Name: Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb pork tenderloin; kosher salt; black pepper; 1 pinch Cayenne pepper; 4 tsp dijon mustard; 2 oz Monterey Jack cheese; 2 tbsp italian parsley; For Breading:; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 1 cup panko bread crumbs; olive oil

This delightful recipe for folded pork cutlets transforms simple pork tenderloin into a gourmet dish. With hints of cayenne pepper and dijon mustard, paired with the creamy richness of monterey jack cheese, you'll create a meal that is both elegant and comforting.

Photos of Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe

While most of the ingredients are common, you might need to visit the supermarket for pork tenderloin and monterey jack cheese. These items are essential for achieving the tender texture and creamy flavor that make this dish special.

Ingredients for Folded Pork Cutlets

pork tenderloin: A lean and tender cut of meat perfect for this recipe

kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the pork

black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthy flavor

cayenne pepper: Provides a spicy kick

dijon mustard: Offers a tangy and sharp taste

monterey jack cheese: Melts beautifully to add creaminess

italian parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note

all-purpose flour: Helps the egg and breadcrumbs adhere to the cutlets

egg: Acts as a binding agent for the breadcrumbs

panko bread crumbs: Creates a crispy coating

olive oil: Used for frying the cutlets to a golden brown

One reader, Layne Mccann says:

This folded pork cutlets recipe is a game-changer! The tender pork, gooey cheese, and crispy breading create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Easy to follow and absolutely delicious.

Layne Mccann

Key Techniques for Mastering Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe

Yes.

How to pound pork tenderloin: Place each half of the tenderloin between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound it to ⅛-inch thickness. How to fold pork cutlets: Fold the pointiest end ⅓ of the way, then fold in the sides, and give the pork another fold by folding the remaining end on top. How to dredge cutlets: Dust the cutlets with flour, dip them in beaten egg, and then cover them with bread crumbs. How to cook cutlets: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and cook each cutlet until the crust is browned and the meat springs back when poked, about 4 to 5 minutes per side.

How To Make Folded Pork Cutlets

These pork cutlets have a creamy and cheesy surprise folded in by crispy and flavorful pork tenderloins coated with flour, egg, and panko bread crumbs.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Rest Time: 10 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbpork tenderloin,trimmed
kosher salt,to taste
black pepper,freshly ground, to taste
1pinchcayenne pepper
4tspDijon mustard
2ozMonterey Jack cheese
2tbspItalian parsley,fresh, chopped

For Breading:

2tbspall-purpose flour,or as needed
1egg,beaten
1cuppanko bread crumbs,or as needed
olive oil,for frying

Instructions

Cut tenderloin in half lengthwise. Place each half between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to ⅛-inch thickness.
Season pork with salt, pepper, and cayenne; spread a thin layer of mustard on top. Grate Monterey Jack cheese onto the pork. Sprinkle parsley on top.
Fold in the pointiest end ⅓ of the way. Fold in the sides. Give pork another fold; fold remaining end on top. Flip cutlets seam-side down in the plastic wrap and lightly pound until flattened.
Unwrap cutlets and season again with salt, pepper, and cayenne. Dust on all sides with flour until lightly coated. Place beaten egg and bread crumbs in two shallow dishes. Dredge each cutlet in egg, then cover with bread crumbs. Let cutlets rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Heat at least ¼-inch oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook each cutlet until crust is browned and until meat springs back when poked, 4 to 5 minutes per side.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 591.57kcal
Fat: 24.54g
Saturated Fat: 9.43g
Trans Fat: 0.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.84g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.54g
Carbohydrates: 28.79g
Fiber: 1.96g
Sugar: 1.34g
Protein: 60.73g
Cholesterol: 252.63mg
Sodium: 776.16mg
Calcium: 311.86mg
Potassium: 1002.86mg
Iron: 4.00mg
Vitamin A: 108.44µg
Vitamin C: 5.13mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Folded Pork Cutlets

When pounding the pork tenderloin to ⅛-inch thickness, use a meat mallet or rolling pin. Start from the center and work your way outwards to ensure even thickness. This helps the cutlets cook uniformly and makes folding easier.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Folded Pork Cutlets

Prepare ingredients in advance: Pre-measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth cooking process.

Use a meat mallet: A meat mallet can quickly pound the pork tenderloin to the desired thickness, saving time and effort.

Preheat the oil: Start heating the olive oil while you bread the cutlets. This way, the oil is ready when you are.

Grate cheese ahead: Grate the Monterey Jack cheese before you start assembling the cutlets to streamline the process.

