Mozzarella Carrozza is a tasty Italian treat that’s like a cheesy sandwich! It has gooey mozzarella cheese stuffed between crispy bread and then fried until golden brown.
This crispy goodness is perfect for a snack or a light meal. I love to dip it in marinara sauce—it makes every bite even better. Get ready to enjoy a cheesy delight! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Sandwich Bread: This is essential for making the carrozza crispy and soft inside. If you need a substitution, try using sourdough or ciabatta for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s fresh!
Fresh Mozzarella: Look for mozzarella packed in water for the best melting quality. If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you could use low-moisture mozzarella; just keep in mind it won’t be as creamy. I personally love using buffalo mozzarella for its richer taste!
Eggs: The eggs help bind everything together. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, use a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce, which will still provide some binding but without the eggs.
Italian-Style Breadcrumbs: These add great flavor and crunch. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Panko can also be a fun alternative if you want extra crunch!
How Do I Make Sure My Carrozza Is Crunchy and Not Greasy?
Frying is where you create that crispy outer layer, so the temperature of the oil is key! Use a thermometer to ensure it’s at 350°F (175°C). If it’s too low, the bread will soak up the oil and get greasy. A quick test is to drop in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle immediately.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the pan—just fry one or two at a time.
- When ready, place fried carrozza on paper towels to absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.
For added flavor, sprinkle some Italian herbs into your breadcrumb mixture! This little touch enhances the overall taste.
Mozzarella Carrozza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices of white sandwich bread, crusts removed
- 10 oz (280 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
For the Batter and Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
- 1 cup (100 g) Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 20 minutes to enjoy delicious Mozzarella Carrozza—from kitchen to table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Start by placing a slice of mozzarella cheese between two slices of bread. Gently press down to help seal them together. This will create your cheesy sandwiches!
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the sandwiches.
3. Mix the Breadcrumbs:
In another shallow bowl, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese. This will give your breading extra flavor!
4. Coat the Sandwiches:
Take each sandwich and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring you cover both sides well. Then, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well. For a thicker coating, you can repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb dredge.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Use a thermometer to check that it reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying.
6. Fry the Sandwiches:
Carefully place one or two sandwiches at a time into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s better to fry in batches!
7. Drain Excess Oil:
Once fried, transfer the mozzarella sandwiches to a paper towel-lined plate to help drain any excess oil.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top of your crispy sandwiches for a pop of color. Serve them hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
Enjoy every gooey, cheesy bite of this Italian classic while it’s still warm and melty! Buon appetito!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While white sandwich bread is traditional, you can experiment with sourdough, ciabatta, or whole grain bread for different flavors and textures. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap. Just coat them in the egg and breadcrumbs right before frying to keep them crispy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to help regain some crispiness. Microwaving can make them soggy.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Definitely! You can add slices of ham, basil leaves, or even tomatoes for extra flavor. Just keep in mind not to overfill the sandwiches, so they remain easy to handle while frying.
