These Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls are a delicious bite-sized treat perfect for sharing. Soft, golden dough balls are filled with gooey mozzarella and aromatic pesto, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. Serve them with marinara sauce for dipping, or enjoy them as they are!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
7g (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
½ tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
150ml (⅔ cup) warm water
1 tbsp olive oil
100g (3.5 oz) mozzarella, cut into small cubes
3 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms. Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Assemble the Dough Balls: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Flatten each piece, add a cube of mozzarella and ½ teaspoon of pesto, then seal tightly into a ball.
Bake: Arrange the dough balls on a lined baking tray. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan (if using). Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrients (Per Serving, Approx.)

Calories: 140
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 180mg

Why Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls Are So Delicious

What makes these stuffed dough balls truly special is their rich combination of mozzarella and pesto. The gooey mozzarella provides a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the pesto brings fresh, herby, and garlicky flavors that elevate the dish. The dough itself is soft and airy, giving each bite a satisfying contrast to the filling. Additionally, the exterior becomes beautifully golden and slightly crisp when baked, adding a delightful texture. This fusion of flavors—rich mozzarella, fragrant pesto, and delicate dough—makes the dish a winning choice for any occasion.

The Appeal of Bite-Sized Treats

One of the main reasons why Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls are so appealing is their bite-sized nature. These small, hand-held snacks are perfect for sharing with family and friends. The size also makes them great for appetizers or party snacks, as they can be eaten in one or two bites. Their manageable size also allows guests to enjoy multiple servings without feeling overwhelmed by the portion size. Furthermore, the dough balls can easily be served as a finger food, making them an ideal choice for casual get-togethers, potlucks, or even watching the big game.

A Versatile Snack or Appetizer

Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls are incredibly versatile and can fit seamlessly into various types of meals. You can serve them as an appetizer before a main course or as a side to accompany a hearty meal. They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, which offers a tangy contrast to the rich and creamy filling. Whether enjoyed as part of an Italian-themed meal or as a snack on their own, these dough balls are sure to please.

Additionally, they can be customized to suit a wide range of tastes. While the combination of mozzarella and pesto is a classic, there are plenty of variations you can try. For example, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone or cheddar, or swap out the traditional pesto for sun-dried tomato pesto or even a spicy arugula pesto for a unique twist. If you’re looking to cater to dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily adjust the ingredients, such as using gluten-free flour or dairy-free mozzarella.

Perfect for Sharing

These stuffed dough balls are ideal for social gatherings. Their small, individual portions make them easy to share with friends and family, allowing everyone to enjoy a delicious snack without the need for forks or knives. This makes them a fantastic option for potlucks, parties, or informal gatherings. With the combination of tasty mozzarella and pesto, each bite offers a burst of flavor that will keep your guests coming back for more.

Easy to Make at Home

While some may assume that preparing stuffed dough balls requires advanced baking skills, the process is surprisingly simple. With a few basic ingredients and some time for the dough to rise, you can create these mouthwatering treats from scratch. The recipe involves mixing the dough, letting it rise, assembling the stuffed dough balls, and baking them to perfection. The most challenging part of the recipe is waiting for the dough to rise, but it’s well worth the patience.

Additionally, the recipe allows for flexibility in terms of how much time you have. If you’re in a rush, you can opt for store-bought pesto, and if you’re feeling extra ambitious, you can prepare your own homemade pesto. This versatility makes these dough balls a great choice for both quick meals and leisurely cooking sessions.

Healthier Option with Room for Customization

While these pesto mozzarella stuffed dough balls are undoubtedly delicious, they also provide opportunities for customization to meet various dietary needs. For example, if you want to reduce the calorie count, you can opt for a lower-fat mozzarella or a smaller portion of cheese. You can also adjust the pesto to suit your preference, using less oil or adding more fresh vegetables like spinach or kale to boost the nutritional content. The dough itself can also be altered for different dietary preferences, such as by using whole-wheat flour for added fiber or gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities.

By making small adjustments to the ingredients, you can ensure that these stuffed dough balls fit your specific dietary goals while still maintaining the delicious flavor profile that makes them so popular.

Making These Dough Balls Your Own

One of the best parts of making Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls is the opportunity to get creative with the recipe. You can experiment with different flavor combinations, fillings, and even dipping sauces. For instance, try adding sun-dried tomatoes to the pesto for a slightly sweet, savory flavor, or include some roasted garlic in the dough for added depth. If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can substitute the mozzarella with other soft cheeses such as ricotta or goat cheese.

The dipping sauce options are also endless. In addition to the classic marinara sauce, you could try serving them with a creamy garlic aioli, a balsamic reduction, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick. Whatever you choose, these dough balls are versatile enough to complement any sauce or condiment.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls are suitable for nearly every occasion, making them a great addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, preparing a snack for a movie night, or looking for the perfect appetizer for your next gathering, these dough balls will impress your guests and satisfy their cravings. They’re also a wonderful choice for meal prepping; simply prepare a batch, store them in the fridge or freezer, and reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy.

The ease of preparation, combined with the ability to customize and enjoy them for various occasions, makes these dough balls a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls

Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Dough Balls are a delectable treat that combines the best of both worlds—fluffy, golden dough and savory, gooey cheese, with the vibrant, herby flavor of pesto. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing, while their versatility ensures that they can be enjoyed at any time and for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something delicious, these stuffed dough balls will not disappoint. With the ability to customize the flavors, adjust the ingredients, and serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, they offer endless possibilities for both experienced and beginner cooks alike. Try making these dough balls at home, and you’ll soon discover why they are a favorite among food lovers!

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