Today we’re diving into the world of Italian cuisine with a classic yet simple dish that will tantalize your taste buds – Italian breaded pork cutlets!
Why? Because it’s the other white meat and chicken gets boring if you make it too often! So, whether you’re a whiz in the kitchen or just starting, this recipe is going to be your new go-to for a quick and delicious meal. So, let’s get cooking!
This meat entree is simple to make and it has some room for variance and style when it comes to serving. Read on to learn what the heck I am talking about!
Table of Contents
Italian Breaded Pork Cutlets Kitchen Essentials
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s make sure your kitchen is decked out with the essentials:
- A large mixing bowl
- A shallow dish for breading
- A frying pan (for pan-frying) or an air fryer
- A whisk or fork (for beating eggs)
- A meat tenderizer (optional, but handy)
- Tongs or a spatula for flipping those cutlets to perfection
Italian Breaded Pork Cutlets: Ingredients
There is a little room to change up the recipe here, especially if you don’t want the full Italian flavoring, then you can change out the breadcrumbs or make your own.
For the magic to happen, you’ll need:
- Pork cutlets
- Italian breadcrumbs (you can make your own or buy them or use plain for a less intense flavor)
- Eggs
- Parmesan Reggiano (grated)
- Olive oil (we suggest Extra Virgin)
Tenderizing the Pork Cutlets
- Prepare Your Workspace: Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on your kitchen counter.
- Place the Cutlets: Put a pork cutlet on the plastic wrap.
- Cover: Place another piece of plastic wrap over the cutlet. This prevents splattering and keeps your meat tenderizer clean.
- Get Pounding: Using a meat tenderizer or a rolling pin, gently pound the cutlet starting from the center and working your way out. Aim for an even thickness, about 1/4 inch, for even cooking.
- Repeat: Do this for all four cutlets.
Overview of Making Italian Breaded Pork Cutlets
- Preparation: Start by tenderizing the pork cutlets to even thickness.
- Breading: Whisk the eggs in a bowl. In another shallow dish, mix Italian breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan. Dip each cutlet into the egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Cooking: You can either pan-fry these beauties in olive oil or go for a healthier version by using an air fryer. If pan-frying, make sure the oil is hot enough so the cutlets sizzle as soon as they hit the pan. For air frying, no additional oil is necessary, but a light spray can prevent drying out.
Pro tips For the Breaded Pork Cutlets To Make Prep And Cleanup Easier
Honestly, this is one of those super easy-to-make meat entrees that you will love when you are done. Keep things simple use a zippered plastic bag for breading and toss the extra out.
If you don’t want to make a mess on your countertop, work in the sink. When you are done wash away the egg residue and breadcrumbing. Easy peasy!
Serving Suggestions To Pair with Italian Breaded Pork Cutlets
Alright, now let’s talk about pairing these crispy cutlets with the perfect sides.
Here are some top picks:
- Beans and Greens: A classic Italian combo that brings a fresh and earthy balance.
- Italian Saffron Rice: For a luxurious and aromatic touch.
- Pasta: Because, let’s face it, pasta and cutlets are a match made in heaven.
Alternative Breading Options For The Breaded Pork Cutlets
- zest fresh lemon while they are pan-frying
- use basic parmesan cheese
- use panko crumbs
- use traditional breadcrumbs unflavored and add flavoring of your choice (chili lime, etc)
- use orange zest to change the flavor and plain breadcrumbs and serve with rice for Asian-style cutlets
If you love this recipe you will love our easy-to-make eggplant cutlets!
The Printable Recipe Card For Italian Breaded Pork Cutlets
Print, share, and come back and leave me comments on how your breaded pork cutlets turned out and what sides you plated them with.
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