Mozzarella Carrozza is a tasty Italian sandwich that brings gooey melted mozzarella cheese between slices of crispy bread. It’s like a cheesy hug for your taste buds!
This treat is quick to make, and it’s perfect for lunch or a snack. Just fry it until golden brown, and enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauce. I can never resist a second bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: I recommend using white sandwich bread for a classic taste and texture. If you want a bit more flavor, you can try sourdough or whole grain bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the cheese without falling apart.
Fresh Mozzarella: This is key for that glorious melt! If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, you can use low-moisture mozzarella. Just know it won’t be quite as creamy. You can also try provolone for a stronger flavor.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you can’t find them, plain breadcrumbs work too. You can even make your own by grinding up stale bread mixed with some Italian herbs.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade is the best for dipping! But if you’re in a hurry, store-bought works fine. A bit of added parmesan or fresh basil to the sauce can elevate it nicely.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Getting that golden brown, crispy coating on your Mozzarella Carrozza requires some attention to detail. Here’s how you do it:
- First, dry your bread lightly before assembling the sandwiches. This helps keep the coating crispy.
- Ensure each sandwich is well coated in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. This triple layer is essential!
- Don’t skip the double coating with eggs and breadcrumbs for an extra crunch and to prevent any cheese from leaking out during frying.
- Keep the oil hot but not smoking. Too low, and it’ll soak in the oil; too high, and it will burn.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry one or two sandwiches at a time to ensure they cook evenly.
Following these tips will give you beautifully crispy Mozzarella Carrozza that’s sure to impress!
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 all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnishing & Serving:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Marinara sauce (for serving)
What’s the Total Time Needed?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and about 6 minutes to cook, making it perfect for a quick lunch or snack. You’ll be enjoying these cheesy sandwiches in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Take your slices of mozzarella cheese and place them between pairs of bread slices to create four sandwiches. Gently press the edges to seal them up, so your yummy cheese doesn’t escape while frying!
2. Prepare the Coating:
Grab a shallow bowl, and beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper until mixed well. In another shallow dish, place the flour. In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Coat the Sandwiches:
Start by dipping each sandwich into the flour, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Then, dip them into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully covered. Finally, coat each sandwich thoroughly in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well. For an extra crispy finish, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating one more time!
4. Fry the Sandwiches:
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F / 175°C), carefully place the coated sandwiches in the oil. Fry each one for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. You’ll love the sound of that sizzle!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once they’re golden, remove the sandwiches from the oil and let them drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil. Now, slice each sandwich in half diagonally to reveal that gooey mozzarella inside!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your Mozzarella Carrozza with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of salt. Serve them hot alongside warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy this delightful blend of crunchy bread and melted cheese! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar for a twist. Just ensure they’re melty cheeses for the best result!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness.
Can I Make Mozzarella Carrozza in Advance?
You can assemble the sandwiches and coat them in the breadcrumbs ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to fry. This way, you can enjoy them fresh and hot when you want them!
What’s the Best Way to Serve It?
Serve Mozzarella Carrozza hot with marinara sauce for dipping. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top or serve it alongside a simple salad for a complete meal!
