A classic Italian fried cheese sandwich, golden and crispy outside with a warm, gooey mozzarella center. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.
15 min prep
8 min cook
4 servings
420 kcal/serving
Ingredients
8 slices white bread, crusts removed
8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 4 pieces
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup fine breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
Anchovy fillets (optional), 4 pieces
Fresh basil leaves (optional), 4 leaves
Instructions
Place 4 slices of bread on a work surface. Top each with a slice of mozzarella, and if desired, an anchovy fillet and a basil leaf. Cover with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
In a shallow dish, mix flour with salt and pepper. Place beaten eggs in another shallow dish, and breadcrumbs in a third.
Gently press each sandwich to seal. Dredge each side in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering (350°F/175°C).
Fry sandwiches in batches, 2 at a time, for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese is melted. Drain on paper towels.
Serve immediately, whole or cut in half diagonally.
Tips
Use day-old bread for better texture and to prevent sogginess.
For extra crispiness, double-coat the sandwiches: flour, egg, breadcrumbs, then egg and breadcrumbs again.