Mozzarella Wrapped in Prosciutto: The Perfect 10-Minute Appetizer
Mozzarella Wrapped in Prosciutto
An elegant yet effortless appetizer—creamy mozzarella wrapped in savory prosciutto, perfect for any occasion.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces 1x
Ingredients
- 12 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- 6 thin slices of prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 12 small fresh basil leaves (optional)
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)
- Toothpicks, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Drain the mozzarella and pat dry. If the balls are large, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Halve each prosciutto slice lengthwise.
- Lay a strip of prosciutto flat, top with a basil leaf (if using), and place a mozzarella ball at one end. Roll into a snug wrap. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Arrange on a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with basil if desired. Add toothpicks for serving ease.
Notes
Choose high-moisture mozzarella and deli-sliced prosciutto for best texture. Can be made up to 6 hours ahead and served cold or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: mozzarella, prosciutto, appetizer, low carb, easy, elegant
Mozzarella Wrapped in Prosciutto: The Simple, Elegant Appetizer You’ll Want to Serve Again and Again
There’s something magical about recipes that look fancy but take almost no effort. Mozzarella wrapped in prosciutto is exactly that kind of dish. It’s the ultimate quick appetizer—creamy, salty, beautifully presented, and ready in 10 minutes or less. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, building a holiday charcuterie board, or prepping a romantic picnic, this recipe delivers with both taste and style.
I first made these bites during a Sunday family brunch, just grabbing what I had in the fridge. The result? A plate of elegant little rolls that disappeared in minutes. Since then, they’ve become a go-to for me whenever I need something easy, impressive, and crowd-pleasing.
As someone who loves hosting without the stress, I’ve come to appreciate recipes that balance flavor, texture, and speed. This one hits all three. With the creamy richness of mozzarella and the savory, paper-thin prosciutto, it feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s the kind of dish that lets the ingredients shine.
If you’re planning a seasonal spread or themed brunch, these bites pair beautifully with colorful boards like our Valentine’s Day Breakfast Board Ideas.
Why You’ll Love This Appetizer
- Ready in just 10 minutes
- No cooking or baking involved
- Naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly
- Only 2 to 3 ingredients needed
- Elegant presentation with minimal effort
- Crowd-pleaser for all occasions
- Works great as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger board
This recipe has also become one of my “secret weapons” when I want to elevate a last-minute get-together or give a casual gathering a slightly more special touch. It’s ideal for wine nights, Sunday brunches, garden parties, and even holidays.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Plus Tips)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh mozzarella balls | 12 pieces | Use bocconcini or ciliegine |
| Thin prosciutto slices | 6 slices | Halve them lengthwise |
| Fresh basil leaves (optional) | 12 small leaves | Adds a touch of freshness |
| Balsamic glaze (optional) | To drizzle | Choose a thick, aged version |
| Toothpicks (optional) | For serving | Helps keep wraps neat |
Tip: Pat the mozzarella dry so the prosciutto adheres better and the wraps hold their shape.
Try to buy prosciutto that’s freshly sliced from the deli counter—it’s usually thinner, less dry, and easier to work with. As for mozzarella, aim for high-moisture, creamy versions. Dry mozzarella tends to be too firm for this.
How to Make Mozzarella Wrapped with Prosciutto
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Drain the mozzarella and pat dry. If using larger balls, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Halve each slice of prosciutto lengthwise to create strips that are easier to roll.
Step 2: Wrap the Cheese
Lay a strip of prosciutto flat on a cutting board. Place a basil leaf on top (if using), then add a mozzarella ball at one end. Roll the prosciutto around the cheese to form a snug, bite-sized wrap. Repeat until all mozzarella is wrapped.
Step 3: Plate and Serve
Arrange your prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella on a serving platter. For a more refined presentation, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze and garnish with additional fresh basil. Add toothpicks if serving buffet-style.
You can also add them to a small bowl of arugula with a dash of olive oil and cracked black pepper for a quick Italian-style salad. They’re a simple addition to any starter menu, just like this rich and satisfying Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Chicken.
