Crispy Pan-Fried Breaded Pork Cutlets: An Easy Family Favorite Recipe

Discover how to make the ultimate crispy breaded pork cutlets at home. Coated in simple cracker crumbs and expertly pan-fried on the stove until golden brown, these delicious cutlets offer a wonderfully comforting and satisfying meal. This classic pork cutlet recipe is incredibly quick, ready in under 30 minutes, and requires just four main ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Prepare to elevate your dinner table with these crunchy, flavorful cutlets!

For as long as I can remember, and certainly throughout my entire married life, this particular breaded pork cutlet recipe has been a staple in our family kitchen. It’s a treasured tradition, passed down from my grandmother to my mother, and then to me. These cutlets aren’t just a meal; they’re a taste of home, a comforting memory on a plate. Pork cutlets are an exceptionally smart choice for a family dinner – they are economical, lean, and readily available in the meat section of any grocery store. The magic truly happens when you add a quick, simple, and irresistibly crunchy breading made from cracker crumbs, transforming them into a delicious and budget-friendly meal that genuinely satisfies everyone at the table.

This cherished recipe is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut. While this content is sponsored, all the opinions expressed here, and my deep-rooted, lifelong love for their sauerkraut, are entirely my own and authentically shared.

Making the Best Breaded Pork Cutlets for Your Family

I’ve always wanted to share this incredibly easy and deeply satisfying family meal on my website. It’s one of those recipes that everyone asks for, but for various reasons, I simply hadn’t gotten around to it. That all changed when I was given the exciting opportunity to introduce you to two new products from Frank’s Kraut. The moment the request came in, I instantly knew what iconic dish I had to feature: my famous breaded pork cutlets!

When I prepare this classic pork cutlet recipe for dinner, I typically serve it alongside beloved comfort food staples like sweet corn, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich, savory gravy. But the true secret to enjoying these cutlets even more? The leftovers! They make an absolutely sensational sandwich. Simply layer a cooled cutlet onto regular sandwich bread or a soft bun, always with a generous slather of mustard. And for an elevated experience that truly transforms it? Top it generously with Frank’s Kraut! The combination of Pork & Kraut is a match made in culinary heaven, a flavor pairing that simply can’t be beaten.

Exciting New Flavors from Frank’s Kraut

By now, many of you know just how passionate I am about sauerkraut – and not just any sauerkraut, but specifically the absolute BEST sauerkraut available: Frank’s Kraut! It was a genuine honor to be among the first to receive and sample their brand-new flavors, even before they hit the market. Let me tell you, I absolutely adored BOTH of them, and I have no doubt that you will too!

Frank’s Mustard Kraut is a delightful blend of authentic homestyle sauerkraut infused with a vibrant dill pickle relish and a distinct mustard “zip.” This unique combination makes it an incredibly flavorful topping, perfect for classic hot dogs, savory bratwurst, or juicy burgers. Beyond the usual suspects, its tangy profile also makes it a truly fabulous accompaniment for pork dishes, including these crispy cutlets.

Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut offers a deliciously sweet and savory experience, boasting a rich BBQ twist thanks to brown sugar and a medley of carefully selected spices. This crunchy, authentic sauerkraut is an outstanding pairing for all your BBQ favorites and grilled meats, adding an unexpected layer of flavor and texture that will impress.

My entire family eagerly participated in a taste test of these exciting new kraut flavors, and we were truly divided on which one we liked better! If I absolutely had to choose, my personal preference leans towards the mustard kraut – I’ve always been firmly on “Team Mustard” anyway! Its zesty kick was absolutely amazing served atop the freshly fried pork cutlets, cutting through the richness beautifully.

My husband, however, declared the BBQ flavored kraut as his top choice. He found its sweet and smoky notes to be a perfect complement to the pork, creating a different but equally delicious flavor harmony.

