures a silky smooth consistency without any clumping. Don’t forget to pair it with a crisp white wine to enhance the flavors!

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Rich mozzarella flavor enhanced by aromatic basil
Creamy texture that flows perfectly for dipping
Ideal for sharing at parties or cozy nights in

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key ingredient in this fondue, fresh mozzarella, offers a delightful creaminess that is essential for achieving the desired velvety texture. When selecting mozzarella, opt for high-quality, fresh cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, as fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, imparting a rich flavor. The addition of Parmesan brings a nutty depth and enhances the salinity, balancing out the richness of the mozzarella and contributing to a more complex taste profile.

Basil plays a crucial role in elevating the flavor of this fondue. Using fresh basil makes a significant difference; its vibrant aroma and mild peppery notes cut through the creaminess, adding brightness to each bite. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist, but keep in mind that basil's distinctive flavor is what makes this recipe special.

Techniques for Perfect Melting

To achieve that beautifully smooth consistency, be sure to combine the cheeses with cornstarch before melting. This step not only helps prevent the cheeses from clumping but also stabilizes the fondue, keeping it creamy and cohesive. Avoid using too much cornstarch; one tablespoon is typically sufficient for the cheese volumes in this recipe. If you find your fondue is too thick once melted, a splash of wine can help loosen it up.

When melting cheese, it's essential to maintain a low to medium heat. High temperatures can cause the proteins in the cheese to separate, leading to a gritty texture. You want to create a gentle simmer, which helps the cheese melt gradually without burning. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to promote even melting and to incorporate the flavors well.

Serving and Enjoying

Presentation matters! Pour the finished fondue into a preheated ceramic or fondue pot to keep it warm and inviting. You can also consider using a candle heating unit underneath if you want to keep it warmer for longer without risking overheat on the stovetop. Prepare a colorful platter of dippables such as crusty bread, bell pepper slices, and cherry tomatoes to create an enticing display that encourages mingling and sharing.

Fondue is a flexible dish, making it easy to adapt to different tastes and seasons. You can add roasted garlic or caramelized onions for added depth, or even incorporate a splash of lemon juice for acidity. If you have leftovers, refrigerate them and reheat gently in a pot; just be sure to add a bit more wine to restore creaminess. Leftovers make a fantastic filling for pastas or sandwiches, turning a delightful appetizer into a meal.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Fondue

Fondue Ingredients

200g fresh mozzarella, shredded
100g grated Parmesan cheese
250ml dry white wine
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Crusty bread, for dipping
Vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, broccoli) for dippables

Mix the cheeses and cornstarch in a bowl before adding to the pot for better consistency.

Instructions

How to Make Fondue

Prepare the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan with the cornstarch. This helps to create a smooth consistency.

Start Melting

In a fondue pot, heat the white wine and minced garlic over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer.

Add Cheese Mixture

Gradually add the cheese mixture to the wine, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth.

Add Basil and Season

Stir in the chopped basil and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep the fondue warm and serve immediately.

Enjoy with an assortment of crusty bread and lightly steamed vegetables.

Pro Tips

For the best results, use fresh mozzarella instead of processed varieties for a more authentic flavor and texture. Also, make sure to keep the heat low to avoid burning the cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute part of the mozzarella with a reduced-fat version; however, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor. For a more robust flavor profile, consider incorporating Gruyère or Fontina cheese along with the mozzarella, as they melt superbly and add unique taste dimensions.

For those who are lactose intolerant or seeking dairy-free options, there are various nut-based cheeses available that can mimic the meltability of mozzarella, particularly when combined with a non-dairy milk like oat or almond milk. Just ensure that the cheese you choose is suitable for melting, as not all dairy-free cheeses perform the same under heat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have any fondue left over, make sure to store it in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so on a low heat, slowly introducing a bit of additional wine to regain that luscious, smooth consistency. Stir constantly to prevent any burning and to ensure an even re-melt.

If you wish to prepare this fondue in advance for special occasions, you can assemble the cheese mixture and store it separately from the wine and garlic. Just remember to combine everything just before serving, as the garlic and wine mixture should be freshly prepared to maintain its flavors and aromas when melting the cheese.

Pairing Suggestions

When enjoying your fondue, consider pairing it with a crisp dry white wine, which not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also complements the richness of the cheese. A Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio works beautifully, activating the herbaceous notes in the basil and crisping up the overall palate.

For those wanting to elevate the experience further, consider serving a selection of pickles and marinated vegetables alongside the fondue. The acidity and tanginess of these accompaniments can provide a fantastic contrast to the rich, creamy cheese, making each dip even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! You can mix in other melting cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for more depth of flavor.

→ What can I dip besides bread and vegetables?

Fruits like apple slices or even cooked meats like chicken or sausage work beautifully.

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply reheat gently on the stove to serve again.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

You can substitute the cheese with a vegan cheese blend and replace the wine with vegetable broth, though the flavor will differ.