Savory Pork Cordon Bleu with Melty Cheese
This Savory Pork Cordon Bleu is a delightful twist on the classic chicken version, featuring tender pork cutlets that cradle delicious ham and melted brick cheese. A crispy breadcrumb coating and the smoky flavor of bacon elevate this dish, making it perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal. The recipe allows for versatility with the choice of cheese, inviting you to experiment with different flavors and textures. Enjoy this hearty entrée paired with your favorite sides for a meal that's sure to impress.
6
Servings
400
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork cutlets
6 (butterflied)
Brick cheese
12 slices
Bacon
6 slices
Eggs
2 (beaten)
Unseasoned breadcrumbs
1 cup
Salt
1 teaspoon
Fresh ground black pepper
2 teaspoons
Olive oil
1/2 cup
Unsalted butter
1/2 cup
Ham
6 slices
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating a large skillet over medium heat.
2
Take each butterflied pork cutlet and lay one slice of ham and two slices of cheese on one side. Fold the other half of the cutlet over to cover the filling and secure the edges with toothpicks to prevent the filling from escaping.
3
In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In another dish, mix the breadcrumbs with salt and black pepper.
4
Dip each stuffed cutlet into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere.
5
In the heated skillet, combine olive oil and unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and bubble. Carefully place the breaded cutlets into the skillet, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
6
Once the cutlets are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess fat. Discard the toothpicks before serving.
Nutrition Information
25g
Fat
20g
Carbs
30g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Pork Cordon Bleu with Melty Cheese?
It is a savory twist on the classic chicken dish, featuring butterflied pork cutlets filled with ham and brick cheese, then breaded and pan-fried until crispy.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses six butterflied pork cutlets as the base for the dish.
Can I substitute the pork with chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of pork cutlets if you prefer the traditional version of Cordon Bleu.
What is brick cheese?
Brick cheese is a semi-hard cheese from Wisconsin that melts very well. If you cannot find it, you can substitute it with Swiss or Gruyere.
How do I butterfly a pork cutlet?
To butterfly a cutlet, slice it horizontally through the center, stopping just before you reach the other side, so it opens like a book.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while cooking?
Secure the edges of the folded pork cutlets with toothpicks and ensure the breadcrumb coating is thorough to seal the cheese inside.
Should I remove the toothpicks before serving?
Yes, always discard the toothpicks after cooking to ensure the dish is safe to eat.
What kind of ham is best for this recipe?
Any deli-sliced ham works well, but smoked ham adds a nice depth of flavor that complements the pork and bacon.
Can I bake the Pork Cordon Bleu instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, though frying in butter and oil provides a crispier texture.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 400 calories per serving in this recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The standard recipe is not gluten-free as it uses unseasoned breadcrumbs. To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What side dishes go well with this meal?
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus.
How long does it take to cook the cutlets?
The cutlets should be cooked for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.
Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones?
Absolutely! Panko breadcrumbs will give the pork an even crunchier exterior.
What is the purpose of using both olive oil and butter?
The olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning at high temperatures, while the butter provides a rich, savory flavor to the crust.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains 30 grams of protein.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can stuff and bread the cutlets a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry them.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
To maintain the crispiness, reheat the cutlets in an oven or air fryer until warmed through.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the amount of added salt in the breadcrumb mixture to keep the dish from being too salty.
Is bacon included in the filling?
Yes, the recipe includes 6 slices of bacon which add a smoky flavor to the savory filling.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What is the total fat content per serving?
There are 25 grams of fat per serving.
Can I freeze the stuffed cutlets?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded, uncooked cutlets. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator before pan-frying.
What temperature should the pork reach?
The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit to be considered safe and fully cooked.
Can I use pre-seasoned breadcrumbs?
Yes, if you use seasoned breadcrumbs, you can omit or reduce the extra salt and pepper mentioned in the recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, the combination of ham, melted cheese, and a crispy coating makes it a very kid-friendly meal.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version.
Why is it called Cordon Bleu?
Cordon Bleu translates to Blue Ribbon in French, symbolizing a high-quality dish traditionally made with meat wrapped around cheese.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
There are 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.