Understanding Pork Cutlets: The Perfect Canvas for Crispy Breading

A pork cutlet is often referred to by another name: a pork cube steak. Essentially, a pork cutlet is a tenderized piece of pork, typically made from a lean cut of pork tenderloin or loin. The meat is meticulously pounded thin with a tenderizing mallet, which not only thins it out but also breaks down the muscle fibers, resulting in a remarkably tender piece of meat that cooks quickly and evenly. It’s important to note that pork chops and pork cutlets are not the same cut of meat; while both come from the pig, cutlets are specifically prepared to be thin and tender, making them ideal for quick cooking methods like pan-frying, especially when breaded for that irresistible crispy exterior.

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Breaded Pork Cutlets

The beauty of this crispy breaded pork cutlet recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring only a handful of readily available ingredients:

Pork Cutlets: The star of the show! Ensure your cutlets are already tenderized and pounded out to a consistent, relatively thin thickness. Many butchers prepare them this way, which saves you a step. Look for ones about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick for best results. If they’re thicker, you can easily pound them thinner at home between two sheets of plastic wrap.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings are all you need to enhance the natural flavor of the pork before breading. Freshly cracked black pepper and fine sea salt are preferred for optimal taste.
Eggs: These act as the crucial binder, creating a sticky surface for the cracker crumbs to adhere to. Two large eggs are typically sufficient for a batch of four cutlets.
Saltine Crackers: This is the secret to the incredibly crispy, light, and savory breading. One sleeve of saltine crackers, finely crushed, will provide ample coating. If saltines aren’t on hand, you can successfully substitute with Club crackers or Ritz crackers, both of which also yield a delicious, buttery crunch. Crush them thoroughly using a food processor for a fine, even crumb, or place them in a Ziploc bag and crush them with a rolling pin for a more rustic texture.
Vegetable Oil: For pan-frying, a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil, is ideal to achieve that perfect golden-brown crispness.

How to Make the BEST Crispy Breaded Pork Cutlets

Making these delectable breaded pork cutlets is surprisingly straightforward, even for novice cooks. Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal every time:

**1. Preparation is Key:** Begin by gathering all your ingredients and setting up your dredging station. You’ll need two shallow bowls: one for the whisked eggs and another for the crushed cracker crumbs. This organized approach makes the breading process quick and mess-free.

**2. Preheat Your Skillet:** Add enough vegetable oil to the bottom of a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) to generously coat it, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Place the skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot and shimmering, but not smoking, when you add the cutlets. This ensures an immediate crisp and prevents the breading from becoming greasy.

**3. Season and Dip:** Lightly pat each pork cutlet dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture – this is crucial for breading adhesion. Then, rub a light sprinkling of salt and pepper evenly into both sides of the pork cutlet. Next, carefully dip both sides of the seasoned cutlet into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.

**4. Crumb Coating:** Immediately after dipping in egg, press the cutlet firmly into the crushed cracker crumbs. Make sure to thoroughly coat both sides, gently pressing the crumbs onto the meat to ensure they stick well. The firmer you press, the better the breading will adhere during cooking.

**5. Pan-Frying Perfection:** Carefully place the breaded pork cutlets into the hot oil in your skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature and ensure even browning. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on the first side, or until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and becomes delightfully crispy. Then, flip the cutlet and brown the other side for another 5-6 minutes.

Since pork cutlets are typically thin, they cook relatively quickly, usually within 10-12 minutes total. The hot oil ensures that the inside cooks through while the outside crisps perfectly. To be absolutely certain, especially with pork, always check the internal temperature. Pork tenderloin cuts are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, measured with a reliable meat thermometer. Once cooked to perfection, transfer the cutlets to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil and maintain crispiness while you finish cooking the rest.

Serve these delicious breaded pork cutlets hot for the best flavor and texture. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re fantastic reheated gently in a skillet or air fryer to regain some crispness, or even cold in a sandwich!

Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!

If you’re already envisioning these crispy pork cutlets on your dinner table, make sure to save this recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever that craving for a quick, comforting, and delicious meal strikes!

