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Mozzarella in Carrozza (Italian Fried Mozzarella Sandwiches)

Mozzarella in Carrozza (Italian Fried Mozzarella Sandwiches)

Mozzarella in Carrozza, also known as Italian Fried Mozzarella Sandwiches, offers a golden, crispy exterior with gooey, melty mozzarella inside. This comforting Italian classic is quick to prepare using simple pantry ingredients, making it perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. Enjoy a perfect balance of textures and authentic Italian flavor with options to customize for dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh mozzarella – thick slices (about 4-6 oz)
  • Soft white bread, crusts removed – 8 slices
  • Eggs – 2 large, beaten
  • Fine breadcrumbs – 1 cup
  • All-purpose flour – ½ cup
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil – for frying (about ¼ inch depth in skillet)
  • Salt – to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
  • Black pepper – to taste (about ¼ teaspoon)

Optional Variations & Add-ins

  • Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil) – 1 teaspoon mixed into breadcrumbs
  • Other cheeses (provolone, fontina, sharp cheddar) – 2-3 slices, optional
  • Thin slices of prosciutto or fresh basil leaves – 4-6 pieces per sandwich, optional
  • Red pepper flakes or chili powder – pinch for spice, optional
  • Gluten-free bread and breadcrumbs – as substitutions for gluten-free option

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Slice fresh mozzarella into thick, even pieces that fit nicely between the bread slices. Remove the crusts from the bread to create tender sandwich edges.
  2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place mozzarella slices between two bread pieces to form sandwiches. Press gently but firmly to hold the cheese in place. Prepare multiple sandwiches if desired.
  3. Bread the Sandwiches: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with fine breadcrumbs. Dredge each sandwich first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently for good adhesion.
  4. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat about ¼ inch of olive oil or vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in hot oil and fry each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Serve immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey. Accompany with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy as is.

Notes

  • Use fresh mozzarella for best melting and creaminess.
  • Press sandwiches lightly before breading to prevent cheese leakage.
  • Maintain medium heat to avoid burning the crust while allowing cheese to melt.
  • For extra crunch, double coat by repeating egg wash and breadcrumb coating before frying.
  • Drain fried sandwiches on paper towels to keep them crispy and less greasy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mozzarella in Carrozza, Italian fried mozzarella sandwiches, crispy mozzarella sandwich, Italian appetizer, fried cheese sandwich