Baked Mozzarella with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Basil Recipe
A simple and delicious baked mozzarella dish featuring fresh mozzarella slices and cherry tomatoes broiled to perfection with garlic and olive oil, garnished with fresh basil and served with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Extra virgin olive oil, for greasing and drizzling
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler: Preheat your oven’s broiler to prepare for cooking the mozzarella and tomatoes quickly with high heat.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a small ovenproof dish with extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Layer the ingredients: Alternately layer the mozzarella slices and halved cherry tomatoes in the dish, spreading them evenly. Then sprinkle the minced garlic over the top for a fragrant touch.
- Drizzle olive oil: Drizzle a bit more extra virgin olive oil over the layered ingredients to help them cook smoothly and add richness.
- Broil the dish: Place the dish on the middle rack of the oven under the broiler. Broil for 4-7 minutes until the mozzarella has melted fully and becomes bubbly and lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven carefully, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping and enjoyment.
Notes
- Keep an eye on the broiler to avoid burning the cheese.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and melting texture.
- Serve immediately after broiling for the best taste and experience.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
Keywords: baked mozzarella, mozzarella recipe, broiled mozzarella, Italian appetizer, tomato mozzarella bake
