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- Cut the fresh mozzarella into thick slices, about 1/2 inch thick. Lay the mozzarella slices between two pieces of bread. If you like, you can spread a thin layer of pesto or tomato paste on the bread for added flavor.
- Gently press the sandwich together to ensure the cheese stays in place while baking.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, coat the sandwich with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere evenly.
- Place the breaded sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly drizzle or spray the tops of the sandwiches with olive oil. This helps the breadcrumbs crisp up and gives them a beautiful golden color.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey inside.
- Once the sandwiches are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before cutting them into halves or quarters.
- Serve with marinara sauce, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkling of fresh basil for an added touch.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Crispy Without the Frying: By baking the sandwiches instead of frying, you still get that golden, crunchy texture but with less mess and fewer calories. The olive oil adds the perfect touch of richness while keeping things lighter.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients – bread, mozzarella, eggs, and breadcrumbs – you can create a dish that’s full of flavor and satisfying.
- Cheese Lovers’ Dream: The mozzarella is the star of the show, and baking it ensures the cheese stays gooey and melty in the center, creating that perfect cheese pull with every bite.
- Versatile: While this dish is delicious on its own, you can serve it with a variety of sides like a fresh salad, tomato soup, or even more Italian-inspired appetizers. You can also mix up the cheeses by adding a bit of provolone or fontina for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts
Baked Mozzarella in Carrozza is the perfect comfort food that’s crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and completely irresistible. By baking instead of frying, you get all the rich flavors of the original dish with less oil, making it a lighter yet just as indulgent treat. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick snack, a satisfying appetizer, or a fun dinner option, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
So, grab some fresh mozzarella, your favorite bread, and a few pantry staples, and get ready to enjoy this crispy, cheesy delight in just a few simple steps. Your taste buds will thank you!
