Mozzarella in Carrozza Sandwiches

Mozzarella in Carrozza is the ultimate comfort food I crave whenever I need a warm crunchy cheese fix. This Italian classic turns simple pantry staples into golden triangles of gooey mozzarella with a crisp and satisfying exterior. It is a recipe I go back to every time someone pops by unexpectedly or when rainy days call for an extra special snack.

The first time I tasted Mozzarella in Carrozza in Rome I was blown away by how a few slices of bread and cheese could become something so decadent My family begs for it whenever we want a taste of those Italian holidays.

Ingredients

• White bread: With crusts removed works best for a soft but sturdy sandwich Choose a loaf with a tight crumb
• Fresh mozzarella: Select a good quality ball not pre-shredded or low moisture The soft cheese melts perfectly
• Eggs: Give a rich coating and help the bread brown
• Milk: Creates a custardy egg wash making the crust more tender
• Flour: Adds a crisp layer that keeps the filling sealed in
• Sunflower oil: Neutral flavor and high smoke point is ideal for frying
• Salt and pepper: Brightens the cheese and cuts richness Go for flaky salt if you have it

Instructions

Prepare the Egg Wash and Flour:

Combine eggs and milk in a mixing bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper Whisk until smooth and foamy This will yield the creamiest coating Place flour on a plate nearby so you can easily dip each sandwich piece

Slice and Layer the Mozzarella:

Cut the mozzarella into thick even slices Lay two slices of bread on a flat surface and arrange mozzarella evenly over each slice Make sure no cheese pokes out to avoid leaks when frying

Assemble and Cut the Sandwiches:

Top each mozzarella covered slice with another piece of bread Press the sandwiches gently to seal and cut each sandwich into triangles for easier handling and a classic look

Coat with Flour then Egg:

Pour enough sunflower oil into a skillet so it is about one quarter inch deep One by one dredge each sandwich triangle in flour ensuring every edge is covered Then dip into the egg mixture again coating thoroughly and letting excess drip off

Fry Until Golden and Crisp:

When the oil is shimmering hot but not smoking gently add the triangles Fry in small batches about two to three minutes per side Turn with a spatula when the bread is crisp and deep golden brown Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel to drain

My favorite part is watching the mozzarella stretch every time you break open a hot sandwich It always reminds me of making these with my niece during her first trip to visit We laughed so hard trying to get the longest cheese pull

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer for best crispiness Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap white bread for Italian bread or sandwich loaf for more texture Fresh buffalo mozzarella gives an even richer taste If needed use olive oil for frying though it will add a distinct flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve cut triangles alongside a simple tomato sauce or a green salad They also pair beautifully with a bowl of soup on cold nights For a party platter sprinkle with fresh basil or dried oregano just before serving

Cultural and Historical Context

Mozzarella in Carrozza originated in Southern Italy as a clever way to use leftover cheese and stale bread Its name means mozzarella in a carriage because the bread encases and protects the melting cheese like a little carriage

Seasonal Adaptations

Try adding thin slices of ripe tomato to the sandwich in summer Mix a bit of basil or pesto into the mozzarella for a herby kick A dash of crushed red pepper lends warmth during the winter months

Success Stories

I once served these as an appetizer for a game night with friends There were zero leftovers and I had to share the recipe before the night ended

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the sandwiches and freeze them uncooked in a single layer Once frozen store the triangles in a zip top bag and fry straight from the freezer Add an extra minute to the frying time for perfect results

This is the kind of snack that feels special every time you make it. Share it warm and fresh—the golden cheese pull always gets smiles.

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of bread is best for these sandwiches?

Plain white sandwich bread without crusts is ideal, as it holds the cheese well and fries to a delicate crispness.

→ How do I prevent cheese from oozing out while frying?

Ensure mozzarella slices stay within the bread's edges, and seal the sandwich well by pressing before dipping in flour and egg.

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?

Low-moisture mozzarella works best, but mild cheeses that melt smoothly, like scamorza or provolone, can be substituted.

→ Do I need to use sunflower oil for frying?

While sunflower oil is preferred for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, other light oils such as canola also work well.

→ How should these sandwiches be served?

Enjoy hot, ideally right after frying, on their own or with a simple tomato sauce for dipping.