Easy Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ways to change it up based on what you have or what your guests love:
| Try This | Instead of This | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked salmon | Prosciutto | A fresh, briny twist |
| Arugula or spinach | Basil | Earthier, peppery notes |
| Goat cheese or feta cubes | Mozzarella | Richer flavor and tang |
| Fig jam or thin fig slices | Plain wrap | Sweet and savory balance |
| Roasted red peppers | Fresh basil | Smoky, soft and flavorful |
For a warm version, broil the wrapped bites for 2–3 minutes—just enough to slightly crisp the prosciutto and soften the cheese.
Nutrition Information (Per Piece)
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90 | 7g | 6g | 1g |
Values are approximate and based on mozzarella and prosciutto only.
This appetizer is naturally low-carb and fits well within keto and Mediterranean diet plans. It also provides a good dose of protein and healthy fats while remaining light and satisfying.
Serving Ideas
- Add to a charcuterie or antipasto board alongside olives, nuts, and grapes
- Serve over arugula with olive oil for a quick salad
- Pair with crusty bread, marinated artichokes, or grilled zucchini
- Include in a brunch spread with frittata, fruit, and croissants
- Serve as a low-carb appetizer before pasta or risotto
This dish pairs wonderfully as a light appetizer before hearty Italian-inspired meals like this cozy Italian Wedding Lasagna Soup.
When entertaining, presentation matters. These little bites look best on a neutral-colored ceramic plate or slate board. Scatter a few herbs around for an elegant finish.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Wraps can be prepared up to 6 hours in advance
- Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Serve cold or at room temperature (ideal flavor and texture)
- Do not freeze—the texture of mozzarella will change after thawing
If making them ahead for an event, wait until just before serving to add the balsamic glaze or fresh herbs to maintain freshness and visual appeal.
What to Serve with Mozzarella Wrapped in Prosciutto
- Mini Beef Wellington – Perfect Party Dish
great for entertaining alongside savory bites - Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe
light, crisp, and a perfect contrast to prosciutto - My Grandma’s Best Potato Salad Recipe
creamy, hearty, and classic — crowd-pleaser! - Mediterranean Quinoa Power Bowl
a wholesome grain salad with fresh Mediterranean flair - Garlic Butter Beef Chops & Cheesy Potato Bake
rich, indulgent pairing for a protein-packed combo
Anna’s Real-Life Experience
I can’t count how many times this little recipe has saved the day. One rainy afternoon, my neighbors dropped by with a bottle of white wine and no warning. I had no cake, no snacks, nothing baked. But I did have mozzarella and prosciutto. Ten minutes later, we were all gathered around the kitchen island, nibbling these bites and laughing like old friends. That’s the kind of magic I love to share.
What I’ve realized over the years is that people remember the feeling of a meal more than the details. When you serve something warm-hearted, even simple, it shows. That’s why I come back to this recipe again and again—it’s more than food, it’s a little invitation to connect.
And when I want to end those evenings with something sweet and citrusy, nothing beats this crowd-favorite Lemon Dream Cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, absolutely. You can assemble the wraps a few hours before serving. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge and take them out 10 to 15 minutes before your guests arrive. Wait until the last moment to add any glaze or fresh herbs to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.
These bites are best served cold or at room temperature. That way, the mozzarella stays soft and creamy, and the prosciutto keeps its delicate texture. If you’d like to serve them warm, you can briefly heat them under the broiler—but keep an eye on them, as mozzarella melts fast.
Small, fresh mozzarella balls—like bocconcini or ciliegine—work best. Their size is perfect for finger food, and they’re tender enough to pair well with the salty prosciutto. Just be sure to pat them dry with a paper towel before wrapping, so everything holds together nicely.
Freezing isn’t recommended for this appetizer. Once thawed, mozzarella tends to release extra moisture and lose its creamy texture, while prosciutto can become rubbery. These wraps are at their best when made fresh and enjoyed the same day.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those recipes that makes you feel like a chef with almost zero effort. It’s elegant, practical, and most of all, it brings people together. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just want something tasty on a quiet night in, this dish never fails.
If you try it, let me know how it went. I love hearing your kitchen stories. And if you’re curious about mastering classic bread with less effort, I highly recommend our Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
