Mozzarella Carrozza is a tasty Italian treat made with gooey mozzarella cheese stuffed between slices of bread. Then, it’s lightly fried until golden and crispy!
It’s like a cheesy, melty hug in every bite! Sometimes, I dip it in marinara sauce, and trust me, it’s a game changer. Perfect for snack time or when you have guests over! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Sandwich Bread: This bread is perfect for the softness needed to hold in the gooey mozzarella. If you want a healthier option, whole wheat or sourdough can also work well!
Fresh Mozzarella: Look for high-quality fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and melting characteristics. If you’re in a pinch, low-moisture mozzarella can be an alternative, but it’s not as creamy.
Eggs: They help bind everything together. If you want a vegan option, consider using a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water, let sit for a few minutes to thicken).
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a great crunch. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, they’ll work too, but you might miss that extra crispiness.
Garlic Powder: This is optional but adds delicious flavor. For a fresh twist, try using minced garlic instead.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Getting that crispy outside is key for Mozzarella Carrozza! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to thoroughly coat each sandwich in flour first. This helps the egg stick better.
- Then, double-dip! After the egg layer, coat again in breadcrumbs for extra crunch. It makes a huge difference.
- Keep the oil at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) when frying. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.
- Don’t overload the pan; fry in batches if necessary to maintain the temperature.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have golden, crisp Mozzarella Carrozza that’s cheesy and delicious!
How to Make Mozzarella Carrozza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices of white sandwich bread, crusts removed
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
For the Breading:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups fine breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For Frying and Serving:
- Vegetable oil or olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Marinara sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Just give it a little time, and you’ll have a deliciously cheesy treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese and Bread:
Start by cutting the mozzarella cheese into slices that will fit nicely between the bread. Take your slices of bread and lay them out on a clean surface. Place one slice of mozzarella on top of one slice of bread, then put another slice of bread on top. Press gently to seal the edges. Repeat this step until all sandwiches are made.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if using, creating a smooth mixture. In another bowl, place the flour for dredging the sandwiches. Lastly, put the breadcrumbs in a third bowl so you can coat the sandwiches evenly.
3. Coat the Sandwiches:
Take one sandwich and dredge it in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture so it’s well coated. Finally, press the sandwich into the breadcrumbs, ensuring every side is nicely covered. For an extra crispy texture, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps!
4. Fry the Sandwiches:
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking, around 350°F (175°C). When ready, carefully place a few sandwiches in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once fried, carefully remove the sandwiches from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve your Mozzarella Carrozza immediately while they’re warm and melty! Pair them with marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Enjoy your crispy, golden, cheesy delight with that tangy tomato dip—classic Mozzarella Carrozza at its best!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Mozzarella Carrozza?
Yes! While white sandwich bread is traditional, you can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even a nice ciabatta if you prefer. Just make sure it’s sliced thin enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free bread and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that the breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Mozzarella Carrozza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best texture when reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to warm them up, as microwaving can make them soggy.
Can I Freeze Mozzarella Carrozza?
Yes, you can freeze them! Allow the cooked sandwiches to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. To reheat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and crispy again.