Expert Tips: How to Keep Breading on Pork Cutlets

One of the most common questions when making breaded meats is how to ensure the coating sticks perfectly. Achieving a well-adhered breading on your pork cutlets isn’t difficult at all, as long as you adhere to a couple of simple, yet crucial, rules:

Pat Dry First: The first and most vital step is to ensure the meat is not too wet. Before you even think about dipping the pork cutlet into the egg wash, take a moment to dab both sides thoroughly with a paper towel. Excess moisture creates a barrier that prevents the egg and crumbs from binding effectively to the meat.
Immediate Dredging: Once you’ve dipped the cutlet into the beaten egg, don’t let it sit there. Immediately transfer it from the egg directly into your cracker crumbs (or flour, if that’s your chosen coating). Swiftly press the crumbs onto both sides of the cutlet. The egg acts as a temporary adhesive, and you want to capitalize on its stickiness before it has a chance to soak into the meat or drip away.
Hot Oil is Essential: Always ensure your oil is hot enough before you place the breaded cutlets in the skillet. If the oil isn’t hot, the breading will have time to absorb more oil and potentially become soggy or fall off. Hot oil immediately creates a crust, sealing the breading to the meat.

As a fantastic alternative for those looking to reduce oil or prefer a different cooking method, you can also prepare these crispy pork cutlets in an air fryer. Simply spray the breaded cutlets lightly with cooking spray and cook according to your air fryer’s instructions for breaded meats, typically around 375-400°F (190-200°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.

Elevate Your Meal: Serve with a Side of Frank’s Kraut!

This breaded pork cutlet recipe truly shines when paired with a side of Frank’s Kraut. Having a jar of their exceptional sauerkraut in your pantry makes meal prep incredibly simple. Just open the lid, serve, and enjoy! It’s not only a perfect flavor complement to the rich pork, but it’s also wonderfully good for you, adding a tangy, probiotic-rich element to your plate. The bright acidity of sauerkraut perfectly balances the richness of fried pork, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal that feels both comforting and fresh.

The Health Benefits of Sauerkraut: A Superfood Side

Beyond its delicious taste, sauerkraut is a nutritional powerhouse! This humble fermented cabbage comes packed with an impressive array of vitamins, including significant amounts of Vitamin C and Vitamin K. It’s naturally low in sugar and remarkably high in dietary fiber, making it a fantastic addition to a balanced diet. For centuries, sauerkraut has been utilized as a traditional folk remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly for digestive health. Modern science has increasingly validated many of these long-held traditions, recognizing sauerkraut as a rich source of beneficial probiotics. These live microorganisms are vital for a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn supports immune function, nutrient absorption, and overall well-being. Incorporating sauerkraut into your meals is an easy and delicious way to boost your intake of these essential nutrients and probiotics.

Celebrate Flavor with Frank’s Kraut: A Decades-Long Love Affair

My personal relationship with Frank’s Kraut extends far beyond a simple sponsorship; it spans quite a few years, indeed, decades! It’s the only sauerkraut my family has ever bought or eaten, a testament to its consistent quality and authentic flavor. Coming from Polish and German descent, with generations of sauerkraut lovers, that truly speaks volumes about Frank’s Kraut’s superiority, wouldn’t you agree?

Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of developing numerous creative sauerkraut recipes for Frank’s Kraut, showcasing its incredible versatility. My creations range from unique appetizers to unexpected desserts, proving that kraut is far more than just a hot dog topping. I’ve even coined my own term, “Reubenize,” which has become quite popular around here, to describe the art of infusing the iconic flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich into all sorts of dishes. Discover how to “Reubenize” everything for a truly unique culinary experience!

If you’re looking to explore more delicious ways to enjoy sauerkraut, you’re in luck! You can find a plethora of fantastic sauerkraut recipes right here on my blog. Additionally, the official Frank’s Kraut Website is an incredible resource for inspiration. I even maintain a dedicated Pinterest Board just for sauerkraut recipes! For year-round inspiration and creative ideas, be sure to follow Frank’s Kraut on their social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Convenient Packaging: Frank’s Kraut for Every Need

Frank’s Kraut is available in several convenient packaging options: traditional cans, versatile jars, and flexible poly bags. I must admit, I was particularly thrilled to see that these exciting new flavors, Mustard Kraut and Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut, are offered in jars! I often find myself reaching for the jars or the poly bags first due to their convenience and ease of storage.

