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Baked Mozzarella in Carrozza: A Crispy, Cheesy Delight
If you’re a fan of cheese, crispy bread, and the irresistible combination of both, Baked Mozzarella in Carrozza is the dish you’ve been waiting for. This classic Italian comfort food takes the beloved mozzarella cheese, sandwiched between two slices of bread, and elevates it into a golden, crispy masterpiece. Unlike the traditional deep-fried version, this baked version offers a lighter, equally delicious alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Whether you’re craving a savory snack or looking for a unique appetizer to impress guests, Baked Mozzarella in Carrozza is the perfect choice. The gooey melted mozzarella, the crispy exterior, and the simplicity of the ingredients make this dish both comforting and gourmet at the same time.
What is Mozzarella in Carrozza?
Mozzarella in Carrozza, which translates to “mozzarella in a carriage,” is a classic Italian street food that’s usually made by sandwiching slices of fresh mozzarella between bread, dipping it in egg and breadcrumbs, and frying it to golden perfection. The result is a delicious, crispy exterior with a gooey, melty cheese center. While traditionally fried, this baked version reduces the oil and delivers the same satisfying crunch, making it a slightly lighter but equally indulgent option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Gooey: The bread crisps up beautifully in the oven, while the mozzarella inside melts into a creamy, gooey delight.
- Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this dish in under 30 minutes.
- Lightened-Up: By baking instead of frying, this version of mozzarella in carrozza has all the flavor and texture of the original, without the excess oil.
- Versatile: You can serve it as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a main meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or marinara sauce for a complete dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Fresh mozzarella: For the best melt, use high-quality, fresh mozzarella. If you prefer a firmer cheese, you can use a low-moisture mozzarella, but fresh is ideal for this dish.
- Bread: Use thick slices of Italian bread, like sourdough or a rustic loaf, for the best texture and flavor. The bread needs to be sturdy enough to hold the gooey cheese without falling apart.
- Eggs: To create a light coating that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Breadcrumbs: For the crunchy, golden exterior. You can use regular breadcrumbs or panko for an extra-crispy texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the breadcrumb coating.
- Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil on top before baking helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.
- Salt and pepper: For seasoning.
- Fresh herbs (optional): A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano adds an extra layer of Italian flavor.
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
