Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
- 5 teaspoons mayonnaise (optional)
- 4 slices white bread, crust removed
- 5 ounces firm fresh low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
For the Coating:
- 2 large eggs, room temperature and lightly beaten
- 2/3 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs (optional)
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
For Frying:
- 1/2 cup neutral vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: If using mayonnaise, spread it evenly on one side of each slice of bread for added flavor and moisture.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Place slices of mozzarella cheese on two of the bread slices (on the mayonnaise side if used). Top each with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
- Mix the wet coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk, seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Mix the dry coating: In another shallow bowl, combine the flour (and panko breadcrumbs if using) with salt and pepper, mixing well.
- Coat the sandwiches: Working one at a time, fully dip each sandwich in the egg-milk mixture so all sides are coated. Then transfer to the flour mixture, coating all sides evenly. Place the coated sandwiches on a parchment-lined tray.
- Refrigerate: Chill the coated sandwiches in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to help the coating set and adhere properly.
- Heat the oil: In a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat neutral vegetable oil to about 1-inch depth until shimmering and hot enough for frying (around 350°F or medium heat).
- Fry the sandwiches: Carefully place the sandwiches in the hot oil. Fry for about 2 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and fry for another 2 minutes until evenly golden and the cheese is melted inside.
- Drain and cut: Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, cut through the sandwiches cleanly by stopping before cutting through the cheese center on both sides to maintain gooeyness.
- Serve: Serve the Mozzarella In Carrozza warm and enjoy the crispy, cheesy deliciousness immediately.
Notes
- Using mayonnaise on the bread is optional but adds moisture and flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs contribute extra crunch but can be omitted for a simpler coating.
- Ensure the oil temperature is hot enough to fry quickly without absorbing excess oil—medium heat works best.
- Cool briefly after frying to avoid burning your mouth on hot melted cheese.
- Use a serrated knife to get clean cuts without squeezing out the gooey cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian