Homemade Mozzarella Cheese is a fresh, creamy, and incredibly delicious cheese that is surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast, a home cook, or someone looking to create wholesome, preservative-free cheese, this step-by-step recipe will guide you through the simple yet rewarding process of making Homemade Mozzarella Cheese from scratch.
This recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, but the result is a soft, stretchy, and creamy cheese that’s perfect for pizzas, salads, sandwiches, or simply enjoying on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Mozzarella Cheese Recipe
✅ Creamy & Fresh – Enjoy soft, melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple steps with no special equipment required.
✅ No Preservatives – 100% natural and homemade.
✅ Perfect for Any Dish – Use it in pasta, pizza, salads, and more.
✅ Fun & Rewarding – A great DIY project for food lovers!
Ingredients for Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
✔️ 1 gallon whole milk – Use raw or pasteurized milk (not ultra-pasteurized).
✔️ 1 ½ tsp citric acid – Helps curdle the milk and form cheese.
✔️ ¼ tablet rennet (or ½ tsp liquid rennet) – Essential for coagulating the milk.
✔️ 1 tsp non-iodized salt – Enhances the flavor.
✔️ 4 cups water – Used in two portions (dissolving citric acid & rennet).
✔️ Optional: ½ tsp calcium chloride – Helps with curd formation if using store-bought milk.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
1️⃣ Dissolve citric acid in 2 cups of water and set aside.
2️⃣ Dissolve rennet in the remaining 2 cups of water and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Milk & Add Citric Acid
1️⃣ Pour the milk into a large pot and slowly heat to 90°F (32°C) over medium-low heat.
2️⃣ Stir in the dissolved citric acid and mix gently.
Step 3: Add Rennet & Form Curd
1️⃣ Remove from heat and add the dissolved rennet solution.
2️⃣ Stir gently in an up-and-down motion for 30 seconds, then stop stirring.
3️⃣ Cover and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the milk coagulates and forms a solid curd.
Step 4: Cut the Curd & Heat
1️⃣ Using a long knife, cut the curd into 1-inch cubes.
2️⃣ Slowly heat to 105°F (40°C) while gently stirring the curds.
Step 5: Drain & Knead the Curd
1️⃣ Scoop out the curds and drain the whey.
2️⃣ Heat the curds in hot water (or microwave for 30 seconds) to soften.
3️⃣ Knead and stretch the cheese until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 6: Shape & Store
1️⃣ Shape into balls and place in cold water for 5 minutes to firm up.
2️⃣ Sprinkle with salt for enhanced flavor.
3️⃣ Store in a sealed container with a bit of whey to keep it fresh.
How to Use Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
🍕 On Pizza – Melts beautifully for a gooey, stretchy topping.
🥗 In Salads – Pairs well with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.
🥪 In Sandwiches – Adds creaminess to paninis and subs.
🍅 With Fresh Tomatoes – Classic Caprese salad delight.
For more homemade cheese recipes, check out How to Make Ricotta Cheese or The Ultimate Guide to Cheesemaking.
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
✔️ Use High-Quality Milk – Raw or pasteurized, but NOT ultra-pasteurized.
✔️ Check Curd Formation – If the curd is too soft, add extra calcium chloride.
✔️ Don’t Overheat – Too much heat can make the cheese tough.
✔️ Knead Until Smooth – Ensures a perfect stretchy texture.
✔️ Store in Salted Whey – Helps keep the cheese fresh longer.
Health Benefits of Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
🧀 Rich in Protein – Supports muscle growth and repair.
💪 Good Source of Calcium – Strengthens bones and teeth.
🌿 No Additives or Preservatives – A cleaner, healthier option.
🥛 Contains Probiotics – Supports gut health and digestion.
For more on dairy health benefits, check out The Nutritional Power of Dairy.
More Recipes
Looking for more delicious homemade recipes? Try these:
🧀 Mozzarella Stuffed Rosemary Parmesan Soft Pretzels – A cheesy, savory snack perfect for any occasion.
🍗 High Protein Honey BBQ Chicken – A protein-packed, flavorful meal with a smoky-sweet glaze.
🥩 Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry – A quick and nutritious dish full of bold flavors.
🥔 Creamy Garlic Parmesan Potatoes – The ultimate side dish for any meal.
🍰 Baptist Pound Cake with Caramel Icing – A rich and indulgent dessert perfect for gatherings.
FAQs About Homemade Mozzarella Cheese
🔹 Can I use ultra-pasteurized milk?
No, it won’t form curds properly. Use regular pasteurized or raw milk.
🔹 How long does homemade mozzarella last?
It stays fresh for 3-5 days when stored in whey or brine in the fridge.
🔹 Can I freeze homemade mozzarella?
Yes, but the texture may become crumbly. Best used for melted dishes.
🔹 Why is my mozzarella too rubbery?
Overheating or over-kneading can cause a tough texture.
🔹 Can I flavor my mozzarella?
Yes! Try adding herbs, chili flakes, or garlic during the kneading stage.
Other Homemade Cheese Recipes to Try
🥛 Homemade Ricotta Cheese – Soft, creamy, and versatile.
🧀 How to Make Cheddar Cheese – Aged for a sharp, bold flavor.
🍽 Fresh Burrata Recipe – Creamy and indulgent.
For more DIY cheese recipes, explore The Cheesemaker’s Handbook.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Mozzarella Cheese recipe is easy, fun, and rewarding. Whether you’re making it for a pizza night, a cheese platter, or just to enjoy fresh mozzarella at home, this step-by-step guide ensures perfect results every time.
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