Mozzarella Carrozza is a yummy Italian snack made with gooey melted mozzarella cheese tucked between slices of bread. It’s golden and crispy on the outside, making every bite super enjoyable!
This dish always reminds me of my childhood when I would sneak a piece before dinner. It’s so easy to prepare; just cheese and bread, then fry it up! Great for impressing friends or satisfying a late-night craving.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Sandwich Bread: I prefer using white bread for its soft texture, which complements the gooey cheese nicely. If you want a healthier twist, whole grain or sourdough works well too, but might change the flavor slightly.
Fresh Mozzarella: This is the star of the dish! Look for mozzarella packed in water for the best melt. If unavailable, you can use low-moisture mozzarella or substitute with provolone for a different taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a light and crunchy coating. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, though they won’t be quite as crispy. You can even make your own breadcrumbs from stale bread if needed!
Eggs and Milk: This mixture binds everything together. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), or just use a dairy-free substitute for a vegan version.
How Do You Fry Mozzarella Carrozza to Make It Perfectly Crispy?
Frying is essential to achieve that crispy outer layer! Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a heavy skillet for even heat distribution. This prevents sogginess.
- Heat the oil until shimmering but not smoking. The right temperature makes a difference!
- Fry 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this lowers the oil temperature and can make them greasy.
- Rest on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil before serving.
These simple tips will help you create a crispy exterior while keeping the cheesy filling wonderfully melty! Enjoy your delicious Mozzarella Carrozza!
How to Make Mozzarella Carrozza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
For the Breading:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or mixed Italian herbs, finely chopped (optional)
For Frying and Serving:
- Vegetable oil, for frying (such as canola or sunflower oil)
- Marinara sauce or tomato sauce, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mozzarella Carrozza takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes for cooking. In under 30 minutes, you can enjoy this crispy, cheesy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella Sandwiches:
Start by placing a slice of mozzarella cheese between two slices of bread. Gently press down to help seal everything together. Repeat this process until you have 4 sandwiches ready to go!
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
In one shallow bowl, pour in the flour. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and the optional chopped herbs until well combined. In the third bowl, place your breadcrumbs. This setup will make breading the sandwiches a breeze!
3. Coat Your Sandwiches:
Take each sandwich and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it into the egg mixture to coat it thoroughly, and then dredge it in the breadcrumbs to ensure it’s fully covered. For an extra crunchy texture, feel free to repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb process.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a heavy skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect golden crispiness. Make sure the oil isn’t too hot; otherwise, the outside will burn before the inside is melted!
5. Fry the Sandwiches:
Carefully add the sandwiches to the hot skillet. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the oil temperature consistent.
6. Drain Excess Oil:
Once golden and crisp, transfer the sandwiches onto a paper towel-lined plate. This will help soak up any excess oil!
7. Rest and Serve:
Let the Mozzarella Carrozza rest for a minute. This allows the cheese to set slightly but still remain oozy inside. Serve them hot with warm marinara or tomato sauce on the side. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a nice touch!
Enjoy your homemade Mozzarella Carrozza—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and a delightful treat perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone, fontina, or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that gooey texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make Mozzarella Carrozza gluten-free by using gluten-free bread and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just make sure to check the labels on all products to ensure they’re certified gluten-free!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Mozzarella Carrozza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes! If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy!
