Description
These easy 5-ingredient party appetizers feature salty prosciutto, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil for a bold, fuss-free bite. Perfect for gatherings, they’re quick to make, naturally gluten-free, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 thin slices prosciutto (about 3.5 oz / 100g), preferably Parma or San Daniele
- 1 large ball fresh mozzarella (about 8 oz / 225g), cut into 12 cubes (1-inch each)
- 12 whole fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Cube the mozzarella into twelve 1-inch pieces (about 20g each). Wash and pat dry basil leaves. Separate prosciutto slices and lay them flat.
- Place a basil leaf on top of each mozzarella cube. Set each stack at one end of a prosciutto slice. Roll the prosciutto tightly around the cheese and basil, overlapping the ends slightly. Double up prosciutto if slices are very thin.
- Insert a toothpick through the center to secure each bite, or lay seam-side down on the baking sheet if not using toothpicks.
- Brush each wrapped bite lightly with olive oil using a pastry brush or your fingers.
- Sprinkle black pepper over the top. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place bites seam-side down and bake for 8-10 minutes, until prosciutto is crisp and cheese is just starting to melt. Watch closely to avoid overbaking.
- Alternative: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until crisp.
- Let cool for 2-3 minutes before plating. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with extra basil if desired.
- If prepping ahead, assemble and chill bites in the fridge, then bake just before serving. You can also serve them fresh and uncooked for a softer texture.
- Troubleshooting: If cheese leaks out, reduce oven temperature or baking time. If prosciutto tears, use two slices or overlap more.
Notes
For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle lemon zest after baking. Assemble bites up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. Watch closely while baking to prevent cheese from leaking. For vegetarian, substitute prosciutto with roasted red pepper strips. Serve warm for best texture, but bites are also tasty cold.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite (about 1 oz / 30g)
- Calories: 80
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: prosciutto, mozzarella, party appetizer, gluten-free, keto, Italian, finger food, easy, basil, cheese, oven-baked, air fryer