Mozzarella Carrozza is a tasty Italian treat that’s like a cheesy sandwich. It features gooey mozzarella between slices of bread, all golden and crispy from frying!
This dish is perfect for a quick snack or a fun appetizer. I mean, who can resist that melty cheese? Whenever I make it, I can’t help but sneak a few bites before serving! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Mozzarella: The star of this dish! Look for high-quality fresh mozzarella. If you can’t find it, low-moisture mozzarella works too but won’t be as melty. I sometimes mix in a bit of provolone for added flavor!
Breadcrumbs: I love using panko breadcrumbs because they create a super crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular Italian breadcrumbs will do the job. Just crunch them up a bit for more flakiness!
Eggs: These help bind the coating. If you’re avoiding eggs, try a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or a store-bought egg replacer. It works surprisingly well!
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have dried oregano, feel free to mix in basil or thyme. Fresh herbs can also bring a delightful twist to the flavor. Just be cautious with amounts, as fresh herbs are more potent.
What’s the Best Way to Fry Mozzarella Carrozza without Messing Up?
Frying can seem intimidating, but with a few tips, you’ll be a pro! First, make sure your oil is hot (350°F) before adding the sandwiches; this helps prevent sogginess.
- Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of bread. It should sizzle immediately.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this lowers the oil’s temperature and leads to uneven cooking.
- Fry in batches if needed, and remember to flip carefully using a slotted spatula.
Letting the bread cool on paper towels after frying helps keep it crunchy. Enjoying these hot is key for that perfect gooey center!
Mozzarella Carrozza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices white sandwich bread (crusts removed)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
For the Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs (optional), for garnish
- Marinara sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep plus around 10 minutes for frying, making it a quick and delicious treat. If you choose to chill the sandwiches for about 20 minutes, it helps enhance the flavors and prevent cheese spillage while frying. Overall, expect about 45 minutes from prep to plate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Start by taking 4 slices of bread and lay them flat. Place a slice of mozzarella on each. Top with the remaining slices of bread to form sandwiches. Gently press down to seal everything together.
2. Prepare Coating Stations:
In one shallow dish, pour in the flour. In another, whisk the eggs together, adding a pinch of salt and pepper. Finally, in a third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, additional salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to coat! First, take each sandwich and dredge it in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring the bread is well-coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides. This will give your carrozza a delicious crispy crust!
4. Chill (Optional but Recommended):
To help the breading stick, place your sandwiches on a plate and pop them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. This step is optional but really helps maintain that crispy coating while frying!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 1/2 inch of the bottom. Heat it over medium heat. You can tell it’s ready when it reaches about 350°F (175°C) or if a little piece of bread sizzles right away when added.
6. Fry the Sandwiches:
Carefully place your sandwiches into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed for the best results!
7. Drain and Serve:
Using a slotted spatula, take the fried mozzarella carrozza out of the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. If you like, sprinkle a bit of salt and dried herbs over the top while they’re still hot.
8. Serve Hot:
Cut each sandwich in half, and serve them immediately with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy the delicious gooey mozzarella inside with a crispy exterior!
Dig in and savor every bite of this cheesy delight! 😋
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While fresh mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone or fontina for added flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will melt at different rates, so watch your cooking time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mozzarella carrozza 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 maintain that crispy texture.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular Italian breadcrumbs work just fine! For extra crunch, you can crush up some cornflakes or potato chips as a fun substitute.
Can I Make These in the Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated sandwiches in a single layer (in batches if necessary) and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. This is a healthier option that still delivers great flavor!