The poly bags are incredibly practical. I often buy extra and pop them directly into the freezer. If you’ve never tried frozen kraut, you absolutely must – it’s surprisingly good and retains its texture wonderfully! Once defrosted, I use the amount I need for a recipe, and then transfer any remaining sauerkraut into a mason jar for storage in the refrigerator. The jars, typically found in the canned goods aisle, offer immediate convenience; once opened, simply store any unused portion in the fridge. This eliminates the extra step of transferring it to your own mason jar, making it super user-friendly.

If you’re a devoted sauerkraut enthusiast like us, be sure to delve into my comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Sauerkraut! It’s packed with everything you need to know about this incredible fermented food, from its history to its health benefits and countless culinary uses.

More Kraut Recipes to Love:

Baked Chocolate Kraut Donuts: An unexpected and surprisingly delicious treat!
Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin with Sauerkraut Stuffing: A savory and impressive main course.
Grilled Polish Sausage & Sauerkraut: A classic pairing perfect for grilling season.
Instant Pot Beer Cheese Soup with Kraut & Kielbasa: A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal.
Creamy Kraut and Mushroom Noodles: A comforting and unique pasta dish.
Sauerkraut Salad: A refreshing and tangy side dish for any meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab that jar of Frank’s Kraut (perhaps one of the delicious new flavors!) and let’s make some incredibly tasty, crispy breaded pork cutlets tonight!

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Breaded pork cutlets in a white serving dish

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Print Recipe

Breaded Pork Cutlets

Simple to make crispy breaded pork cutlets are coated in cracker crumbs and pan-fried on the stove until golden brown. Crunchy breaded pork cutlets make a wonderfully comforting meal, and are ready in under 30 minutes, requiring only 4 ingredients.

Prep Time5 mins

Cook Time15 mins

Total Time20 mins

Course: Pork

Cuisine: American

Keyword: breaded pork cutlet, cracker crumbs, crispy, eggs, pan fried, pork cutlet, saltine crackers, what is a pork cutlet

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 530 kcal

Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

KitchenAid Renewed 3.5-Cup Food Chopper (useful for crushing crackers)
KitchenAid Gourmet Rolling Pin, One Size, Red (alternative for crushing crackers)
Whisks for Cooking, 3 Pack Stainless Steel Whisk
Large Skillet (cast iron preferred)
Shallow Bowls (2)
Meat Thermometer

Ingredients

4 pork cutlets (about 1 1/2 pounds, tenderized and pounded thin)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 large eggs (whisked)
1 sleeve of saltine crackers (finely crushed)
Vegetable oil (for pan-frying)

Instructions

In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together until well combined. In a second shallow bowl, add the finely crushed crackers.
Gently dab any excess moisture from the pork cutlets using a paper towel. This step is crucial for the breading to adhere properly.
Add enough vegetable oil to generously cover the bottom of a large skillet (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep) and place it over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up until shimmering, but not smoking.
Lightly sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each pork cutlet, ensuring even seasoning.
Dip one pork cutlet into the whisked egg, making sure both sides are fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
Immediately transfer the egg-dipped cutlet to the bowl with crushed crackers. Press the cutlet firmly into the crumbs, coating both sides thoroughly. Ensure a good, even layer of breading.
Carefully place the breaded pork cutlet into the hot oil in the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry for approximately 5-6 minutes on the first side, or until the breading is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Then, flip the pork cutlet and cook for another 5-6 minutes on the second side until equally golden and crispy.
The pork cutlets are done when they are crispy and brown on both sides and their internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F when measured with a meat thermometer. Serve hot immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Tips for making the breading stick:

Ensure the cutlets are free of excess moisture by dabbing them with a paper towel before dipping in egg.
Dip immediately from the egg wash into the cracker crumbs; do not let the cutlet rest in the egg for too long.
Always place breaded cutlets into HOT oil to create an immediate crust and prevent sticking or sogginess.
For a lighter option, these can be air-fried. Lightly spray breaded cutlets with cooking spray and air fry at 375-400°F (190-200°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

Nutrition