Golden, crispy, and super cheesy, Mozzarella is pure Italian comfort food that instantly makes you crave more and more.
Mozzarella in Carrozza literally means “mozzarella in a carriage” and the name comes from the idea that goey mozzarella is “carried” between two slices of bread, almost like it’s sitting inside a edible vehicle (I know, it’s a stretch but use your imagination for this).
In the old days, leftover bread was used as the “carriage” to hold the cheese together while frying, keeping everything neatly in place and preventing the mozzarella from escaping. Originating in southern italy, more specifically Naples, this fried mozzarella sandwich quickly became very popular in the rest of Italy. Nowadays, its appeals lies in its beautiful simplicity: soft bread, creamy mozzarella and a crispy golden coating that fries to perfect. With each bite, you get a satisfying contrast between super crunchy exterior and a warm gooey cheese inside.
Mozzarella in Carrozza is the perfect snack for aperitivo hour or as an irresistable appetizer for family dinners. With just a few staple ingredients that you probably already have at home, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Measurements written below)
- Sandwich bread
- Fresh mozzarella
- Eggs
- Flour
- Breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
Tips
- Pat the mozzarella very dry to prevent sogginess, using a paper towel.
- Double-coating helps keep the cheese from leaking out during frying.
- Fry in small batches for even browning.
- Serve immediately for the best result and texture.
Variations
- Herb and Spice Twist: Add dried oregano or parsley or spices like black pepper and paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cheesy Mix: Combine mozzarella with provolone or caciocavallo for extra flavor.
- Stuffed Version: Add a thin layer of sauce for a pizza flavored version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Air Fryer Option: Lightly spray sandwiches with oil and air fry until crisp. The result will be a bit different but still delicious.
Ingredients
Method
- Drain the mozzarella, slice it, and pat each slice dry using a paper towel.
- Place mozzarella between two slices of soft bread, add a pinch of salt, and press gently.
- Prepare three bowls: one with beaten eggs, one with flour, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Coat each sandwich in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Repeat with egg and breadcrumbs for a double coating, then chill for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat, (the best temperature for frying is 350-375F). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test if the oil is hot enough by dipping the tip of a wooden toothpick into it, if it bubbles steadily around it, the oil is ready for frying.
- Fry sandwiches until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot, with optional tomato sauce.
