Copycat Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta

There’s something undeniably comforting about gathering around a warm, bubbling dish of melted cheese, and Copycat Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta brings that cozy magic right into your home. This dish isn’t just a starter — it’s an experience. Fonduta, the Italian cousin of fondue, has deep roots in northern Italy, where chilly evenings call for rich, melty cheeses shared with friends and family.

For many of us, fonduta became familiar thanks to Olive Garden’s version, a creamy, smoky, and utterly indulgent dip served with crisp crostini. I remember the first time I tasted it at a family dinner — the golden, bubbly cheese, the subtle hint of smoke, the satisfying stretch as you pull a piece onto your plate. It became a ritual: no meal at Olive Garden was complete without it.

Now, making Copycat Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta at home has become a tradition in my kitchen, especially when hosting friends or looking to recreate that restaurant magic on a quiet evening. Whether for game night, holiday gatherings, or a simple weekend treat, this dish delivers the warm, communal feel that makes it so special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This smoked mozzarella fonduta is everything you crave: gooey, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned with herbs. It’s an easy yet impressive appetizer that will make any meal feel like a special occasion. With a few pantry staples and some good-quality cheese, you can bring restaurant-quality flavor to your table — no reservations needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 ounces smoked mozzarella, shredded
• 4 ounces provolone, shredded
• 4 ounces parmesan, shredded
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 small baguette or Italian bread, sliced and toasted

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta

Making Copycat Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta is simpler than you think, and it’s sure to become a go-to dish whenever you want to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). The high heat ensures the cheese gets perfectly bubbly and browned on top.
2. Mix the cheese blend
   In a medium bowl, combine the smoked mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, sour cream, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. I love using my hands to gently toss everything together — it feels rustic and hands-on, just like how Italian home cooks would do it.
3. Transfer to a baking dish
   Spoon the mixture into a small baking dish or cast iron skillet. I prefer using a small skillet because it retains heat beautifully, keeping the fonduta warm and gooey for longer.

1. Bake to golden perfection
   Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with golden brown spots on top. When you pull it out, it should look irresistibly molten and smell like a cozy Italian trattoria.
2. Serve with toasted bread
   While the cheese bakes, toast your sliced baguette or Italian bread until crisp. Serve the fonduta hot, straight from the oven, with the crostini on the side for dipping. Watching your guests break through that cheesy top and scoop up the gooey layers underneath is a joy every time.

Helpful Tips

• Use high-quality smoked mozzarella for the best flavor.
• Shred the cheese yourself instead of buying pre-shredded — it melts more smoothly.
• Warm your serving dish beforehand to help keep the cheese hot longer at the table.
• Customize the seasoning by adding garlic powder, fresh herbs, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra kick.
• Double the recipe if serving a crowd — this dish disappears fast!

Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

This recipe works beautifully as a party appetizer, but it’s just as lovely served as part of a cozy dinner for two. You can also pair it with fresh vegetables or crackers for a gluten-free option.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving — approximate)
Calories: 250
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 12g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the cheese mixture a day ahead and bake it just before serving.

What can I serve with this fonduta besides bread?
Try fresh veggie sticks, pita chips, or even apple slices for a sweet-savory twist.

How do I make it spicier?
Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover fonduta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly again. Note that the texture may change slightly after chilling but will still be delicious.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Brazilian Chicken Pot Pie: A Warm Slice of Brazilian Tradition
• Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole
• Copycat Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta
• Creamy Mushroom Asiago Chicken

Conclusion

There’s something timeless about sharing a dish like Copycat Olive Garden Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta — it’s about more than just melted cheese. It’s about the warmth of gathering, the laughter at the table, and the memories created over simple, comforting food. Bring a little bit of that restaurant magic home and make your next gathering unforgettable.

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