Organize breading station: Set up your breading station with flour, egg, and panko in a row to make the process faster and more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe

pork tenderloin - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean meat that can be pounded thin and used in place of pork tenderloin for a similar texture and flavor profile.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity level, making it a good alternative for seasoning.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor without the black specks, which can be useful for aesthetic purposes.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika offers a milder heat and a similar color, making it a good alternative for those who prefer less spice.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar tangy flavor but with a slightly different texture due to the mustard seeds.
monterey jack cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a similar meltability and mild flavor, making it a good substitute for Monterey Jack.
italian parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to parsley, though with a slightly different taste profile.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent and for breading, providing a similar texture to flour.
egg - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can be used to help breading adhere to the meat, offering a similar binding effect as egg.
panko bread crumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes provide a similar crunchy texture and can be used as a breading alternative.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying or sautéing.

Presenting Folded Pork Cutlets for Maximum Appeal

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the pork cutlets into elegant, bite-sized pieces to create a refined presentation suitable for a high-end dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a delicate sprinkle of finely chopped italian parsley and a few shavings of monterey jack cheese for a touch of color and sophistication.
Create height: Stack the pork cutlets pieces slightly on top of each other to add visual interest and dimension to the plate.
Add a sauce: Drizzle a light dijon mustard sauce around the plate to complement the flavors of the pork cutlets and add a touch of elegance.
Use a clean, white plate: Present the dish on a pristine, white plate to make the colors and textures of the pork cutlets stand out.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Place a small sprig of fresh italian parsley on top of the pork cutlets for a pop of green and a hint of freshness.
Add a side: Pair the pork cutlets with a small portion of lightly dressed mixed greens or a simple vegetable medley to balance the richness of the dish.
Use contrasting textures: Include a crispy element, such as a thin panko bread crumbs tuile, to add an extra layer of texture and sophistication to the presentation.
Highlight the ingredients: Arrange the pork cutlets in a way that showcases the layers of monterey jack cheese and dijon mustard, emphasizing the care and craftsmanship that went into the dish.
Finish with a touch of oil: Lightly drizzle a high-quality olive oil over the pork cutlets just before serving to enhance the flavor and add a subtle sheen to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Folded Pork Cutlets

Knife: To cut the pork tenderloin in half lengthwise.
Plastic wrap: To place the pork between and pound it to the desired thickness.
Meat mallet: To pound the pork to ⅛-inch thickness.
Cutting board: To provide a stable surface for cutting and pounding the pork.
Grater: To grate the monterey jack cheese onto the pork.
Mixing bowls: To hold the beaten egg and panko bread crumbs for dredging.
Shallow dishes: To place the flour, beaten egg, and bread crumbs for the breading process.
Tongs: To handle the pork cutlets while dredging and frying.
Frying pan: To cook the breaded pork cutlets.
Thermometer: To ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.
Spatula: To flip the cutlets while cooking.
Paper towels: To drain excess oil from the cooked cutlets.
Plate: To serve the finished pork cutlets.

Storing and Freezing Folded Pork Cutlets for Later

Once the pork cutlets have cooled to room temperature, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the cutlets fresh.
Place the wrapped cutlets in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when they were frozen.
When stored properly in the freezer, the folded pork cutlets can last for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw the frozen cutlets, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as this can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.
Once thawed, the cutlets should be consumed within 1-2 days for optimal taste and texture. Reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you plan to consume the pork cutlets within 3-4 days, you can store them in the refrigerator instead of freezing. Place the cooled cutlets in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating.

How To Reheat Leftover Folded Pork Cutlets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover folded pork cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the cutlets loosely with another sheet of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispy exterior while ensuring the inside remains moist and tender.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the folded pork cutlets on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cutlets to become tough and rubbery.
If you want to restore the crispy texture of the panko bread crumbs, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover cutlets and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until crispy and heated through. This method works best if the cutlets are at room temperature before reheating.
For a flavorful twist, slice the leftover folded pork cutlets and add them to a stir-fry or fried rice dish. The high heat and quick cooking time will help maintain the texture of the cutlets while incorporating them into a new meal.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cutlets in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. This method is perfect for maintaining the crispy exterior without the need for additional oil.

Interesting Trivia About Folded Pork Cutlets

A unique aspect of this folded pork cutlets recipe is the use of dijon mustard and monterey jack cheese as a filling, which adds a tangy and creamy flavor profile to the pork cutlets.

Is Making Folded Pork Cutlets at Home Cost-Effective?

This folded pork cutlets recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredient, pork tenderloin, is relatively affordable, and the additional ingredients like monterey jack cheese, dijon mustard, and panko bread crumbs are inexpensive and often already in the pantry. With a bit of olive oil for frying, the total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Folded Pork Cutlets Healthy or Unhealthy?

