Classic Mozzarella en Carrozza

Craving something warm, gooey, and deeply satisfying? Mozzarella en Carrozza literally “mozzarella in a carriage” is a decadent Italian spin on the grilled cheese sandwich, featuring melty mozzarella tucked between slices of bread, dipped in a savory egg mixture, coated in breadcrumbs, and pan-fried until golden brown.

Served with a bright, garlicky marinara sauce for dipping, this dish is comfort food at its best and it comes together with just a few pantry staples.

Here’s how to make it at home, whether you're feeding a crowd or indulging in a solo weekend brunch.

Ingredients

For the Mozzarella en Carrozza

• 1 ball fresh mozzarella, sliced 1/4 inch thick

• 4 slices white bread, crusts trimmed

• 2 large eggs, beaten (add more as needed)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic

• 1 heaping teaspoon minced flat-leaf parsley

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Plain breadcrumbs, for coating

• Olive oil, for shallow frying

For the Quick Marinara Sauce (yields ~3 cups)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• Pinch of sugar

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

How to Make It

Step 1: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Place mozzarella slices on two slices of bread, covering the surface evenly.

• Top with the remaining bread slices and press down gently to compact the sandwiches.

Step 2: Prep the Egg Coating

• In a bowl, whisk the eggs with garlic and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.

• Spread breadcrumbs on a plate for dredging.

Step 3: Fry the Sandwiches

• Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, then dredge in breadcrumbs, coating both sides.

• Fry until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side, flipping carefully.

• Drain on paper towels and slice in half.

Quick Marinara Sauce

While your sandwiches cool slightly, make the marinara:

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and a pinch of sugar. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

5. Stir in chopped basil and parsley before serving.

This quick sauce adds brightness and balances the richness of the fried sandwich with fresh, herby notes.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt, but pat it dry to avoid soggy bread.

• Chill the assembled sandwiches for 10 minutes before frying to help them hold together.

• Use day-old bread if possible it holds up better to the egg dip and frying process.

• Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Mozzarella en Carrozza is a timeless Italian dish that transforms simple ingredients into something special. Whether you're celebrating a cozy night in or looking for a nostalgic meal that impresses, this recipe is your go-to for indulgence with a side of elegance.

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