Pallettone di Mozzarella di Bufala Ripieno di Parmigiana Fritto

Pallettone di Mozzarella di Bufala Ripieno di Parmigiana Fritto is an indulgent Neapolitan creation that combines two iconic Italian ingredients into a single decadent dish. The name translates to "large ball of buffalo mozzarella stuffed with fried Parmigiana," and the dish consists of a generous sphere of fresh buffalo mozzarella that is hollowed out and filled with crispy, fried eggplant Parmigiana.

The dish originates from the Campania region of southern Italy, where both buffalo mozzarella and Parmigiana di Melanzane are culinary staples. While the exact inventor is not documented, the dish represents the modern Neapolitan trend of reimagining classic ingredients in over-the-top presentations. A great version relies on the highest quality ingredients: creamy, milky buffalo mozzarella di bufala Campana DOP, firm but tender eggplant, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and a well-balanced blend of Parmigiano-Reggiano and mozzarella for the filling. The eggplant must be fried to a perfect golden crispness before being layered and baked, then stuffed into the mozzarella ball, which is often served at room temperature to allow the cheese to remain soft and luscious.

One notable venue serving this dish is Casa C Bear in Torre del Greco, Italy, as featured by creator Jana Food Porn. The dish exemplifies the region's love for rich, textural contrasts—the cool, silky mozzarella against the warm, crunchy, and savory Parmigiana filling. Regional variations may include the addition of prosciutto or spicy salami, though the classic version remains focused on the pure harmony of cheese and eggplant.