The folded pork cutlets recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The recipe calls for frying the cutlets in oil, which adds extra fat and calories to the dish.
The use of cheese and breading contributes to the overall calorie and fat content.
While pork tenderloin is a lean cut of meat, the preparation method and additional ingredients make this recipe less healthy than it could be.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Instead of frying, try baking the cutlets in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray the cutlets lightly with cooking spray and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Reduce the amount of cheese used or opt for a lower-fat cheese, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat monterey jack.
Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs or crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) instead of panko breadcrumbs to increase the fiber content and add a healthier twist to the breading.
Serve the cutlets with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad to balance out the meal and add more nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on the Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe

This folded pork cutlets recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of dijon mustard, monterey jack cheese, and fresh parsley adds a sophisticated depth of flavor. The folding technique ensures a juicy and tender interior, while the panko breading provides a satisfying crunch. Allowing the cutlets to rest before frying helps the coating adhere better, resulting in a beautifully golden crust. This dish is both elegant and comforting, making it perfect for a special dinner or an elevated weeknight meal.

Enhance Your Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy goodness of potatoes infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the savory and cheesy notes of your folded pork cutlets, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of elegance to your meal with grilled asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The bright, citrusy notes will cut through the richness of the pork, offering a refreshing contrast that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Butternut Squash Risotto: Indulge in the creamy, velvety texture of butternut squash risotto. This luxurious side dish, with its subtle sweetness and nutty undertones, will elevate your pork cutlets to a whole new level of gourmet delight.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: For a burst of freshness and crunch, serve a cranberry walnut salad. The tartness of the cranberries and the earthy crunch of the walnuts will provide a delightful contrast to the savory pork, making each bite a symphony of flavors.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Warm up your meal with a bowl of creamy tomato basil soup. The rich, tangy tomato base, infused with fragrant basil, will add a comforting and hearty element to your dining experience, perfectly complementing the folded pork cutlets.

Delicious Alternatives to Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe

Stuffed Chicken Breasts: Imagine tender chicken breasts filled with a delightful mixture of spinach, ricotta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. These are then breaded and baked to golden perfection. A perfect main course that pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.

Veal Milanese: This classic Italian dish features veal cutlets that are pounded thin, breaded, and fried until crispy. Served with a simple arugula salad and a squeeze of lemon, it’s a light yet satisfying meal that brings a touch of elegance to your dinner table.

Chicken Cordon Bleu: A timeless favorite, this dish involves chicken breasts stuffed with ham and Swiss cheese, then breaded and baked until the cheese is melted and the chicken is juicy. Serve with a side of steamed asparagus or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Parmesan-Crusted Pork Chops: These pork chops are coated in a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then baked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Pair with garlic mashed potatoes and green beans for a comforting and delicious dinner.

Chicken Kiev: A classic Eastern European dish, Chicken Kiev features chicken breasts stuffed with herb butter, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. The result is a crispy exterior with a rich, buttery filling. Serve with rice pilaf or buttered noodles for a satisfying meal.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Folded Pork Cutlets Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Begin by hollowing out large cremini mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and finely chopped spinach. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling paired with the earthy mushrooms creates a delightful bite-sized treat that will impress any guest.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette and rub them with a clove of garlic. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crispy bread and the fresh, tangy topping makes for a refreshing and satisfying appetizer that is perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a Decadent Treat: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate lava cake with a gooey center that oozes out as you take your first bite. This dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast between the warm, velvety chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream. Garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Tiramisu: Experience a Classic Italian Delight: Dive into layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone cheese with this traditional tiramisu. The delicate balance of coffee and cocoa flavors creates a sophisticated and satisfying end to any meal. Serve in individual glasses for a modern twist, and top with a dusting of cocoa powder and a few chocolate shavings. This dessert is perfect for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

Why trust this Folded Pork Cutlets Recipe:

This recipe for folded pork cutlets is a must-try for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The pork tenderloin is seasoned to perfection with kosher salt, black pepper, and a hint of cayenne pepper. The addition of dijon mustard and monterey jack cheese creates a delightful taste, while the panko bread crumbs provide a satisfying crunch. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking process, making it easy for anyone to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

If you'd like to share your experience making these Folded Pork Cutlets or have any tips to enhance the recipe, head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum.

FAQ:

How do I know when the pork cutlets are fully cooked?

You can tell the pork cutlets are done when the crust is nicely browned and the meat springs back when poked. It usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes per side. If you want to be extra sure, you can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 145°F.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While monterey jack cheese melts nicely and has a mild flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even gouda. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese.

Do I have to use panko bread crumbs?

Panko bread crumbs give a nice, crispy texture, but if you don’t have them, you can use regular bread crumbs. The texture might be a bit different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I prepare the cutlets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cutlets up to the breading stage and then refrigerate them for a few hours before frying. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even frying.

What can I serve with these pork cutlets?

These pork cutlets go great with a variety of sides. You can serve them with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some buttered noodles. The options are pretty endless!